- Film Review
- Reviewed By Brian Pendreigh
-
4 out of 5
Joaquin Phoenix gives a remarkable performance as country-rock legend Johnny Cash in director James Mangold's impressive biopic. The film begins with Cash's legendary live recording at Folsom Prison in 1968, flashing back to his childhood and feelings of guilt over the accidental death of his brother, then picks up the story with Cash writing songs in the air force, before hitting the road with fellow Sun recording artists Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis. Joining them on tour is June Carter (Reese Witherspoon), the woman whom Cash pursued for years despite the fact that both were already married. Phoenix successfully captures the spirit of an artist who writes songs and sings because it is the one thing he does well, but who also drinks and pops pills out of frustration and guilt. He needs the love of a good woman to save him, and Phoenix and Witherspoon (who won an Oscar) convincingly bring the relationship between Johnny and June to life without lapsing into impersonation. This classic tale will be largely familiar to fans, but with both stars also contributing their own vocals, it may now bring the couple - and their music - to a new audience.
Plot Summary
Oscar-winning musical biographical drama starring Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon. John R Cash emerges from humble farm beginnings to become country-and-western legend Johnny Cash. But the road to stardom for the "Man in Black" is not without hardship and heartbreak, although salvation appears in his dependable soulmate, June Carter.
Cast and crew
Cast
- John R Cash
- Joaquin Phoenix
- June Carter
- Reese Witherspoon
- Vivian Cash
- Ginnifer Goodwin
- Ray Cash
- Robert Patrick
- Sam Phillips
- Dallas Roberts
- Luther Perkins
- Dan John Miller
- Marshall Grant
- Larry Bagby III
- Carrie Cash
- Shelby Lynne
- Elvis Presley
- Tyler Hilton
- Jerry Lee Lewis
- Waylon Malloy Payne
- Waylon Jennings
- Shooter Jennings
- Roy Orbison
- Johnathan Rice
Crew
- Director
- James Mangold
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