Before I saw this movie, I had never heard of Ralph “Petey” Greene – I think the same would be true of a lot of people.

But now that I’ve seen his life story, I’d like to learn more.

Talk to Me tells the true story of Greene, an ex-con who was a DJ in prison, and upon his release ends up becoming a popular radio personality in Washington, D.C. As his popularity expands due to his crass, but bluntly truthful style of talk, he does stand up comedy and television, but more than that – he comes a community activist. In fact, he is credited with calming the city down from the riots that broke out following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Don Cheadle plays the title role with complete commitment. He’s funny, crass, obnoxious and emotional all in the same breath. The remaining cast isn’t bad either, but it’s Cheadle who really shines. Cedric the Entertainer has a minor role. Martin Sheen is plays the same type business-type-with-a-soft side we’ve seen him in multiple times before. Chiwetel Ejiofor is someone moviegoers will recognize from such movies as Four Brothers and Melinda and Melinda. He plays Greene’s best friend and manager, who not only helps Greene launch his career, but uses him to vicariously live his own dreams.

Greene was a fascinating individual and the movie kept me entertained for the whole movie. In fact, I’ll go as far to say as this film will be up for several Oscars when the time comes around – at the very least or Cheadle.

If you don’t mind crass language and behavior, and want to see a small piece of American history that many people don’t know about, I would urge people to check this one out.