Arts

Film: Ray

I seem to be watching more and more biographical films these days. With each there's one measure that comes to mind: does the portrayal get me closer to the person?

While Ray shows some of the grittier aspects of Ray Charles' life, I came away feeling slightly manipulated. The film follows the familiar curve of fame, soaring high before a fall then back to 'unprecedented' stratospheric success. Maybe we only ever see this arc because we need the happily-ever-after.

This is a minor point though. The latter part of the film is packed with such turbulent emotion I defy anyone to watch it without a lump in their throat.

Whether or not I know Ray Charles better now, through the telling I know more of our world and my place in it. Maybe that's the better metric.