Ray
Performance & Direction: Ray Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Ray (2004) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.4/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Ray features a noteworthy lineup led by Jamie Foxx . Supported by the likes of Kerry Washington and Regina King , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Ray
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2004, Ray is a Drama, Music film directed by Taylor Hackford. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jamie Foxx.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. Born on a sharecropping plantation in Northern Florida, Ray Charles went blind at seven. Inspired by a fiercely independent mom who insisted he make his own way, He found his calling and his gift behind a piano keyboard. Touring across the Southern musical circuit, the soulful singer gained a reputation and then exploded with worldwide fame when he pioneered coupling gospel and country together. The screenplay takes time to develop Jamie Foxx's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Jamie Foxx's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Thematic Depth
The film delves into universal human experiences including love, loss, identity, and belonging. It holds up a mirror to society, asking difficult questions about morality, choice, and consequence.
What Works & What Doesn't
✅ Strengths
- Solid execution of genre conventions
- Engaging moments that showcase the creators' vision
- Competent performances from the cast
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Some narrative choices that feel predictable
- Occasional pacing lulls in the middle act
Ending Explained: Ray
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Taylor Hackford, Ray resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Jamie Foxx, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Ray reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Ray?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Jamie Foxx or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Box Office Collection: Ray
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $40.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $124.7M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Ray Budget
The estimated production budget for Ray is $40.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Ray
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Where to Watch Ray Online?
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2004 AdvisoryWondering about Ray age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Ray is 152 minutes (2h 32m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.4/10, and global performance metrics, Ray is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2004 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ray worth watching?
Ray is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.4/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Ray parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Ray identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Ray?
The total duration of Ray is 152 minutes, which is approximately 2h 32m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
