This movie tells the story of Brian Wilson, one of the main members of the Beach Boys musical group. The movie goes back and forth between Brian’s life in the 1960’s and Brian’s life in the 1980’s. Brian in the 1960’s is played by Paul Dano and Brian in the 1980’s was played by John Cusack.
After a lot of musical success in the 1960’s, Brian suffers a panic attack and convinces the band to let him stay behind on their tour and while he continues to write music. He begins hearing voices in his head and starts to lose touch with reality.
Brian is diagnosed with schizophrenia and becomes under the care of Dr. Eugene Landy (Paul Giamatti) who pretty much keeps Brian drugged up. Brian visits a Cadillac dealer with the intent to buy a car and meets Melinda Ledbetter who is played by Elizabeth Banks. Brian immediately falls for her and asks her out.
When Melinda realizes that Brian is never allowed to be alone and she sees the treatment Brian receives from Dr. Landy, she decides to take matters into her own hands.
The acting in this movie was the best I have seen all year. I even read that Brian Wilson himself thought the actors were cast perfectly. Brian when on to say that he found himself actually afraid for a while after seeing Paul Giamatti’s portrayal of Dr. Landy.
All three actors were worthy of a Oscar nomination even though it is still early in the season.
Of course the movie was about a member of the Beach Boys so it goes without saying that the music was wonderful. I look forward to the soundtrack. It’s hard to believe that Brian is one of the last living members of one of the best rock groups of the 60’s and 70’s.
Overall this was an awesome and unforgettable movie. I rated it 4 out of 4 stars. It’s a must see.
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