The Soloist

Both Steve Lopez's L.A. Times columns and book on troubled musical genius Nathaniel Anthony Ayers received incredible interest from the public. Unfortunately, perhaps due to poor distribution, or in the mind of some critics, poor direction, the movie based on this fascinating and important story has not fared as well. Few people deny the power of the performances from two great actors, Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx. Our audience were extremely moved by the film and and the importance of the story.

When Steve Lopez came upon Nathaniel Anthony Ayers playing beautiful music from a 2-stringed violin he could not have foreseen that not only would this make a fascinating story but also ineveitably alter both of their lives. Nathaniel was a homeless person suffering from schizophrenia but had at one time been a student at Julliard.

The movie was made while the book was in progress and as is inevitable the director, Joe Wright (Pride and Prejudice, Atonement) and the screenwriter, Susannah Grant (Erin Brockavich) made a number of changes in content and chronology.

Check the excellent production notes on the film.

Also check the video from 60 minutes with Morley Safer.

Julian D.