Walk the Line (2005)

I'm just back from a preview of this Johnny Cash biopic and it probably would help if  I were a fan of his music which is quite OK but no more to me.  The surprise was that the movie held my attention for the two hours plus running time despite the formulaic story of bad boy musician finally gives up the pills and booze for love.  Joaquin Phoenix really wears the role and despite never having warmed to him in the past, I can't think of another actor who could have played the part with such uncanny success.  The real treat was Reese Witherspoon playing his love, June Carter, whom he met when they were both married and who stood by him through the bad times.  The fact that they both did their own singing rather than just mouthing the songs helped make this film and the chemistry between the two leads when they were performing was perfectly believable.  I always considered her a pretty nifty young actress and am pleased to see her talent being recognized this award season.