The Soloist is a very inspiring film, similar in nature to “Resurrecting the Champ”, yet quite different. The movie is based on a true story, about a reporter who befriends a homeless, gifted musician. The movie provides a view on schizophrenia, and how sometimes all you can do is be supportive. It also focuses on the theme of love, and how it can relate to music. Nathaniel Ayers loves music so intensely, it is the only thing he does in his life. Music is an outlet of escape, and The Soloist shows that classical music can provide a higher spiritual connection through the practice of truly listening and appreciating it. The movie is based on a true story, making it that much more powerful of a film.
Unfortunately, many people suffer from various stages of mental disease; schizophrenia being one of the most common. Nathaniel suffered from hearing voices in his head, which made him very fearful. Because he heard voices when he was isolated, Ayers refused to live in a home, and spent his days playing the violin outside in Los Angeles. This is where he met Steve Lopez, a journalist for the LA Times. Lopez was very concerned for Ayers’ mental health, so he tried to get Nathaniel’s consent to receive treatment for his condition. Nathaniel broke down, and strongly refused any treatment. In the movie, Lopez gets a strong statement from his ex-wife, that the best he can do is show support to Ayers, and to be a true friend. The movie ends on that note, showing Lopez being a true friend to Ayers. Sometimes the best thing you can do for someone else, is to be a true friend. Having a friend can make difficult situations in life more bearable. Having a friend can help make happy times seem even more joyful! Friendship is a true gift from God, that is one of the greatest aspects of the whole human being experience. We can’t fly, we can’t read minds, but we can have friends. It’s not quite a power, but a friend can help with any situation in life, and The Soloist is a prime example of how a true friendship can transform anyone’s life.
Another aspect of the film, is Nathaniel Ayers’ strong love for music. Music is a pathway to a higher being. When we are listening to music, our worries seem to dissolve, and they are replaced by emotions from the particular song we listen to. The Soloist focuses on Classical music. Unlike Rap, Rock, Jazz, Metal, Techno, etc.. All of these types of music force different emotions, positive and negative. But none of them can touch a person quite like classical. In The Soloist, there is a scene where a beautiful panorama of colors is displayed to the viewer, which is the directors perception of what happens to our spiritual beings while listening to classical. Classical music transports you to a level close to God. About as close as music can take you. Nathaniel Ayers’ didn’t just enjoy classical music. It was the only thing that took him away from his problems, away from his fears. It moved him to a place which words cannot describe. It can only be observed through the look in his eyes in “The Soloist”.
Love is the most powerful human emotion, and it can be felt through our relationships. It can also be felt when listening to music. The Soloist shows both of these situations, acted out beautifully by Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx. It is a true story of friendship, music, and love. Sometimes the greatest thing you can do, is to lend your support. Music can transport you anywhere, no matter what situation you are in. Use it to your advantage, and there is no knowing where it can take you.
