Love & Mercy

Love & Mercy is about Brian Wilson, the creative force behind the seminal ‘60s pop band The Beach Boys. But unlike most biopics, Love & Mercy doesn’t dwell on Top 40 hits, key moments of success, and the obligatory rise to fame. Instead it contrasts a broken Brian Wilson exorcising his demons later in his career, with his younger self at the height of his creative genius writing “Pet Sounds.” ?The action is compelling as Paul Dano (the young Wilson) and John Cusack (old Wilson) take turns portraying the troubled star.

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There is one extended scene of sensuality and partial nudity that ClearPlay edits, in addition to some occasional profanity, particularly in scenes of intense emotion. The movie doesn’t hold back on its portrayal of mental distress and emotional abuse, and may be too intense for young viewers. But its message of the power of love and its effect on the resilience of the human spirit is a positive message for teens and above.

Is Love a ‘Surfin’ Safari’ or should I just stay ‘In My Room’?...

The movie’s attention to period detail, and a script that focuses on emotional truth rather than historical accuracy (though there’s plenty of that, too), make Love & Mercy an outstanding experience full of good vibrations. Paul Giamatti as Wilson’s controlling personal physician is as natural as he is terrifying. Elizabeth Banks also offers a strong supporting performance as the woman Wilson ultimately falls for.

Marty Nabhan, ClearPlay Moondoggy

Rated PG-13 for thematic elements, drug content and language; 121 mins; Directed by Bill Pohland