"Walk the Line" is one of those films whose success depends entirely on the performances of the actors. Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon are brought in to portray two icons in the world of music whose personal lives are just as fascinating as their work on stage. Fortunately, they succeed on every level, just as Russell Crowe (Phoenix's rival from 2000's "Gladiator") and Renee Zellweger did in the character-driven "Cinderella Man" earlier that year.



The music of the late Johnny Cash (Phoenix) is timeless, and so is his story. He comes from a working-class southern family, joins the Air Force and becomes a terrible salesman. His ambition was music, and he pursued it despite objections from his family and his wife. He succeeds and becomes a nationwide phenomenon, touring with the likes of Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis when they first started out. The movie covers the highs and the unbelievable lows.



The bulk of the film is set in the time period from 1954-1965. It focuses on Cash's rise to prominence and his pursuit of the love of his life, singer/entertainer June Carter (Witherspoon), even if he was already married with children. Phoenix shows Cash as a talented but troubled man, while Witherspoon delivers a duel performance, one as a sassy June Carter when she's on stage and a compassionate one everywhere else. They work together stunningly, and the rest of the cast is great as well.



The love story becomes the main focus of the film, which would be a disappointment if it wasn't for the chemistry and brilliant performances of the two. Unfortunately, the second half of Cash's life is summed up in a paragraph at the end of the movie, which doesn't do the man justice. Someone stated that it's the only musical biopic that deserves a sequel, and that person is right on the money.



Regardless, the pacing of the film and the development of the characters is excellent. Even if you've never heard of Johnny Cash before he released his cover of Nine Inch Nails' "Hurt" a few years back, it's really captivating. Even the performances of some of his greatest hits can appeal to anyone, from the indie rock aficionado to the death metalhead. Phoenix and Witherspoon do their own singing, with incredibly impressive results.



As stated before, the main focus of the film becomes the love story. It's a rather unique and alluring one, spanning many years and tons peaks and valleys. It shows both the positive and destructive aspects of love, and you watch the effect of the relationship on Cash and Carter. Too bad the end of the love story is the end of the film.



"Walk The Line" is a great movie. The story is full of bliss and tragedy and really makes you appreciate the work of Johnny Cash. It may be a little too serious for some people, but it's still a splendid film that anyone can enjoy.