Smile!

As a lifelong fan of the Beach Boys, this tribute to Brian Wilson is somewhat challenging to watch. It is sad, in so many ways, to see the struggles & trials of a man who is so brilliant musically and yet so challenged by life.

This documentary is powerful, honest and raw in many ways. It is, in most ways, a true tribute to the man...yet, it is also a powerful eye-opener provided by Wilson himself into his struggles.

Of course, the challenges of the Beach Boys have been well documented for years. It is weird, really...it's the sort of drama you might expect out of a modern rapper or rock band...not a band whose music has been uplifting, celebratory and fun. Yet, for most of the Beach Boys' history...life has been anything but fun.

I've seen this band probably 15-20 times in my life...they have brought me joy, quite literally, when nothing else in my life did. This documentary, directed by Don was, is painful to watch but beautiful to see. Beach Boys fans should consider this a must-see, and fans of musical history would benefit by seeing a true master in the light of truth.

© Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Cr