MIPA Workshop Blogs

A Movie Well Worth the “Cash”

Erin McClue

Folsom Prison inmates’ feet pounding the beat of the classic song “Walk the Line” within their cement confines.  And one man with a musical inspiration like no other.  This it the opening scene of the Johnny Cash life and times production called Walk the Line.  The use of time lining added a much needed personal touch to the film seeing as Cash, in the public eye, was just a attractive man in all black, we got a glimpse of his aspirations and obstacles before fame, and how It affected his entire life. 

I honestly cannot think of a better match to mimic Johnny Cash than Joaquin Phoenix.  Though I hadn’t seen any of his previous work, he presented him self in a way that truly sold the character and persuaded you to feel emotions that most actors cannot acquire. 

On the other side, Reese Witherspoons character was a two way street for me.  I felt as though right when I was about to believe her character, she would slip and all of a sudden her character seemed forced, and her accent high pitched and fake.  Other parts I thought she was brilliant, perfectly executing June Carter.  Being one who has seen most of her work, I feel she will be forever stereotyped as the romantic comedy actress, but I can admire her for stepping out of the romance film box.

My favorite aspect of this film was the direction and camera work.  I felt that every scene had a purpose as opposed to most films that usually have a point of distraction that stray away from the overall idea.  The story perfectly built on itself without getting too overwhelming.

Overall the acting in the movie had its outliers with Joaquin soaring about expectations and Reese keeping her mediocre style of love story abilities intact, but I truly believe it encaptured everything Cash stood for, and everything he was about.  This movie is well worth the cash.