Review: "The Beach Boys"

This is an interesting documentary seemingly made by fans (directors Marshall and Zimny) for other fans, but it isn't likely to appeal to those unfamiliar with or indifferent to the band. And for diehard fans, The Beach Boys might come up short.

Although Brian's struggles are described in detail, the film doesn't go into detail about the fate of brother/bandmate Dennis, who struggled with his own demons and drowned in 1983, and it focuses mainly on the single decade of the 1960s. It also jumps around in time for narrative flow, which might prove confusing for viewers keeping track.

Better connections could also have been made among the outside musical commentators -- how do they relate and why were they selected to speak on The Beach Boys? Although the film runs a bit long, there's a lot to be learned and appreciated in the career and music of this pioneering group.

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Read the full review on Common Sense Media.

Images courtesy of Disney+