DVD: THE SOLOIST

DVD: THE SOLOIST
Directed by Joe Wright
Starring Robert Downey Jr, Jamie Foxx, Catherine Keener
Shock Entertainment
2017
Reviewed by Shane Pinnegar
6 ½ /10

Jamie Foxx delivers a striking performance as Nathaniel Ayers, a homeless man ‘discovered’ playing 2-string violin on the sidewalk by LA Times columnist Steve Lopez. Based on a true story, Ayers was a musical prodigy who developed schizophrenia and ended up living on the street, until Lopez tried to help him back on his feet, with only partial success.

Foxx and Downey Jr are totally committed to their roles and deliver strong showings through a fascinating story – but the film itself suffers from narrative problems.

Originally released in 2009 and based on events of 2005, Ayers’ story is compelling, but the film itself meanders, lacking a strong enough leader to pull all the strings taut enough to turn good into great.

That’s my opinion, anyway, though I will admit I have read a dozen reviews online where people have said this narrative and this film speak directly to the schizophrenia experience.

Category: Movie & Theatre Reviews