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Preview by: Jack Foley
JOHNNY Cash biopic, Walk The Line, starring Joaquin Phoenix,
is to receive its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival,
it has been confirmed.
The film, directed by James (Copland) Mangold, explores the early
years of the music legend and the woman who would forever change
his life, June Carter (played by Reese Witherspoon).
Like last year's Ray biopic, Walk The Line is something of a
labour of love for Mangold who developed the project over seven
years with the co-operation of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash.
The bulk of the film takes place in the period of the mid-50s
when rock 'n' roll exploded from a tiny studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
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It charts Cash's meteoric rise to
fame, culminating with his emergence as the 'Man in Black' at
his historic concert at Folsom Prison in 1968.
It is due for release in America in November and is seen as a
potential Oscar contender for both Phoenix and Witherspoon.
The film is also notable for featuring musical performances from
Phoenix as Johnny Cash, as well as performances from notable musicians
including country and blues artist, Shelby Lynne, who plays John
Cash's mother.
Rock and blues artist Waylon Payne will sing in the role of Jerry
Lee Lewis, while country/rock artist Shooter Jennings portrays
Johnny's father, Waylon Jennings.
Artist of the moment, Johnathan Rice also makes his feature film
debut as Roy Orbison, while singer/songwriter Tyler Hilton portrays
the young Elvis Presley.
Speaking about the film, Phoenix has confessed to being nervous
about taking on the challenge and it remains to be seen whether
he can do the music icon justice.
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