Sunday, 10pm, BBC2
“Walk the Line” (2005) is one of those films that somehow straddles the line between biopic and ballad, much like Johnny Cash himself straddled the thin divide between country, rock, and that unmistakable "outlaw" aesthetic. Directed by James Mangold, the film traces the life of the Man in Black, focusing on his rise to fame, his turbulent relationship with June Carter, and his struggle with addiction. Joaquin Phoenix steps into Cash’s boots with a brooding charm, while Reese Witherspoon’s spirited portrayal of June Carter earned her an Oscar. The chemistry between the leads crackles, and for those unfamiliar with Cash’s story, the film serves as both an introduction and an intimate portrait of his most tumultuous years.
Now, let's talk soundtracks – because that's where “Walk the Line” hits the right notes, quite literally. Rather than relying on Cash’s original recordings, Mangold made the bold move to have Phoenix and Witherspoon perform all the tracks themselves. And you know what? It works. Phoenix growls his way through classics like “Ring of Fire” and “I Walk the Line” with such conviction that you’d almost believe he’s channelling Cash from beyond. Witherspoon’s vocals on “Jackson” bring that playful yet powerful dynamic that made the real-life Carter-Cash duets so irresistible. T Bone Burnett, the genius behind the music production, ensures the authenticity of the era while giving the performances just enough polish.
Collectors, take note – the official soundtrack is a gem. Released alongside the film, it features these reimagined versions rather than archival recordings, which makes it more of a tribute than a greatest hits collection. If you’re the type to dissect liner notes, you’ll appreciate the raw quality and dedication in every track. And yes, it did win the Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack, proving once and for all that even without Cash’s voice, his legacy sings on.
- Paul Allen