UNIVERSAL CITY, CA. (Universal Pictures/ www.universalstudios.com) - Universal Pictures' critically acclaimed "Ray" - the never-before-told, musical biographical drama of American legend
Ray Charles - opened with an impressive showing at the U.S. box office over the past weekend, earning a three-day total of $20,039,730. With 2,006 playdates, "Ray" took in a strong $9,990 per screen average, the highest of any of the top ten films in the market.
"For a two-and-a-half hour bio-pic that every other studio in town passed on, this is a stunning achievement and a testament to the filmmakers, the cast and the studio's marketing and distribution teams," said Nikki Rocco, president, distribution, Universal Pictures. "From the minute we saw it, everyone here believed that Taylor Hackford's beautifully-made film with Jamie Foxx's electrifying performance deserved to reach a wide audience. And thanks to the critics, who have given the film rave reviews, and audiences, with this weekend's fantastic exit polls, we are on our way."
Featuring a remarkable performance from Jamie Foxx in the central role and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Taylor Hackford, "Ray" follows the inspiring story of a one-of-a-kind genius. Born in a poor town in Georgia, Ray Charles went blind at the age of seven shortly after witnessing his younger brother's accidental death. Inspired by a fiercely independent mother who insisted he make his own way in the world, Charles found his calling and his gift behind a piano keyboard.
Touring across the Southern musical circuit, the soulful singer gained a reputation and then exploded with worldwide fame when he pioneered incorporating gospel, country, jazz and orchestral influences into his inimitable style. As he revolutionized the way people appreciated music, he simultaneously fought segregation in the very clubs that launched him and championed artists' rights within the corporate music business. "Ray" provides an unflinching portrait of Charles' musical genius as he overcomes drug addiction while transforming into one of this country's most beloved performers.
Surrounding Foxx is an impressive ensemble cast that features Kerry Washington, Clifton Powell, Harry Lennix, Terrence Dashon Howard, Larenz Tate, Richard Schiff, Aunjanue Ellis, Sharon Warren and Regina King.
A Universal Pictures / Bristol Bay Production, "Ray" is directed by Taylor Hackford ("An Officer and a Gentleman"), with a screenplay by James L. White from a story by Hackford and White; it is produced by Hackford, Stuart Benjamin, Howard Baldwin and Karen Baldwin.
