| Fans of the book by LA Times columnist Steve Lopez (who got his start at the Philadelphia Inquirer) won’t be disappointed. In fact it is a wonderful compliment to the text. And both Robert Downey Jr. (as Lopez) and Jamie Foxx (as Nathaniel) bring the characters to life.
While the book and screenplay touch on the issues of mental illness and the homeless, the film is much, much more. This true story of how a chance meeting between a journalist and a homeless man deeply impacts both will move even the most incorrigible cynic.
| Even if you have read the book you will enjoy this. Jamie Foxx (Nathaniel Ayers) and Robert Downey Jr. (Steve Lopez) are perfectly cast in the leading roles. The amazing thing about this “true to the book” screenplay is that you not only get to witness the interaction of the reporter and the musician but you get to hear the music. There is one scene where Nathaniel and Lopez attend a rehearsal at Disney Hall. The special effects help us to visualize just what Nathaniel may be experiencing when he hears a full orchestra; that, in itself, is worth the price of admission.
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