Must Go
An awesome, unorthodox biopic that takes risks with form and narrative, has strong performances, script, cinematography, and of course, an amazing soundtrack. It will expose young people to the brilliance of Wilson’s music and give older fans an insight into why Wilson is the poster boy for using creativity as an escape and an outlet from the pain of life and mental illness.
I thought it would be another musical biopic like “Walk the Line” or “Ray”. It’s nothing like those movies. This is the most intense, in-depth, and soulful look at the fragility of the creative mind since “All That Jazz”. “All That Jazz” is the best film ever made about choreography and dance, this is the best film ever made about rock ‘n roll. Dark, often depressing, but also exhilarating, “Love & Mercy”, like “All That Jazz”, captures the sense of loneliness and despair many creative geniuses suffer. And when the music starts, it’s cool, loud, and breathtaking.
The film provides rare insights into mental illness and shines a light on the need for the families and friends of such patients to remain active and attentive regarding their loved one’s care. Beach Boys fans, and really, all music fans, will enjoy seeing the creative process behind one of the most important influences in the history of American popular music.