You know, sometimes a movie sticks with you because of the music. Sometimes, a movie sticks with you because of the performances. This movie has kind of done both for me.
I borrowed this one from my co-worker too. I had to watch it because it was an Oscar movie. See the Oscar group for more on this movie. (That and the fantasy group are kind of my babies on Spout; I'm trying to generate interest...)
I really liked this movie. Like Ray (2004), it follows a sort of flashback storyline, beginning with Johnny Cash's childhood and following his early years through the period of his drug addiction and utmost popularity. While the movie is about Johnny Cash, its primary focus is about his courtship with June Carter. And really, it's just one of those American love stories that's so timeless, both in real life and on the silver screen.
Reese Witherspoon won the Best Actress award for her portrayal of June Carter. She deserved accolades for sure; it was easy to suspend my disbelief. Her performance had a lot of heart and a lot of guts to it, and that's just what June Carter was all about. I think she shined through in this performance and was absolutely fantastic.
Similarly, Joaquin Phoenix did an excellent job. While his singing voice was not a dead ringer, his mannerisms and affectations were. I really felt like he was the younger Man in Black. I almost wish he had won for Best Actor, for which he was nominated.
In fact, I think the movie itself was well put together and like the subject line says, Ring of Fire and Walk the Line have been playing incessantly in my head since last night when I watched the movie. I give it a 10 out of 10 (it was a masterpiece!).
The test: will she by buying it? The answer: well, I'm on the fence. I liked it alot, but would I watch it repeatedly? I'm not sure. So, I'll think about it. I'd recommend others buying it if they wanted to though. It was marvelous.