Love and Mercy (2014)
Rated PG-13
Starring John Cusack, Paul Dano, Elizabeth Banks, Paul Giamatti, Jack Abel
Directed by Bill Pohland
The Story:
Brian Wilson (Dano) struggles with the voices in his head that drive him to make music. The problem, his latest idea, "Pet Sounds" is something unlike the Beach Boys have ever done before.
Brian Wilson (Cusack) meets Melinda Ledbetter (Banks) at a car dealership and he is smitten. He begins taking her out, but their relationship continues to be stifled by the domineering presence of Dr. Eugene Landy (Giamatti).
The two stories will weave in and out of one another, almost seamlessly as the audience is taken to the 60s and 80s watching Wilson's life fall apart, and ultimately, come together.
While I'm not a huge fan of the Beach Boys, there is no denying they churned out their fair share of hits throughout their illustrious career, and many snippets will fill the soundtrack of this film. It's interesting to see how Wilson constructed Pet Sounds and as with all things ahead of its time, the respect it receives now is nowhere near the reception it received upon arrival.
While the 60s show Wilson's descent, thanks in no part to his own father, it is the 80s that shows us a Wilson that has hit rock bottom and it is only through the kindess and love that Melinda develops for Brian that she ultimately is able to save him.
Giamatti is only missing the moustache to twirl as he relishes his role as villain in this piece. Dano and Cusack both bring their best to showcase Brian's vulnerability and drive to the screen.
And yes, I will have to grudgingly up my respect for the Beach Boys after seeing this.
Final Grade: B
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