Watched two movies recently, one's just ok, the other one's just great.
RAY - Normally, I don't really pay much attention to what the critics or Oscar pundits say but this movie about the life, music and times of the late, great Ray Charles, really impresses. Didn't realize the depth of Ray Charles' talent as well as his long struggle about deep-seated guilt (his brother's death) and heavy heroin addiction until I saw the movie. The soundtrack is equally great with great originals (staples like "I Can't Stop Loving You") as well as covers (familiar hits like "Hit the Road Jack", "You Don't Know Me" and "Georgia On My Mind"). Jamie Foxx completely transformed into Ray Charles into this movie. Absolutely astounding. Whether he wins the Oscar or not, he's a winner in my book. director Taylor Hackford ("An Officer and a Gentleman", "Against All Odds") delivers another great film. BTW, Foxx also impresses with his singing. Check it out.
NATIONAL TREASURE - Taut thriller though conspiracy theory movies aren't necessarily breaking new grounds.
