If you have never seen the incredible biographical drama/romance film about the legendary Johnny Cash's early life, you are missing out. I am not a big country fan, but after watching this movie a few (and by few I mean a few hundred) times, I found myself downloading Johnny Cash songs onto my laptop and buying one of his CDs to leave in my car. While the film does include awesome covers of hit songs performed by Joaquin Phoenix, there are so many unique elements that make the film (and Johnny's life) stand out. With Mr. Cash's 84th birthday just a few days away, now is the perfect time to expose yourself to the fantastic movie about Johnny Cash's life. Trust me, you will absolutely love "Walk The Line," and here is why. (Caution: spoilers ahead.)
1. You will be in awe by the family issues John bravely lives and deals with from a young age.
If you think his fame came from pure joy and bliss, you are dead wrong. Towards the beginning of the film one of the most heart-breaking scenes of the entire movie happens: John's older brother, Jack, dies from a sawing accident and their alcoholic father yells, "You know what you are? Nothing." John's mother defends John, saying this isn't his fault. John didn't do this to Jack, and in reply John's father yells, "The Devil did this! He took the wrong son!"
2. You will captivatingly watch John's songwriting and self-confidence develop, and find yourself cheering him on throughout the process.
For instance, here you can see the fear in his eyes as he introduces himself on stage for the first time.
3. Your heart will go through mixed emotions when John falls in love with Vivian.
4. Just to fall out of love.
5. And fall in love again, this time with June Carter.
6. You will better understand what led John to battle his addictions to drugs and alcohol.
Which will give you an entirely new perspective on his life and the meanings of his songs.
7. You'll grow to be thankful for June and her parents, who later help him become sober.
8. Your heart will break as John makes terrible mistakes.
9. But you will be left breathless watching John's incredible performances of hit songs such as "Get Rhythm," "Jackson" and "Folsom Prison Blues."
10. The life lessons John learns, often times the hard way, may motivate you to get through your hard times.
11. Because if John could overcome the grief of losing his brother, the verbal abuse of his father, and the terrible addiction to drugs so that the rest of his life could be happy, you can too!
12. John's early life, as shown in this film, teaches the audience that life may not be easy all the time, but the struggles do make you stronger. You can overcome anything.
By the end of the movie, you will find yourself laughing, smiling, and maybe even tearing up. I promise you that "Walk The Line" is worth the the hours and 33 minutes. Enjoy my all time favorite movie -- it may surprise you and become your favorite movie, too!
