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The film’s title is simply “June,” without a surname. This deliberate choice by director Kristen Vaurio serves to emphasize the fact that June Carter Cash, the subject of the documentary, has long been overlooked and overshadowed by her husband Johnny. The common perception of June as a devoted wife who saved Cash from his demons is challenged by the strong and humorous woman depicted in the film, who carved out her own path as an artist. Reese Witherspoon, who portrayed June in the movie Walk the Line, points out with frustration that it was actually June who co-wrote Cash’s famous song “Ring of Fire” with Merle Kilgore.
Carter was a member of the prestigious Carter family, known for their contributions to country music. She began touring during her teenage years. Although she may not have been the most talented vocalist in her family, her charm and passionate singing style earned her praise from country music icons like Dolly Parton, who is featured in this documentary. In old video clips, we witness June playfully imitating a Southern accent and having fun in front of the camera during the early stages of her career.
Despite the strict expectations of the conservative country scene, she refused to conform. (The traditional attire for women during her regular performances on a country music show was gingham dresses, giving off a “homemaker” vibe.) After ending her first marriage in the mid-50s, June relocated to New York to pursue acting and hung out with icons like James Dean and Marlon Brando. While she was still married to her second husband, she found herself drawn to Johnny Cash, but was initially intimidated by him. This led her to pen the song “Ring of Fire,” which conveys a dark and troubled message about love: “It burns, burns, burns.” After divorcing her second husband, she presented Cash with an ultimatum: stay sober for six months and I will consider marrying you.
This movie is respectful, but it does touch on the myth of the Johnny and June love story. One of Johnny’s daughters from his previous marriage says, “June didn’t save my dad. You can’t save someone from addiction.” June’s daughter expresses frustration at her mother’s portrayal of being content as Mrs. Johnny Cash after their marriage; the reality was more nuanced. Ultimately, the most insightful perspectives on the couple and their enduring but complicated and occasionally difficult marriage come from their family, not the country music community.
Source: theguardian.com
