Ray

Synopsis:

Ray is the never-before-told story of musical legend Ray Charles. Born in a poor town in Georgia, Ray Charles went blind at the age of seven, shortly after witnessing his younger brother's accidental death.

Inspired by a fiercely independent mother who insisted he make his own way in the world, Charles found his calling and his gift behind a piano keyboard. Touring across the Southern musical circuit, the soulful singer gained a reputation and then exploded with worldwide fame when he incorporated gospel, country, jazz and orchestral influences into his unique style.

As he revolutionized the way people appreciated music, he simultaneously fought segregation in the very clubs that launched him and championed artists' rights within the corporate music business. "Ray" provides an unflinching portrait of Charles' musical genius as he overcomes drug addiction while transforming into one of the world's most beloved performers.

What the critics are saying:

"He may bring the house down behind the piano, but it's in the quieter moments that he really rocks, inspiring empathy with barely perceptible gestures. Here's a rare case when the actor truly makes the film - Foxx will make your heart sing."
- Stella Papamichael, BBCi Film

"The movie would be worth seeing simply for the sound of the music and the sight of Jamie Foxx performing it. That it looks deeper and gives us a sense of the man himself is what makes it special."
- Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

"Hackford has made a film that -- like Charles' music itself -- breaks your heart, makes it brim with joy and ultimately fills it with a deep belief in beauty and salvation."
- Paul Clinton, CNN