Ray (2004)

Having basically revolutionized the institution of rhythm and blues and invented soul music in the process, American musical pioneer Ray Charles, blind since childhood, might have been frustrated at being unable to see Ray (2004), the movie based upon his life, but he certainly would have enjoyed hearing the picture. Graced with a soundtrack every bit as vibrant, indomitable, joyous, bluesy, and dramatically infectious as Mr. Charles’s own rags-to-Grammys story, this biographical celebration of natural-born genius is a vividly acted recreation of time and place that is every bit as spine-tingling and uplifting with the eyes closed as when they are open.