See it at the Movies

LOVE & MERCY

with Joyce & Don Fowler
Posted 6/12/15

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(Intense bio of Brian Wilson)

Think the Beach Boys were always one big happy family? Think again.

This intense biography of Brian Wilson tells his story as he sees it.

The …

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See it at the Movies

LOVE & MERCY

Posted

* * * *

(Intense bio of Brian Wilson)

Think the Beach Boys were always one big happy family? Think again.

This intense biography of Brian Wilson tells his story as he sees it.

The two-hour movie follows Brian from youth to present day, but not always in chronological order. Paul Dano plays the younger Brian, while John Cusack plays him in later years, and they are both terrific.

Wilson’s creative genius is an amalgamation of his troubled youth, hearing strange voices and noises and a bit of madness thrown in.

The story takes us far away from the sunny beaches of California to the recording studios and expensive houses where Wilson is figuratively and literally trapped by a controlling psychiatrist, brilliantly played by Pail Giamatti. You will hate him.

A Cadillac saleswoman ( Elizabeth Banks) frees Brian from his clutches and himself. Although frightened by his erratic behavior, she stands by and stands up for this troubled, complicated musical genius.

There are many fascinating behind-the-scenes moments to grab your attention, especially the creation of “Good Vibrations,” that incredible song that followed some of the earlier fluffy beach songs.

We’ve seen a lot of “rise and fall” star biographies, but this one has a higher credibility than most. Stick around for the credits and listen to the real Brian Wilson.

Rated PG-13, with some profanity and drug use. If you were and are a Beach Boys fan, this is a must-see.

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