‘Ray’ hits all the right keys

JOHN DEPKO

Ray Charles was the consummate crossover musical artist of our time.

He combined elements of gospel, blues, rock, jazz and country into an

ever-changing mix of nonstop hits that spanned five decades of

American pop culture. Add to this success story his dirt-poor

background and the tragic death of his younger brother in childhood.

Blend in Ray’s descent into blindness, the brutal reality of Southern

racism and his later heroin addiction and you have the makings of an

epic tale that would be hard to believe if it weren’t all true.

Jamie Foxx catapults himself into the realm of superstar actors

with a magnificent performance that rivals the best ever seen on

screen. He doesn’t just play Ray Charles; he becomes Ray Charles.

Foxx is absolutely certain to be nominated for best actor for his

mesmerizing work of genius as the troubled American icon. And there

are several supporting actors and actresses in this film who are also

worthy of Oscar nominations.

The screenplay for “Ray” covers so many events over so much time

that it might be compared to a real-life “Forrest Gump” script. With

its outstanding direction, cinematography and musical score, this

film could garner Oscar nominations in all those categories, as well.

Ray Charles is clearly presented with all of his glorious talents and

terrible flaws. Uplifting and disturbing in equal measure, it

entertains, emotionally captivates and enthralls on many levels.

Without a doubt, “Ray” is a worthy contender for this year’s best

picture award. It deserves to be seen by the widest possible

audience. Don’t miss it.

* JOHN DEPKO is a Costa Mesa resident and a senior investigator

for the Orange County public defender’s office.