The vibrations are good and the music still vital in Don Was' short but sweet documentary about Beach Boys singer-songwriter Brian Wilson, opening today at Laemmle's Monica Theatre.
Concentrating on Wilson's musical legacy, but not shying away entirely from his drug-related artistic troubles, "Brian Wilson: I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" is reverential and uplifting.
Seen in many sequences with brother Carl and mother Audree -- including a poignant moment where the trio sings "In My Room" -- Wilson is articulate and forthright about his rocky road from cultural icon to half-mad legend troubled by lawsuits and adverse publicity about his lifestyle.
There are some notable exclusions, including only guarded references to psychotherapist Dr. Eugene Landy, who was hired to treat Wilson's mental illness and "never left him alone." Fellow Beach Boy Mike Love, who sued successfully for greater songwriting credit and back royalties for old songs, is also nowhere to be found.
The film chronologically replays Wilson's storied career, with sparing but effective use of vintage footage interspersed with memories and tributes from musicians and associates. Among the latter are Linda Ronstadt, Tom Petty, David Crosby and Graham Nash, Lindsey Buckingham, Danny Hutton of Three Dog Night and Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth.
Was' game plan is to restore Wilson to his rightful place as an innovator and influential lyricist, although there's no denying that the chart-topping Beach Boys were synonymous with good times in the sun and surf. Still, some of the best moments occur when Wilson recounts the origins of the group's more reflective songs, including writing "The Warmth of the Sun" the day President Kennedy was assassinated.
Wilson's first wife, Marilyn, offers many insights into the artist's childlike demeanor, and wistfully recalls her sad reaction upon hearing the plaintive ballad "Caroline No" -- which Wilson relates he wrote in 10 minutes while high on marijuana. Further healing occurs with the sentiments of his daughters Carnie and Wendy, who have achieved fame on their own as members of Wilson Phillips, especially when they join their father in a new version of "Do It Again".
Excellently photographed in black and white by Wyatt Troll, Was' documentary is not the last word on its complicated subject. But as a tribute to a survivor, "Brian Wilson: I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" is a satisfying portrait of a talented entertainer on the reboun a...
Concentrating on Wilson's musical legacy, but not shying away entirely from his drug-related artistic troubles, "Brian Wilson: I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" is reverential and uplifting.
Seen in many sequences with brother Carl and mother Audree -- including a poignant moment where the trio sings "In My Room" -- Wilson is articulate and forthright about his rocky road from cultural icon to half-mad legend troubled by lawsuits and adverse publicity about his lifestyle.
There are some notable exclusions, including only guarded references to psychotherapist Dr. Eugene Landy, who was hired to treat Wilson's mental illness and "never left him alone." Fellow Beach Boy Mike Love, who sued successfully for greater songwriting credit and back royalties for old songs, is also nowhere to be found.
The film chronologically replays Wilson's storied career, with sparing but effective use of vintage footage interspersed with memories and tributes from musicians and associates. Among the latter are Linda Ronstadt, Tom Petty, David Crosby and Graham Nash, Lindsey Buckingham, Danny Hutton of Three Dog Night and Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth.
Was' game plan is to restore Wilson to his rightful place as an innovator and influential lyricist, although there's no denying that the chart-topping Beach Boys were synonymous with good times in the sun and surf. Still, some of the best moments occur when Wilson recounts the origins of the group's more reflective songs, including writing "The Warmth of the Sun" the day President Kennedy was assassinated.
Wilson's first wife, Marilyn, offers many insights into the artist's childlike demeanor, and wistfully recalls her sad reaction upon hearing the plaintive ballad "Caroline No" -- which Wilson relates he wrote in 10 minutes while high on marijuana. Further healing occurs with the sentiments of his daughters Carnie and Wendy, who have achieved fame on their own as members of Wilson Phillips, especially when they join their father in a new version of "Do It Again".
Excellently photographed in black and white by Wyatt Troll, Was' documentary is not the last word on its complicated subject. But as a tribute to a survivor, "Brian Wilson: I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" is a satisfying portrait of a talented entertainer on the reboun a...
- 10/4/1995
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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