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Smiley Smile Stuff => General On Topic Discussions => Topic started by: HeyJude on March 25, 2019, 11:20:29 AM



Title: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 25, 2019, 11:20:29 AM
IMDB shows a poster for the Brian documentary that had been mentioned late last year. This appears to be an in-house production (BriMel and Jean Sievers as producers). I'm sure some fans will nitpick using a Carl song in the title, but at least it's something more inspired than "An American Band" or "An American Family." "Endless Harmony" was a good, if rather half-ironic, title for the '98 BB doc.

Anyway, no release date. An odd list of "stars" at the top of the poster. I'm wondering if they interviewed Al Jardine for this; as the film is supposedly more about Brian's solo resurgence over the last 20-ish years, I think reconnecting with Al is a heartwarming part of the story that should be told even in the context of his "solo" career.

(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BM2NlMDIzMjgtOTBjOC00MDhlLWExZjYtOWQyZjI5N2NmYjMwXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTQ0MzQ1MjQ@._V1_SY1000_CR0,0,647,1000_AL_.jpg)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on March 25, 2019, 12:10:16 PM
I think that poster looks cool!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on March 25, 2019, 12:30:51 PM
I think that poster looks cool!

I agree for the most part, although something looks off about the pic of young Brian


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: urbanite on March 25, 2019, 12:32:39 PM
They could have found a better picture of the older Brian at the control panel.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on March 25, 2019, 12:47:18 PM
I do find the choice of one of Carl's song titles for the film more than a bit odd (unless it's meant as a tribute to Carl).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Ebb and Flow on March 25, 2019, 01:21:20 PM
I think that poster looks cool!

I agree for the most part, although something looks off about the pic of young Brian

They mirrored it from the original


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on March 25, 2019, 03:58:26 PM
I think that poster looks cool!

I agree for the most part, although something looks off about the pic of young Brian

They mirrored it from the original
Caught that, but whatever type of image filter was used did some strange things to his eyes. Think it's because the whites of his eyes now blend in with his cheeks. It's so minor yet it's throwing me off


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: c-man on March 25, 2019, 04:41:24 PM
The best title would've been "I Just Wasn't Made For These Times", but as that had already been used as the title of a Brian documentary (hard to believe it, but nearly 25 years ago now!), the next best would've been "Love And Mercy", but since that was already used as the title of a Brian biopic, they should've just called it "Being Brian Wilson". THAT would've been a GREAT title! Even "Til I Die" or "This Whole World" or "Sail On Sailor" would've been more fitting than the title of a Carl Wilson song! Let's just hope the movie's good.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on March 25, 2019, 07:01:53 PM
They should put it on Netflix


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on March 25, 2019, 09:29:14 PM
The best title would've been "I Just Wasn't Made For These Times", but as that had already been used as the title of a Brian documentary (hard to believe it, but nearly 25 years ago now!), the next best would've been "Love And Mercy", but since that was already used as the title of a Brian biopic, they should've just called it "Being Brian Wilson". THAT would've been a GREAT title! Even "Til I Die" or "This Whole World" or "Sail On Sailor" would've been more fitting than the title of a Carl Wilson song! Let's just hope the movie's good.

I agree with what you're saying, although I have a hunch maybe Brian picked or approved this title because he misses his brother. Isn't there a video of him backstage on a TV show about 10 years ago playing this song at the piano?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on March 25, 2019, 10:12:28 PM
Sure is...loved that clip.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocky Raccoon on March 25, 2019, 10:13:32 PM
Brian did end his book with the lyrics from "Long Promised Road" if I recall correctly, it's clearly a song that means a lot to him.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: RiC on March 26, 2019, 01:38:43 AM
I'm sure the title will make sense after seeing the film. It's propably also a reference to the concept of the film. I am really hyped up about this. There are couple behind the scenes photos on the IMDB page as well: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9378672/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 26, 2019, 06:43:08 AM
People, I'm sure Brian and the director are very aware that the song title is one of Carl's songs. I'm not even convinced they mean for some strong connection to Carl to be indicated by the title (especially if this doc is focused primarily on Brian's last 20 years as a solo artist). I'm guessing they just wanted a title that fit all of the criteria that such a documentary title would need to. In no particular order:

1. Relatively short and succinct
2. Some connection to the Beach Boys/Brian
3. Something not painfully obvious or seemingly trite (e.g. "Fun Fun Fun: The Story of Brian Wilson")
4. Something with a bit of poignancy and/or indication of a long journey
5. Not something similar to a title already used for a doc

Yes, it's a bit odd at first glance that it's a Carl song. Other than that, I think it's an objectively pretty good title for a documentary. It's more immediately indicative of something than just lobbing a random Brian song title out there. "'Til I Die" is one of his most amazing pieces of music, but I'm not sure it's the best title for a doc about Brian's late era resurgence as a solo artist 1998-present.

And again, I'm sure Brian and all of the people working on the film are well aware that "Long Promised Road" is a Carl song. I'm not at all worried about this stealing any thunder away from Carl or his legacy, because Carl's family/estate have put out effectively ZERO product or projects relating to Carl in the last 20 years since his death. Apart from a couple of charity events and CDs tied to those charity events, Carl's estate has done nothing to keep his name out there. Not even a photo-heavy "authorized" biography or just photo book. No CD of solo Carl demos.

Unless Carl's estate was in the middle of producing a documentary on Carl's career with the same title and Brent Wilson snagged the title first, I see no problem with Brian's doc using the name. It's a solid name, and who knows, maybe it'll actually draw more attention to the song if it's featured in the film.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Gettin Hungry on March 26, 2019, 11:24:52 AM
I think that poster looks cool!

I agree for the most part, although something looks off about the pic of young Brian

They mirrored it from the original
Caught that, but whatever type of image filter was used did some strange things to his eyes. Think it's because the whites of his eyes now blend in with his cheeks. It's so minor yet it's throwing me off

I think they also tilted the image up, so his eye line seems odd. But you're right about the filter making his eyes look slightly demonic.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on March 26, 2019, 12:22:17 PM
People, I'm sure Brian and the director are very aware that the song title is one of Carl's songs. I'm not even convinced they mean for some strong connection to Carl to be indicated by the title (especially if this doc is focused primarily on Brian's last 20 years as a solo artist). I'm guessing they just wanted a title that fit all of the criteria that such a documentary title would need to. In no particular order:

I don't think anyone said or even implied that the director/Brian Wilson were unaware this was a Carl Wilson song. I think others are possibly correct about it being a tribute to Carl (specifically the information in RockyRacoon's post), and that makes me seriously wonder if the title was Brian's idea (or an idea that Brian happily agreed with). I agree though, at first glance it is odd. But the title is actually brilliant. We could've gotten "Let It Shine: The Brian Wilson Story", or "The Last Song: An In Depth Portrait of Brian Wilson" etc etc. But the title doesn't point to any specific Brian Wilson solo album. I also very much agree with HeyJude's #4 criteria "Something with a bit of poignancy and/or indication of a long journey". It's really refreshing they decided to do something out of the ordinary for the title.

I'd also wonder if Brian spent some time recording a few tunes for this documentary (somewhat like IJWMFTT) (and perhaps this has already been addressed in previous threads about this documentary), in which case perhaps he did a cover of 'Long Promised Road' that ends or starts the movie. The IMDB page does state:

Quote
Brian Wilson   ...   (original score)

Can't wait to see this film!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on March 26, 2019, 03:33:05 PM
Rab....You’re correct.

https://www.srqfm.com/music-news/new-brian-wilson-documentary-poster-released/

‘The title of the movie comes from the Beach Boys' 1971 track “Long Promised Road,” which was written by Wilson's youngest brother Carl Wilson, and was re-recorded by Wilson for the new film.’

Another point. Didn’t the idea for this start with regular interviews that Brian just wasn’t into, so they started driving around L.A. where he then opened up and really got into it? That could be the ‘road’ reference.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: tpesky on March 26, 2019, 06:21:15 PM
When I saw Al in February he mentioned that he was in it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on March 26, 2019, 08:24:05 PM
Rab....You’re correct.

https://www.srqfm.com/music-news/new-brian-wilson-documentary-poster-released/

‘The title of the movie comes from the Beach Boys' 1971 track “Long Promised Road,” which was written by Wilson's youngest brother Carl Wilson, and was re-recorded by Wilson for the new film.’

Another point. Didn’t the idea for this start with regular interviews that Brian just wasn’t into, so they started driving around L.A. where he then opened up and really got into it? That could be the ‘road’ reference.

Thanks for the info! I have been so out of the loop lately, that I completely forgot about the driving around LA aspect of this film. I can't remember how many hours of interview was recorded but I think it was a lot. Anyways, it does make complete sense for the title now. I can't wait to hear this soundtrack either.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wata on March 26, 2019, 09:17:23 PM
Has the soundtrack already been confirmed for the doc? I'm curious if they include any of the tracks from unreleased BW recordings(Andy Paley Sessions, "Bedroom Tapes" and TLOS demos, for instance)

Also, I'd love to hear Brian's tackle on Long Promised Road (a song I really love), and I hope they get rid of obvious autotune as much as possible.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Howie Edelson on March 26, 2019, 09:47:33 PM
I wrote the article posted above.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on March 27, 2019, 06:04:55 AM
Has the soundtrack already been confirmed for the doc? I'm curious if they include any of the tracks from unreleased BW recordings(Andy Paley Sessions, "Bedroom Tapes" and TLOS demos, for instance)

Also, I'd love to hear Brian's tackle on Long Promised Road (a song I really love), and I hope they get rid of obvious autotune as much as possible.

I think the only times Brian's vocals have been overly-scrutinized/criticized around the last decade is when Joe Thomas is involved with the music. Whereas TLOS, Gershwin, Disney, 'One Kind Of Love', have been crowning moments in Brian's solo career as far as vocals are concerned. I don't know what this soundtrack holds for us, but I have high hopes the vocals will be on-point.

Btw, this may just be a case of semantics. But I don't think I've ever heard auto-tune on Brian's records. If there is pitch-correction it sounds like it's manually done on a note-by-note basis per the mixer's judgement. Case in point, Mike's vocals on Unleash The Love sound like every note is being corrected (even if they don't need to be), which indicates a plug-in that is constantly on, automatically making pitch correction. (Not bringing up Mike to start a Mike discussion, but his music is literally the best example I can think of as the pitch-correction is beyond blatant).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 27, 2019, 06:53:07 AM
Has the soundtrack already been confirmed for the doc? I'm curious if they include any of the tracks from unreleased BW recordings(Andy Paley Sessions, "Bedroom Tapes" and TLOS demos, for instance)

Also, I'd love to hear Brian's tackle on Long Promised Road (a song I really love), and I hope they get rid of obvious autotune as much as possible.

I think the only times Brian's vocals have been overly-scrutinized/criticized around the last decade is when Joe Thomas is involved with the music. Whereas TLOS, Gershwin, Disney, 'One Kind Of Love', have been crowning moments in Brian's solo career as far as vocals are concerned. I don't know what this soundtrack holds for us, but I have high hopes the vocals will be on-point.

Btw, this may just be a case of semantics. But I don't think I've ever heard auto-tune on Brian's records. If there is pitch-correction it sounds like it's manually done on a note-by-note basis per the mixer's judgement. Case in point, Mike's vocals on Unleash The Love sound like every note is being corrected (even if they don't need to be), which indicates a plug-in that is constantly on, automatically making pitch correction. (Not bringing up Mike to start a Mike discussion, but his music is literally the best example I can think of as the pitch-correction is beyond blatant).

There has of course been probably hundreds of pages of autotune (and/or other digital pitch correction) debate going back a number of years here, and I certainly don't want to dredge all of that back up.

I think Brian's solo records haven't had nearly the egregious autotune heard on Mike's last two solo sets. But I also think there has been digital pitch correction applied to Brian solo records that goes beyond literally pitching up or down only single notes (which, if it were the case, would often be nearly if not fully undetectable). They've done a solid job of not going the "Unleash the Love" route of figuratively flipping the autotune switch to "11" and leaving the room for the entire album. But it's still there on some Brian stuff to an extent that it can be detected on full lines/songs to varying degrees, as discussed at length in old threads on the NPP album and others.

And certainly, apart from Mike's solo sets, the Brian/Joe Thomas-centric 2012 "That's Why God Made the Radio" has excessive autotune throughout, as does the live C50 set. It's in fact ironic that Mike in his book complained about attempted use of autotune on the C50 live shows themselves (and his comments about Brian and Al's "The Right Time" hopefully not using autotune), in light of how heavily it's used on his solo sets.

Also, for those curious about a good example of dialing autotune to "11" and never letting up, listen to the singing on the 2017 Disney "live action remake" of "Beauty and the Beast." It's as distracting as Mike's recent solo albums.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 27, 2019, 06:57:39 AM
It will indeed be interesting to see if they compile a "soundtrack" to the documentary. It of course could simply be the new recording of LPR (possibly a few other new things) mixed with back catalog Brian solo tracks.

But it would certainly be a great opportunity to do a full disc (or two!) of unreleased Brian stuff. It would be great for them to go back all the way to the 70s and even late 60s, but supposedly this doc focuses on Brian's last 20 years as a solo artist, so I'm not sure what sort of unreleased stuff they'd pull out. He certainly has plenty of unreleased material from the last 20-25 years. There's the Beck stuff, other NPP outtakes, perhaps those TWGMTR album outtakes, and other hunks of sessions going back to the 2000s and late 90s. If they wanted to backdate a bit before the 1998 era, they could indeed work in more 90s Paley material.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on March 27, 2019, 08:26:42 AM
There has of course been probably hundreds of pages of autotune (and/or other digital pitch correction) debate going back a number of years here, and I certainly don't want to dredge all of that back up.

I think Brian's solo records haven't had nearly the egregious autotune heard on Mike's last two solo sets. But I also think there has been digital pitch correction applied to Brian solo records that goes beyond literally pitching up or down only single notes (which, if it were the case, would often be nearly if not fully undetectable). They've done a solid job of not going the "Unleash the Love" route of figuratively flipping the autotune switch to "11" and leaving the room for the entire album. But it's still there on some Brian stuff to an extent that it can be detected on full lines/songs to varying degrees, as discussed at length in old threads on the NPP album and others.

And certainly, apart from Mike's solo sets, the Brian/Joe Thomas-centric 2012 "That's Why God Made the Radio" has excessive autotune throughout, as does the live C50 set. It's in fact ironic that Mike in his book complained about attempted use of autotune on the C50 live shows themselves (and his comments about Brian and Al's "The Right Time" hopefully not using autotune), in light of how heavily it's used on his solo sets.

Also, for those curious about a good example of dialing autotune to "11" and never letting up, listen to the singing on the 2017 Disney "live action remake" of "Beauty and the Beast." It's as distracting as Mike's recent solo albums.

Regarding Brian's pitch-correction. On anything pre-NPP, I don't hear any songs where Brian has full lines that are pitch-corrected....I will happily be proven wrong though, I just don't remember hearing anything when it comes to full lines. Now, I won't even touch NPP, as I have read both sides of the debate, I remember one Ray Lawlor post saying that no pitch-correction was used on any part of NPP, but also remember Brian stating that they use pitch-correction (can't remember where he said this though). I do know that when I listen to NPP and Gershwin/Disney back-to-back, there is an obvious difference in how Brian sounds...whether it's an effect, pitch-correcting, an odd double-tracking anomaly, I don't know. That being said, as you say, there's a vast difference between the "dial at 11" sound of Mike's record and any effects/correction used on any Brian solo album.

Regarding Mike's comment. It's my conjecture that Mike saw all the controversy on SmileySmile.net (he mentioned around that time that he reads this forum) regarding the snippet of 'On The Island' and just couldn't help himself when 'The Right Time' came out as a single. He saw people bitching about the possibility of auto-tune on NPP and had to stir the pot himself. As there was never any major talk about auto-tune on Brian's music prior* this is the only reason I can think of as to why the subject would've been on Mike's radar at the time of that interview. And if he did read the comments about 'The Right Time' prior to the interview, I find it funny that he had the time to read the comments about the song, but he didn't have the time to actually listen to the song itself. Either way you look at it, it's absurd.

*There was some talk of pitch-correction on the Gershwin album, but the discussions weren't nearly as polarizing and drawn out as when NPP started to surface.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: NateRuvin on March 27, 2019, 08:42:36 AM
My take on the autotune thing is that, in BW's case, manual pitch correction, as opposed to an autotune plugin is being used. This allows the engineer to change individual notes that would otherwise stand out. As an engineer who uses both (automatic) autotune and (manual) pitch correction daily, I can hear the latter being used on BW's material as far back as the live Pet Sounds album, maybe even Imagination. When the notes are adjusted they get this tinny/robotic sound that stands out to the trained ear, and when it's "cranked up to 11" or applied as an automatic plugin, even the untrained ear can recognize how fake it sounds (UTL and C50 cd). The manual pitch correction was used very tastefully throughout BW's career. There aren't many moment from his pre-2012 studio catalog where the sound of the pitch correction takes me out of the music... I of course notice the little spots but it isn't distracting. Then we get to TWGMTR and NPP, where it sounds like, instead of using the pitch correction to just fix the bad notes, it was used to make all the notes "perfect". (Correcting all the notes via pitch correction will still sound more realistic than autotune, which can increase the speed by which you transition from note to note, giving the Cher effect) NPP sounds like the engineers spent hours making each note in key. I'm sure BW approves of this, but it does take out a certain humanity the voice has. This Beautiful Day, The Right Time, and One Kind Of Love are all great performances, yet they sound kind of off due to the pitch correction being used excessively.

Meanwhile, with Mike's crew it seems like someone think it's a good idea to put the automatic autotune plugin at the fastest it can possibly operate, giving every note Mike sings a completely robotic quality. Fortunately, it was slightly more subtle on Reason For The Season. the Scott Totten produced tracks actually sound pitch corrected and not autotuned... The Michael Lloyd produced, Little Saint Nick, is the main offender on RFTS. Definitely using the "cranked to 11" style that we saw on UTL... I actually wouldn't be surprised if this version of Little Saint Nick was recorded during the same sessions as Disc 2 of UTL... Same musicians playing and same overall sound.



Anyway , I couldn't be more excited for the documentary. The concept of feeling like getting to hang out with Brian is so exciting. I was also initially confused by the title, but once I heard that BW recorded his own version, I returned to feeling pure excitement.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wata on March 27, 2019, 09:11:39 AM
Has the soundtrack already been confirmed for the doc? I'm curious if they include any of the tracks from unreleased BW recordings(Andy Paley Sessions, "Bedroom Tapes" and TLOS demos, for instance)

Also, I'd love to hear Brian's tackle on Long Promised Road (a song I really love), and I hope they get rid of obvious autotune as much as possible.

I think the only times Brian's vocals have been overly-scrutinized/criticized around the last decade is when Joe Thomas is involved with the music. Whereas TLOS, Gershwin, Disney, 'One Kind Of Love', have been crowning moments in Brian's solo career as far as vocals are concerned. I don't know what this soundtrack holds for us, but I have high hopes the vocals will be on-point.

Btw, this may just be a case of semantics. But I don't think I've ever heard auto-tune on Brian's records. If there is pitch-correction it sounds like it's manually done on a note-by-note basis per the mixer's judgement. Case in point, Mike's vocals on Unleash The Love sound like every note is being corrected (even if they don't need to be), which indicates a plug-in that is constantly on, automatically making pitch correction. (Not bringing up Mike to start a Mike discussion, but his music is literally the best example I can think of as the pitch-correction is beyond blatant).
I think, in hindsight, referring to autotune wasn't a good idea for me - What I meant is that I'd love to see him continue with the production on Run James Run - organic, more rock-oriented production that would surely fit LPD.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on March 27, 2019, 10:41:55 AM

‘The title of the movie comes from the Beach Boys' 1971 track “Long Promised Road,” which was written by Wilson's youngest brother Carl Wilson, and was re-recorded by Wilson for the new film.’



This is remarkable and amazing.

Firstly, it's the first time (I think?) that Brian is doing a studio cover of one of his brother's BBs songs.  So that's pretty significant in my book.

Carl's solo track "Heaven" was covered by Brian years ago (and a really good cover too), although I cannot recall how/if it ever got proper release? I know it was floating around online for awhile, but it deserved a better and more high profile release than what it got.

Just the fact that Brian is at the point emotionally where he's down to do that is a big step, because I assume that Brian probably avoided dabbling too much into this kind of territory at least in part due to it being too sad or emotionally difficult for him to tackle. Yes, songs like Forever were played at C50, and if memory serves Brian's band (with Al and David?) performed a Carl or Denny song or two on a few rare occasions live. But I imagine doing a studio cover cuts a bit deeper for him.

I tend to think that this is a step forward in the healing process for Brian in terms of confronting difficult emotional stuff in his life. One by one, Brian has dealt with stuff that has long festered, like finishing SMiLE, going public about the sordid details of the Landy era, etc. I'm stoked for Brian and I really can't wait to see the doc (and hear the cover, which hopefully will be an extra reason for more people to be more interested in this doc).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 27, 2019, 11:25:01 AM
Regarding pitch correction and other forms of vocal engineering work, I'd say there has been some level of electronic pitch/vocal stacking help happening since probably the BB '85 album, and then on to the '88 BW album and into the 90s. Varying degrees at varying points, depending on the era, the technology, the ethos of the production at hand, which engineers and producers were working on the project, etc.

Check out this thread from an engineer on "Orange Crate Art":

https://www.gearslutz.com/board/so-much-gear-so-little-time/25857-brian-sandbox-wilson-tonite-show.html#post252354

On "Orange Crate Art", in addition to recording multiple takes and comping/punching-in (which is of course *not* a pitch-altering task and has been done for many, many years), they also ran his vocals through a synthesizer (folks on this board suggested a Fairlight or Synclavier was most likely) to correct the pitch on segments. They essentially used a pre-autotune, pre-DAW form of electronic/digital pitch correction all the way back then.

I'm thinking something similar was done to varying degrees on the BW '88 album and possibly the BB '85 album.

I think some form of pitch correction was used on later Brian projects, and prior to TWGMTR was done with skill and restraint and subtlety. I've always guessed some of those long, held notes on something like "Midnight's Another Day" had some digital help to hold those strong, high notes out so smoothly. Stuff like that. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on March 27, 2019, 11:33:49 AM
Nate, thanks for the informative post!

Wata, I understand. I think "organic" is where we all want Brian to be. It's gotta be tough to have [fill in the blank] Records still wanting something that will sell to everyone, have all these influences, etc. Brian probably gets tugged in so many directions which is probably why he seems to disinterested in recording sometimes.

CD, couldn't agree more.

Is there a timeframe for when/how this will be released?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on March 27, 2019, 11:38:28 AM
Somewhat related to HeyJude's most recent post regarding the history of pitch-correction. But I always found the complaints about Brian manipulating his solo voice to be hilarious, because he did it on Pet Sounds of all records for 'Caroline, No' - Brian has always used crazy ways of manipulating instruments and vocals. I mean, if you listen closely to 'Caroline, No' you can definitely tell that something isn't right with his voice. But no one complains about that. Just an observation.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 27, 2019, 11:45:52 AM
Brian has used all sorts of techniques through the years. But I do think there's a difference between altering the speed of a recording (e.g. "Caroline, No", the single mix of "It's OK", etc.), and using a synthesizer or digital plug-in to take a flat or sharp note and "fix" it.

I'm not saying the latter is problematic, and I think many years ago the idea/debate regarding "authenticity" of the vocal was sort of dropped; it isn't really about that anymore. When it truly is done in a sort of spot-checking fashion, it's not obtrusive at all. But the deal where an entire vocal is run though intensive autotune from beginning to end (TWGMTR, C50 live albums, Mike's last two solo albums) is where it becomes grating, not even so much because it's a way to "cheat" at singing or anything; it just *sounds awful.* When a vocal starts sounding robotic, or sounds so synthetic that people debate whether it's being run through an old school vocoder, *that's* when it's problematic.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 27, 2019, 11:56:06 AM
Back to the documentary, while it'll likely never happen, it would be interesting to see the same team of Jason Fine and Brent Wilson do a Mike Love documentary next. I'm not trying to be funny; Jason Fine seemed to be able to strike up a good back and forth with Mike on his 2012 C50 article for Rolling Stone.

I recall Mike mentioning a few years back he wanted to do a documentary on himself and/or was looking into it, so I think a Mike-focused doc is possible, but I would imagine he'd use his own people.

Obviously, first and foremost, I'd like to see a "Beatles Anthology" style multi-part BB documentary covering everything.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on March 27, 2019, 12:07:33 PM
Somewhat related to HeyJude's most recent post regarding the history of pitch-correction. But I always found the complaints about Brian manipulating his solo voice to be hilarious, because he did it on Pet Sounds of all records for 'Caroline, No' - Brian has always used crazy ways of manipulating instruments and vocals. I mean, if you listen closely to 'Caroline, No' you can definitely tell that something isn't right with his voice. But no one complains about that. Just an observation.

Actually, I'll be the one guy to complain about the PS album version of Caroline, No! Haha.

Once I learned that Brian's voice was altered, and then I heard the original speed version on the PS box set, I immediately felt STRONGLY that the original speed version is by MILES the best version. You lose something in the process of not hearing Brian's voice as he actually sang the song. Brian's emotions and aching longing are compromised to some degree. He doesn't sound quite right, which is especially evident when you A/B the two versions.

Plus the speeding up of the vocals (and the whole song) was a Murry idea I believe. Not that it's impossible for Murry to have had a good idea or two that Brian may have actually agreed with, but my understanding is that it was to make Brian sound "younger" or something. So already it's a hare-brained idea that came from a lame "marketability" viewpoint, much like the viewpoint that latter-day Brian needs to be Autotuned to appeal to the youthful market who is accustomed to hearing Autotune.

Honestly, I love Brian, I support his music, but if some well-meaning fans on an internet forum can nudge him or his producer(s) into not using Autotune, or doing it TOTALLY transparently (it can be done!), then I'm all for that nudge. Just listen to Brian's mid 2000s "What Love Can Do", which is a super great song that unfortunately is slathered in Autotune to a point where it absolutely takes away from the song. Don't do it this time around, Bri! Please!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on March 27, 2019, 12:47:57 PM
Somewhat related to HeyJude's most recent post regarding the history of pitch-correction. But I always found the complaints about Brian manipulating his solo voice to be hilarious, because he did it on Pet Sounds of all records for 'Caroline, No' - Brian has always used crazy ways of manipulating instruments and vocals. I mean, if you listen closely to 'Caroline, No' you can definitely tell that something isn't right with his voice. But no one complains about that. Just an observation.

Actually, I'll be the one guy to complain about the PS album version of Caroline, No! Haha.

Once I learned that Brian's voice was altered, and then I heard the original speed version on the PS box set, I immediately felt STRONGLY that the original speed version is by MILES the best version. You lose something in the process of not hearing Brian's voice as he actually sang the song. Brian's emotions and aching longing are compromised to some degree. He doesn't sound quite right, which is especially evident when you A/B the two versions.

Plus the speeding up of the vocals (and the whole song) was a Murry idea I believe. Not that it's impossible for Murry to have had a good idea or two that Brian may have actually agreed with, but my understanding is that it was to make Brian sound "younger" or something. So already it's a hare-brained idea that came from a lame "marketability" viewpoint, much like the viewpoint that latter-day Brian needs to be Autotuned to appeal to the youthful market who is accustomed to hearing Autotune.

Honestly, I love Brian, I support his music, but if some well-meaning fans on an internet forum can nudge him or his producer(s) into not using Autotune, or doing it TOTALLY transparently (it can be done!), then I'm all for that nudge. Just listen to Brian's mid 2000s "What Love Can Do", which is a super great song that unfortunately is slathered in Autotune to a point where it absolutely takes away from the song. Don't do it this time around, Bri! Please!


I honestly though I was the only person for felt that way about Caroline, No...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on March 27, 2019, 01:15:43 PM
Somewhat related to HeyJude's most recent post regarding the history of pitch-correction. But I always found the complaints about Brian manipulating his solo voice to be hilarious, because he did it on Pet Sounds of all records for 'Caroline, No' - Brian has always used crazy ways of manipulating instruments and vocals. I mean, if you listen closely to 'Caroline, No' you can definitely tell that something isn't right with his voice. But no one complains about that. Just an observation.

Actually, I'll be the one guy to complain about the PS album version of Caroline, No! Haha.

Once I learned that Brian's voice was altered, and then I heard the original speed version on the PS box set, I immediately felt STRONGLY that the original speed version is by MILES the best version. You lose something in the process of not hearing Brian's voice as he actually sang the song. Brian's emotions and aching longing are compromised to some degree. He doesn't sound quite right, which is especially evident when you A/B the two versions.

Plus the speeding up of the vocals (and the whole song) was a Murry idea I believe. Not that it's impossible for Murry to have had a good idea or two that Brian may have actually agreed with, but my understanding is that it was to make Brian sound "younger" or something. So already it's a hare-brained idea that came from a lame "marketability" viewpoint, much like the viewpoint that latter-day Brian needs to be Autotuned to appeal to the youthful market who is accustomed to hearing Autotune.

Honestly, I love Brian, I support his music, but if some well-meaning fans on an internet forum can nudge him or his producer(s) into not using Autotune, or doing it TOTALLY transparently (it can be done!), then I'm all for that nudge. Just listen to Brian's mid 2000s "What Love Can Do", which is a super great song that unfortunately is slathered in Autotune to a point where it absolutely takes away from the song. Don't do it this time around, Bri! Please!

Haha, yeah, I've no doubt seen opinions on the sped-up vs regular, and know there are people who prefer one or the other. I've been a part of some of those discussions when they've happened. My point is more that those who gave Brian non-stop criticism about recent "autotune" don't criticize 'Caroline, No' to the level they do to 'Whatever Happened', when the vocal manipulation is almost just as obvious on 'Caroline, No'. It was just an observation about how people will pick and choose what they get pissed off about.

As I said earlier in this thread, I want Brian to go the Johnny Cash American Series route - Brian needs to find something he's passionate about singing/playing, he needs to not worry about studio gimmicks that will only date the work. I legit don't care if he's off in a few spots, Cash was pretty iffy on the latter records of the American Series, but they give the records that much more reality. Reality is what we want. I guess we can hope that his work for Long Promised Road will be exactly that.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on March 27, 2019, 01:41:02 PM

‘The title of the movie comes from the Beach Boys' 1971 track “Long Promised Road,” which was written by Wilson's youngest brother Carl Wilson, and was re-recorded by Wilson for the new film.’



This is remarkable and amazing.

Firstly, it's the first time (I think?) that Brian is doing a studio cover of one of his brother's BBs songs.  So that's pretty significant in my book.

Carl's solo track "Heaven" was covered by Brian years ago (and a really good cover too), although I cannot recall how/if it ever got proper release? I know it was floating around online for awhile, but it deserved a better and more high profile release than what it got.

Just the fact that Brian is at the point emotionally where he's down to do that is a big step, because I assume that Brian probably avoided dabbling too much into this kind of territory at least in part due to it being too sad or emotionally difficult for him to tackle. Yes, songs like Forever were played at C50, and if memory serves Brian's band (with Al and David?) performed a Carl or Denny song or two on a few rare occasions live. But I imagine doing a studio cover cuts a bit deeper for him.

I tend to think that this is a step forward in the healing process for Brian in terms of confronting difficult emotional stuff in his life. One by one, Brian has dealt with stuff that has long festered, like finishing SMiLE, going public about the sordid details of the Landy era, etc. I'm stoked for Brian and I really can't wait to see the doc (and hear the cover, which hopefully will be an extra reason for more people to be more interested in this doc).



Brian recorded "Heaven" and put it on his website. That's where it came from. I really liked it back then, but I seem to remember that it featured some out of key wall-of-Brian sounds. I'm not sure, though.
Brian played "Forever" early during his touring years. "Little bird" was played right after the Beach Boys tour in 2012 and "Feel flows" has made appearances since Blondie became part of the band. I think that's about it of songs by Dennis or Carl that Brian played liv except of course if they were co-writes with Brian ("Good timin'", "Friends", maybe more).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: chewy on March 27, 2019, 02:37:05 PM
god- naming a brian doc long promised road is worse than the bohemimean rhapsody movie where freddie was singing a song he wrote without a mustache, when in the move he had a mustache


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 27, 2019, 02:47:28 PM
Or, those two things are nothing alike in any way, shape, or form.

We now know Brian recorded the song for the documentary. The song and the film's title (remember, BriMel and Jean Sievers are producers, so they presumably would have a say in the film's title) clearly mean something to Brian. This isn't like some third party confused non-fan directing a film with no involvement from anybody related to Brian or the Beach Boys.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: jonathan anderle on March 27, 2019, 02:55:43 PM
I remember that during the band rehearsal footage for Beautiful Dreamer there was a moment of downtime, and out of nowhere Brian started playing the bridge of Long Promised Road. Darian and Probyn immediy popped their heads up, gave each other a "Whaaaaaat?" kind of look, and recovered in time to sing the "ba ba, ba ba" backing parts during the second line. So I guess it's something that's been percolating in Brian for a while. Darian has said that Brian loves the song and sings the bridge often, that it makes him feel closer to Carl.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on March 27, 2019, 04:17:17 PM
Brian’s version of Heaven:

https://youtu.be/dFs9DXqZdas


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: chewy on March 27, 2019, 09:21:29 PM
oh brian re-recorded it, well that changes everything- viva la movie!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Jukka on March 28, 2019, 01:29:45 AM
"Fun Fun Fun: The Story of Brian Wilson"

 :)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: MyDrKnowsItKeepsMeCalm on March 29, 2019, 07:35:13 AM
Looking forward to seeing this!



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on March 29, 2019, 12:23:59 PM
"Fun Fun Fun: The Story of Brian Wilson"

 :)


If I was smart, I'd find a great way to use "I'll bet he's nice" as movie title


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Jukka on March 29, 2019, 01:18:05 PM
"Fun Fun Fun: The Story of Brian Wilson"

 :)


If I was smart, I'd find a great way to use "I'll bet he's nice" as movie title

: D

”I’ll Bet He’s Nice - Portrait of Brian Wilson”.

If it’s about Brian driving around LA ”Honkin’ Down the Highway” would be a sweet title.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: NOLA BB Fan on March 30, 2019, 09:00:56 PM
Read the article in the current ESQ.
Said that , re Long Promised Road, Brian told "the story of when the song was recorded." He recorded a new version of it.
 Also said that the film was about "the brothers", about "how much Brian loves them."

 Oh apparently there is going to be a Mike Love documentary eventually.

Good issue!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: NateRuvin on March 31, 2019, 10:16:06 AM
I'd actually be really excited to see a Mike Love documentary if it was done well... I think Mike would have the best insight of what it's been like touring with The Beach Boys, as he's the only member that never left the group, and consistently toured for the last nearly 60 years. I really hope the documentary wouldn't be a two hour version of the video that plays before his show: all the self adoration... His autobiography was pretty good, although it omitted a lot (court stuff mainly) and came across a little bitter. Although, this may be controversial to say, but I understand his bitterness. He has basically been in his cousin's shadow for half a century. Brian's the genius songwriter/arranger/producer/instrumentalist and Mike is a singer/lyricist. Especially after Derek Taylor's "Genius" marketing strategy, I can start to see why Mike felt jealous, of someone who by all other standards was his peer, his equal. In Mike's mind they wrote Surfin Safari, California Girls, I Get Around etc together , whereas the rest of the world looks at it like Brian is the genius songwriter, and Mike simply supplied the goofy words that went on top. While this might true to varying degrees, Mike is clearly a capable and talented singer/songwriter, who in my opinion, history overlooks.

If a Mike Love documentary could "set the record straight" and tell Mike's side of the story, without coming across as braggadocios or bitter, that would be amazing. I would be very interested to truly hear about Mike's justification for touring solo essentially as The Beach Boys... I've shared my many theories, one of which is probably be correct... There's a lot of things that could be addressed in a Mike documentary, where if he cut the bullsh*t and was just honest and open, could be revelatory.

Of course , the ultimate treat , like others have brought up, would be a Beatles Anthology style documentary with both archival interviews and new interviews with all principal members as well as other notable figures like Marilyn Wilson, Dean Torrence, Stephen Desper, Fred Vail, Wrecking Crew members, past & present touring members, etc etc etc... That would be amazing. Endless Harmony and American Band are good, but they only really scratch the surface. They're overviews, but it's hard to fit so much history into so little time. That's why a multiple part Anthology series could be really cool.


New question: What are some things you'd love to see addressed in the BW doc (or future Mike doc or hypothetical BBs anthology)  ?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on March 31, 2019, 10:56:36 AM
I think both Brian’s and Mike’s books covered what I want to know. I’m just not interested in any possible ‘tabloid’ tales that any further book/books/documentary might want to tell.
I’m looking forward to the concept of LPR. Just driving around LA. However as far as Mike goes it would have been great if he joined Brian at a few stops. Between the two of them the banter would just flow I think and would make for some great footage.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on March 31, 2019, 02:36:45 PM
I just want to see chilled, relaxed Brian just shooting the sh*t about things. He seems to have a great rapport with Jason Fine as well so something along the lines of the interviews Brian did with him.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: The LEGENDARY OSD on March 31, 2019, 02:38:09 PM
Mike Love is Brian's equal ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? :bw

 :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol


Nate, I'm sure you're a great guy, but c'mon, man.  ::)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on March 31, 2019, 02:52:34 PM
Agree, saying they're equals is stretch.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: NateRuvin on April 01, 2019, 10:19:02 AM
I'm saying they're equal in terms of both just being men. At the end of the day we're all just people.

But obviously BW is the superior talent.  :bw


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Jesse Reiswig on April 01, 2019, 03:43:15 PM
Somewhat related to HeyJude's most recent post regarding the history of pitch-correction. But I always found the complaints about Brian manipulating his solo voice to be hilarious, because he did it on Pet Sounds of all records for 'Caroline, No' - Brian has always used crazy ways of manipulating instruments and vocals. I mean, if you listen closely to 'Caroline, No' you can definitely tell that something isn't right with his voice. But no one complains about that. Just an observation.

Actually, I'll be the one guy to complain about the PS album version of Caroline, No! Haha.

Once I learned that Brian's voice was altered, and then I heard the original speed version on the PS box set, I immediately felt STRONGLY that the original speed version is by MILES the best version. You lose something in the process of not hearing Brian's voice as he actually sang the song. Brian's emotions and aching longing are compromised to some degree. He doesn't sound quite right, which is especially evident when you A/B the two versions.


I honestly though I was the only person for felt that way about Caroline, No...

I'll agree with you guys as well. I far prefer the original-speed version of Caroline, No. And when I play the song, that's what I play. I just think it's far more devastating, somber and emotional. Is it still only available on the Pet Sounds Sessions box set?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: B.E. on April 01, 2019, 04:28:42 PM
Jessie Reiswig, I believe you're correct. The original speed version of "Caroline, No" is still only available on the Pet Sounds Sessions box set. Unfortunately, this version isn't available on streaming services, such as, Spotify. Also, Spotify mistitles the stereo sped-up version that's included on Classics Selected By Brian Wilson as original speed.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on April 01, 2019, 04:49:02 PM
Somewhat related to HeyJude's most recent post regarding the history of pitch-correction. But I always found the complaints about Brian manipulating his solo voice to be hilarious, because he did it on Pet Sounds of all records for 'Caroline, No' - Brian has always used crazy ways of manipulating instruments and vocals. I mean, if you listen closely to 'Caroline, No' you can definitely tell that something isn't right with his voice. But no one complains about that. Just an observation.

Actually, I'll be the one guy to complain about the PS album version of Caroline, No! Haha.

Once I learned that Brian's voice was altered, and then I heard the original speed version on the PS box set, I immediately felt STRONGLY that the original speed version is by MILES the best version. You lose something in the process of not hearing Brian's voice as he actually sang the song. Brian's emotions and aching longing are compromised to some degree. He doesn't sound quite right, which is especially evident when you A/B the two versions.


I honestly though I was the only person for felt that way about Caroline, No...

I'll agree with you guys as well. I far prefer the original-speed version of Caroline, No. And when I play the song, that's what I play. I just think it's far more devastating, somber and emotional. Is it still only available on the Pet Sounds Sessions box set?

Totally. I know it's just a matter of opinion, but I don't know how anyone can A/B listen to both versions, and say that they find the sped-up version *more* emotionally impactful or fulfilling. It's totally unnatural. It's like Murry was taking a cue from Alvin & The Chipmunks creator Ross Bagdasarian when he suggested it to Brian. Granted, Brian hasn't been modified as much as Alvin, Simon, or Theodore, but it's partway there. Unnatural and unnecessary.

I think that any listener who clings to the viewpoint that the sped-up album is the superior version is simply saying that because they have sentimental attachment from hearing it that way (and only that way) for 31 years, until the box set version was released. Or I suppose it's also because Brian said "okay" and went ahead and approved the speed change in '66 himself. But objectively, I cannot see how in hindsight it can be considered a smart decision artistically speaking. Brian in this era usually made great decisions; this was not one of them. IMHO.

Was it commonly known by fans for decades that the Caroline, No album version was in fact sped-up? Or was that somewhat of an insider secret? If people didn't realize it, I imagine they'd still feel something was a bit off with Brian's voice, but might not have been sure what it was.

I wonder if any fans attempted a homemade pitch-corrected version on their own before the box set was released. I imagine it wouldn't have been all that hard to roughly approximate, that is if they knew the science of the speed parameters that the original was modified by.


Jessie Reiswig, I believe you're correct. The original speed version of "Caroline, No" is still only available on the Pet Sounds Sessions box set. Unfortunately, this version isn't available on streaming services, such as, Spotify. Also, Spotify mistitles the stereo sped-up version that's included on Classics Selected By Brian Wilson as original speed.


That's a damn shame that it's not on proper streaming services. Good thing for YouTube and my iPod classic.

 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: B.E. on April 01, 2019, 04:57:40 PM
Jessie Reiswig, I believe you're correct. The original speed version of "Caroline, No" is still only available on the Pet Sounds Sessions box set. Unfortunately, this version isn't available on streaming services, such as, Spotify. Also, Spotify mistitles the stereo sped-up version that's included on Classics Selected By Brian Wilson as original speed.

That's a damn shame that it's not on proper streaming services. Good thing for YouTube and my iPod classic.

The tracks (stereo and mono) can still be purchased on iTunes. Weirdly, iTunes mistitles the box set as "40th anniversary".


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Summer_Days on April 02, 2019, 12:35:59 PM
(is afraid get in this conversation about ‘Caroline, No’ because he prefers the sped up version on the album)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on April 03, 2019, 12:48:13 AM
(is afraid get in this conversation about ‘Caroline, No’ because he prefers the sped up version on the album)


+1


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Custom Machine on April 03, 2019, 02:08:21 AM
IMO, Murry was correct in suggesting that Caroline No be sped up, and Brian made the right call in following his advice.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: hideyotsuburaya on April 03, 2019, 06:38:32 AM
the speeding up of CN was most probably done at the time for the 45 single release, in other words that's what Murry & Capitol felt was necessary if a Brian Wilson solo record was going to have the best radio play chance

the speed change was merely carried over when it was placed on the PS album now as a group effort


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on April 03, 2019, 07:32:59 AM
the speeding up of CN was most probably done at the time for the 45 single release, in other words that's what Murry & Capitol felt was necessary if a Brian Wilson solo record was going to have the best radio play chance

the speed change was merely carried over when it was placed on the PS album now as a group effort


I don't think Capitol had anything to do with that decision. And Murry had nothing to say about their releases (he was fired by then), it was just a suggestion by him to Brian. Brian liked it and wen ahead with it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: B.E. on April 03, 2019, 08:19:18 AM
the speeding up of CN was most probably done at the time for the 45 single release, in other words that's what Murry & Capitol felt was necessary if a Brian Wilson solo record was going to have the best radio play chance

the speed change was merely carried over when it was placed on the PS album now as a group effort

I don't think Capitol had anything to do with that decision. And Murry had nothing to say about their releases (he was fired by then), it was just a suggestion by him to Brian. Brian liked it and went ahead with it.

I don't think he ever changed his mind either. For the Classics Selected By Brian Wilson comp, he said that CN "represents the sweetest I can sing" (which I find very interesting considering it's sped-up). Does anyone recall if he mentioned it in his book?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: adamghost on April 13, 2019, 01:28:07 AM
I'm very anti-autotune/pitch correction for a variety of reasons I won't get into, but taking a step back from my own personal preferences, the best analogy is CGI in a film. Does that effect blend in seamlessly, or is it so obviously done that it takes you out of the film entirely like a cheap process shot of a giant lobster in a '50s sci-fi flick? There are many gradations in between and even I would agree there are times that you just can't get the performance and to leave it uncorrected would take you out of the song just as egregiously (though there are ways to get around this other than pitch correction).

I have a lot of trouble with TWGMTR (the album, not the song, which I like a lot) because the processing "takes me out of the movie" as it were, especially on those later tracks which are otherwise very good. I also thought the album was very lacking in top end, and at one point I took the album and remastered it myself, and discovered that when you added in more top all the processing just flew out and became blatantly obvious. So there's a sort of back door effect in that way as well - it's going to affect the overall balance of the EQ and how much spread you can get away with. I remember NPR did a segment where they played something from TWGMTR and WIBN back-to-back and the former really suffered by comparison....very thin and dull, relatively speaking, by contrast to the older track.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Margarita on April 16, 2019, 08:39:03 AM
Obviously, first and foremost, I'd like to see a "Beatles Anthology" style multi-part BB documentary covering everything.

So would I, but I don't think there are enough lawyers in the world to deal with the mess that would ensue - too many sides to too many stories.  The Beatles had the advantage of far more documentation over the years so that facts could be confirmed.

I am quite excited at the thought of Brian singing these lyrics, with his band on the backing:

"Hit hard at the battle that confronted me, yeah
Knocked down all the roadblocks stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that were binding me down"

And remember, we don't know the genesis of the song.  Brian could have been around when Carl was working on it, or maybe Carl's inspiration came from conversation with Brian.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on April 16, 2019, 10:41:13 AM
Obviously, first and foremost, I'd like to see a "Beatles Anthology" style multi-part BB documentary covering everything.

So would I, but I don't think there are enough lawyers in the world to deal with the mess that would ensue - too many sides to too many stories.  The Beatles had the advantage of far more documentation over the years so that facts could be confirmed.

I am quite excited at the thought of Brian singing these lyrics, with his band on the backing:

"Hit hard at the battle that confronted me, yeah
Knocked down all the roadblocks stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that were binding me down"

And remember, we don't know the genesis of the song.  Brian could have been around when Carl was working on it, or maybe Carl's inspiration came from conversation with Brian.


As with the Beatles Anthology, the idea with a similar BB doc would be that it would be authorized and have BRI involved as a producer, as was the case with "Endless Harmony." The downside of course is that you rarely get the most warts-and-all information. The plus side would be easier access to some archival elements and *some* publishing clearances, more clout from BRI in approaching a partner (e.g. Netflix, HBO, etc.) to finance and air the documentary, and full access to interview the members at length. They could also of course contribute photos, film/video, audio, etc. from their personal archives.

As far as legal issues with entities/people outside of the band, BRI and/or the producing partner would vet all of that through legal.

Somebody should get some prime movers and shakers in the movie and film industry to pitch a long-form BB doc to somebody like Netflix or HBO or Amazon, all of whom are throwing TONS of money at programming right now. One of the biggest costs would be clearing rights to film/video footage (e.g. TV shows, etc.), and paying for sync rights to music outside of the stuff the band owns the publishing for (meaning most of the 60s material).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: FreakySmiley on April 16, 2019, 12:56:47 PM
This whole topic has me fantasizing about a Brian album comprised entirely of songs written by Dennis and Carl...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on April 17, 2019, 05:05:48 AM
Obviously, first and foremost, I'd like to see a "Beatles Anthology" style multi-part BB documentary covering everything.

So would I, but I don't think there are enough lawyers in the world to deal with the mess that would ensue - too many sides to too many stories.  The Beatles had the advantage of far more documentation over the years so that facts could be confirmed.

I am quite excited at the thought of Brian singing these lyrics, with his band on the backing:

"Hit hard at the battle that confronted me, yeah
Knocked down all the roadblocks stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that were binding me down"

And remember, we don't know the genesis of the song.  Brian could have been around when Carl was working on it, or maybe Carl's inspiration came from conversation with Brian.


As with the Beatles Anthology, the idea with a similar BB doc would be that it would be authorized and have BRI involved as a producer, as was the case with "Endless Harmony." The downside of course is that you rarely get the most warts-and-all information. The plus side would be easier access to some archival elements and *some* publishing clearances, more clout from BRI in approaching a partner (e.g. Netflix, HBO, etc.) to finance and air the documentary, and full access to interview the members at length. They could also of course contribute photos, film/video, audio, etc. from their personal archives.

As far as legal issues with entities/people outside of the band, BRI and/or the producing partner would vet all of that through legal.

Somebody should get some prime movers and shakers in the movie and film industry to pitch a long-form BB doc to somebody like Netflix or HBO or Amazon, all of whom are throwing TONS of money at programming right now. One of the biggest costs would be clearing rights to film/video footage (e.g. TV shows, etc.), and paying for sync rights to music outside of the stuff the band owns the publishing for (meaning most of the 60s material).

A Netflix docu-series would be amazing. They’ve had some good docu-series recently, especially the series Wild Wild Country, and their Formula 1 show is pretty good.

I wonder if Ken Burns would ever tackle the subject - as his docuseries have always been Americana-centered, doing a docuseries on “America’s Band” would only make sense. And I bet such a documentary would cut to the heart of the problems with the relationships in the band - taking both sides of the argument seriously, perhaps even giving some much needed perspective to both sides of the isle.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on April 17, 2019, 07:01:41 AM
Obviously, first and foremost, I'd like to see a "Beatles Anthology" style multi-part BB documentary covering everything.

So would I, but I don't think there are enough lawyers in the world to deal with the mess that would ensue - too many sides to too many stories.  The Beatles had the advantage of far more documentation over the years so that facts could be confirmed.

I am quite excited at the thought of Brian singing these lyrics, with his band on the backing:

"Hit hard at the battle that confronted me, yeah
Knocked down all the roadblocks stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that were binding me down"

And remember, we don't know the genesis of the song.  Brian could have been around when Carl was working on it, or maybe Carl's inspiration came from conversation with Brian.


As with the Beatles Anthology, the idea with a similar BB doc would be that it would be authorized and have BRI involved as a producer, as was the case with "Endless Harmony." The downside of course is that you rarely get the most warts-and-all information. The plus side would be easier access to some archival elements and *some* publishing clearances, more clout from BRI in approaching a partner (e.g. Netflix, HBO, etc.) to finance and air the documentary, and full access to interview the members at length. They could also of course contribute photos, film/video, audio, etc. from their personal archives.

As far as legal issues with entities/people outside of the band, BRI and/or the producing partner would vet all of that through legal.

Somebody should get some prime movers and shakers in the movie and film industry to pitch a long-form BB doc to somebody like Netflix or HBO or Amazon, all of whom are throwing TONS of money at programming right now. One of the biggest costs would be clearing rights to film/video footage (e.g. TV shows, etc.), and paying for sync rights to music outside of the stuff the band owns the publishing for (meaning most of the 60s material).

A Netflix docu-series would be amazing. They’ve had some good docu-series recently, especially the series Wild Wild Country, and their Formula 1 show is pretty good.

I wonder if Ken Burns would ever tackle the subject - as his docuseries have always been Americana-centered, doing a docuseries on “America’s Band” would only make sense. And I bet such a documentary would cut to the heart of the problems with the relationships in the band - taking both sides of the argument seriously, perhaps even giving some much needed perspective to both sides of the isle.


But did Burns ever do a documentary focused on one single act? He has his new documentary about Country Music coming out this year, which will also be a multi-part show and of course not about just one artist. I'm sure he would do a great job, I just don't know if it's where his MO is.



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on April 17, 2019, 07:32:40 AM
I don't know if Ken Burns is as invested in the Beach Boys as he was in some of his other projects. I think having a filmmaker who has a deeper connection to the subject matter can also be a double-edged sword, because you may not get an unbiased delivery of the facts, but you'll also get a more personal view overall because the documentarian is ultimately a fan.

One of the best I've seen in that regard was Scorcese's take on Dylan. And, more recently, I watched Jim Jarmusch's documentary on The Stooges, where it focused on Iggy Pop himself as much as the band, and I thought it was terrific. It changed my views on Iggy in particular, and I think that's what the best docs tend to do, again like the Dylan film.

In this way, I'm thinking this latest project might be perhaps the best way to capture Brian Wilson on film. Just let the camera roll and let him talk and expand on whatever topics come up.

The other issue with the Beach Boys and any future docs about them might be the way history has been tried to be reshaped and rewritten regarding certain issues surrounding the band and band members, and if the behind-the-scenes campaigning gets into the inner workings of making a documentary about them, you may have someone on camera presented as an authority on this-or-that playing into the rewrite and having it taken as fact. Beyond that, and it's happened before so there is precedent going back decades, the members may be given veto power over the content to where certain topics would be labeled off limits for the film. I don't know at this point, especially after all that has happened, if a truly comprehensive account could be filmed.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: RONDEMON on August 09, 2019, 05:44:59 PM
Has there been any news on when this documentary will be released?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on August 09, 2019, 08:49:27 PM
Not a word


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: SenorPotatoHead on August 11, 2019, 06:56:20 AM
The non sped up Caroline No is the way to go (IMO).   It makes no sense to speed it up.  You don't want the character of the song sounding younger because it's a guy reflecting back on something that he now feels is irrevocably lost.  If Pet Sounds is a guys journey from youthful hope to adult resignation then CN ought to sound mature (and I say that lightly because Brian still sounds young in the non-sped up version) because the guy has grown - through experience and heart break, etc.  Murry was wrong, Brian (gasp!) was wrong and all of you who like the sped up version are wrong!  lol :P
And Don't Worry Baby is NOT a car song either.  
So there.  


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on August 11, 2019, 11:21:42 AM
The non sped up Caroline No is the way to go (IMO).   It makes no sense to speed it up.  You don't want the character of the song sounding younger because it's a guy reflecting back on something that he now feels is irrevocably lost.  If Pet Sounds is a guys journey from youthful hope to adult resignation then CN ought to sound mature (and I say that lightly because Brian still sounds young in the non-sped up version) because the guy has grown - through experience and heart break, etc.  Murry was wrong, Brian (gasp!) was wrong and all of you who like the sped up version are wrong!  lol :P
And Don't Worry Baby is NOT a car song either.  
So there.  

+1 :)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Needleinthehay on August 11, 2019, 05:07:15 PM
One of the best I've seen in that regard was Scorcese's take on Dylan.

That doc was completely made up, at least big portions of it..which brings up a good point, would a fake doc about the BB be worth making/watching? I feel like the reason it worked with Dylan is he has such a mystique, doesnt do interviews, people dont really know much about his life, hell he doesnt even talk between songs on stage... that most of the made up stuff couldve been true and no one wouldve known....but so much more is known about the BBs, especially with Mike constatly doing interviews,  same with Brian, etc I feel like doing the same thing about the BB wouldnt really work....


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on August 11, 2019, 05:45:29 PM
One of the best I've seen in that regard was Scorcese's take on Dylan.

That doc was completely made up, at least big portions of it..which brings up a good point, would a fake doc about the BB be worth making/watching? I feel like the reason it worked with Dylan is he has such a mystique, doesnt do interviews, people dont really know much about his life, hell he doesnt even talk between songs on stage... that most of the made up stuff couldve been true and no one wouldve known....but so much more is known about the BBs, especially with Mike constatly doing interviews,  same with Brian, etc I feel like doing the same thing about the BB wouldnt really work....

I guess I'm completely out of the loop. Could you briefly expand on how big portions of that doc are made up? I have read many a book on Dylan, but it has been a while since I've read those books, I guess I don't remember anything in that doc being out of the ordinary from what I read in the books.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Needleinthehay on August 11, 2019, 07:30:21 PM
One of the best I've seen in that regard was Scorcese's take on Dylan.

That doc was completely made up, at least big portions of it..which brings up a good point, would a fake doc about the BB be worth making/watching? I feel like the reason it worked with Dylan is he has such a mystique, doesnt do interviews, people dont really know much about his life, hell he doesnt even talk between songs on stage... that most of the made up stuff couldve been true and no one wouldve known....but so much more is known about the BBs, especially with Mike constatly doing interviews,  same with Brian, etc I feel like doing the same thing about the BB wouldnt really work....

I guess I'm completely out of the loop. Could you briefly expand on how big portions of that doc are made up? I have read many a book on Dylan, but it has been a while since I've read those books, I guess I don't remember anything in that doc being out of the ordinary from what I read in the books.

Oh, you know what, I just realized both you and guitarfool are probably talking about "No Direction Home" from ~2003 or whenever, which was great. The new one that just came out in the last month or so that Scorsese did is about the rolling thunder revue and most of the stories/interviews are fake and all made up. The archival footage is great to see and its pretty entertaining but most people who watch it dont know that its fake because its presented as a documentary....Bob tells a bunch of stories that are lies, people interviewed that were supposedly there werent there and are made up characters, etc. Still worth watching but just know that most of it is BS. Its on netflix


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Lonely Summer on August 11, 2019, 10:19:13 PM
One of the best I've seen in that regard was Scorcese's take on Dylan.

That doc was completely made up, at least big portions of it..which brings up a good point, would a fake doc about the BB be worth making/watching? I feel like the reason it worked with Dylan is he has such a mystique, doesnt do interviews, people dont really know much about his life, hell he doesnt even talk between songs on stage... that most of the made up stuff couldve been true and no one wouldve known....but so much more is known about the BBs, especially with Mike constatly doing interviews,  same with Brian, etc I feel like doing the same thing about the BB wouldnt really work....

I guess I'm completely out of the loop. Could you briefly expand on how big portions of that doc are made up? I have read many a book on Dylan, but it has been a while since I've read those books, I guess I don't remember anything in that doc being out of the ordinary from what I read in the books.

Oh, you know what, I just realized both you and guitarfool are probably talking about "No Direction Home" from ~2003 or whenever, which was great. The new one that just came out in the last month or so that Scorsese did is about the rolling thunder revue and most of the stories/interviews are fake and all made up. The archival footage is great to see and its pretty entertaining but most people who watch it dont know that its fake because its presented as a documentary....Bob tells a bunch of stories that are lies, people interviewed that were supposedly there werent there and are made up characters, etc. Still worth watching but just know that most of it is BS. Its on netflix
No Direction Home is a great one. Rare to see Bob speaking so openly about his influences, inspirations; great concert footage, too. I haven't seen the new one; if it's going to be fiction, they should have just re-released Renaldo and Clara. Bob put a lot of money into that film, i'm sure the critics would still hate it, but the fans would buy it just because it's Bob.
If we're going to have a fictional Beach Boys movie, please make it one where Carl and Dennis don't die tragically young.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Jay on August 12, 2019, 11:44:24 AM
Jessie Reiswig, I believe you're correct. The original speed version of "Caroline, No" is still only available on the Pet Sounds Sessions box set. Unfortunately, this version isn't available on streaming services, such as, Spotify. Also, Spotify mistitles the stereo sped-up version that's included on Classics Selected By Brian Wilson as original speed.
It was also released on a single disc promotional sampler of the box set as well. But since it's only a promotional item, it will obviously be quite difficult to find.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Needleinthehay on August 12, 2019, 05:56:14 PM

No Direction Home is a great one. Rare to see Bob speaking so openly about his influences, inspirations; great concert footage, too. I haven't seen the new one; if it's going to be fiction, they should have just re-released Renaldo and Clara. Bob put a lot of money into that film, i'm sure the critics would still hate it, but the fans would buy it just because it's Bob.
If we're going to have a fictional Beach Boys movie, please make it one where Carl and Dennis don't die tragically young.

I know this is off topic, but the funny thing about what you said is the new dylan documentary actually has clips from Renaldo and Clara and makes them look like real documentary footage and doesnt tell you its from a movie...pretty funny you said that


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Lonely Summer on August 13, 2019, 03:48:43 PM

No Direction Home is a great one. Rare to see Bob speaking so openly about his influences, inspirations; great concert footage, too. I haven't seen the new one; if it's going to be fiction, they should have just re-released Renaldo and Clara. Bob put a lot of money into that film, i'm sure the critics would still hate it, but the fans would buy it just because it's Bob.
If we're going to have a fictional Beach Boys movie, please make it one where Carl and Dennis don't die tragically young.

I know this is off topic, but the funny thing about what you said is the new dylan documentary actually has clips from Renaldo and Clara and makes them look like real documentary footage and doesnt tell you its from a movie...pretty funny you said that
Yeah, Renaldo and Clara was a very unusual film, seen by probably 500 people total. Part fact, part fiction, part concert film...which apparently is the same approach Scorsese took for the new film.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on October 11, 2019, 07:54:16 PM
Anyone hear anything about a release date on this?  I thought it was supposed to be this year.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on October 11, 2019, 08:06:52 PM
I was wondering about that too


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: NateRuvin on October 11, 2019, 08:23:14 PM
When I saw BW in Milwaukee, Either before or after(can't recall) BW's band perfromed Long Promised Road , Al mentioned that it was the title of Bri's move that is "coming soon"


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on October 15, 2019, 10:37:55 PM
Like everything in BB's world an announcement is made then it takes forever


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on October 16, 2019, 10:45:56 AM
I guess the makers are still shopping it around for a buyer. The market has changed as in where we once went out and bought DVDs, now it can be played on a Netflix or Amazon Prime etc. If they aren’t interested I guess the options are limited. The makers must have sunk some money into it so obviously need a good return.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on October 16, 2019, 01:07:00 PM
Some of us still buy DVDs, especially when it's BB-related.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on December 31, 2019, 03:33:53 AM
Per "Endless Summer Quarterly" - it's in the finishing stage and hopefully will get an independent cinema/festival release 'soon'

And additionally - Al Jardine reckons a Love and Mercy musical is being planned for Broadway.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on December 31, 2019, 07:11:09 AM
I actually think getting Netflix or Amazon (or HBO, etc.) on board to distribute the doc would be good, and perhaps the best move. It can still play at festivals and have a limited theatrical release (I can only fathom this doc would not even see the sort of upper range of "limited" release that "Love & Mercy" got), and then Netflix or Amazon (or similar) can get an exclusive window to stream it (and hopefully promote it!), and invariably it would also see a Blu-ray/DVD release eventually as well.

WAAAAY more people will see this doc if it's on a Netflix-type service.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: southbay on December 31, 2019, 08:39:07 AM
I actually think getting Netflix or Amazon (or HBO, etc.) on board to distribute the doc would be good, and perhaps the best move. It can still play at festivals and have a limited theatrical release (I can only fathom this doc would not even see the sort of upper range of "limited" release that "Love & Mercy" got), and then Netflix or Amazon (or similar) can get an exclusive window to stream it (and hopefully promote it!), and invariably it would also see a Blu-ray/DVD release eventually as well.

WAAAAY more people will see this doc if it's on a Netflix-type service.

Agree. Netflix, Amazon, etc. is the perfect vehicle for this.  Until I got ESQ yesterday I had the same question re what was going on and was considering sending an email inquiring if they knew anything. Thanks, Dave!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on December 31, 2019, 09:29:26 AM
I followed another independent documentary film once that took years to come out (about 7-8 years after it was 'done') as they couldn't clear the music. Netflix is full of dodgy documentaries with soundalike music that don't quite hit the mark, and I'd hate for it to become one of those.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on December 31, 2019, 09:42:19 AM
I followed another independent documentary film once that took years to come out (about 7-8 years after it was 'done') as they couldn't clear the music. Netflix is full of dodgy documentaries with soundalike music that don't quite hit the mark, and I'd hate for it to become one of those.

The idea would be that the film is fully made (more or less) and then sold to Netflix, who could infuse it with money to pay for music clearances, etc. Certainly, the moment someone decided to do a doc about Brian Wilson, they had to factor in music clearance costs.

So it wouldn't be a "Netflix Production", but rather Netflix just scooping up streaming rights to something someone else made and owns.

Netflix (or Amazon, HBO, so on) also *could* be a good partner for the multi-part Beach Boys "Anthology" style documentary I've always envisioned in my head. These streamers are dumping TONS of money into programming; if Netflix actually was a co-producer on a project, that actually increases the potential budget in many cases.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on December 31, 2019, 10:36:09 AM
Netflix seems like the perfect idea but nothing wrong with showing it in a few festivals first


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on December 31, 2019, 02:35:25 PM
Please, don't release it only to Netflix (which I don't have). At least release it to local cinema art houses, before it goes to streaming and DVD/Blu-Ray.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Robbie Mac on December 31, 2019, 03:28:18 PM
Please, don't release it only to Netflix (which I don't have). At least release it to local cinema art houses, before it goes to streaming and DVD/Blu-Ray.

Almost all of the Netflix originals wind up being released on physical media.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: MyDrKnowsItKeepsMeCalm on December 31, 2019, 07:42:49 PM
And additionally - Al Jardine reckons a Love and Mercy musical is being planned for Broadway.

Cool!



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on December 31, 2019, 08:48:02 PM
If it’s Netflix exclusive, expect it to get a lot of promotion.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: NateRuvin on March 03, 2020, 09:43:25 AM
FINALLY, some news!

Get excited everyone!

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/2020-tribeca-film-festival-brian-wilson-ronnie-wood-961222/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: DeanEntwistle on March 03, 2020, 10:26:27 AM
FINALLY, some news!

Get excited everyone!

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/2020-tribeca-film-festival-brian-wilson-ronnie-wood-961222/
Cool!!!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on March 03, 2020, 10:50:19 AM
FINALLY, some news!

Get excited everyone!

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/2020-tribeca-film-festival-brian-wilson-ronnie-wood-961222/

Fantastic!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on March 03, 2020, 12:24:06 PM
About time!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on March 03, 2020, 03:29:08 PM
Great news


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: sjeffery on March 06, 2020, 03:00:00 PM
TFF now has the full schedule up on their website. It will be shown 4 times over 4 days in 3 different theaters.

https://www.tribecafilm.com/films/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-2020


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: DeanEntwistle on March 06, 2020, 04:25:22 PM
TFF now has the full schedule up on their website. It will be shown 4 times over 4 days in 3 different theaters.

https://www.tribecafilm.com/films/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-2020
Nice!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: saborlord123 on March 10, 2020, 06:16:52 AM
I was hoping they would do limited theatrical run like Love & Mercy, but I don't think that will happen. At the very least i hope they have a blu ray or streaming release because if it's a Netflix exclusive, count me out.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on March 10, 2020, 12:46:43 PM

Great to see some news on this, i think there might be something in ESQ.

I'm looking forward to the soundtrack album, which I think will be a little like the IJWMFTT soundtrack in ways.

Finally I'll get to hear Brian's take on "Honeycomb"


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: jeffcdo on March 10, 2020, 11:12:35 PM
Any further details on this version of "Honeycomb"? I know it's a song Brian has been tinkering with for many years.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: mtaber on March 11, 2020, 05:37:40 AM
Honeycomb was first kicking around when the Spring album came out, iirc. I think Brian talked about it in an interview with Richard Williams in Melody Maker (or was it New Musical Express?) at that time.  Around that time, there was also mention that Spring was hoping to have Jackie DeShannon produce their next project. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on March 11, 2020, 09:52:50 AM
Honeycomb was first kicking around when the Spring album came out, iirc. I think Brian talked about it in an interview with Richard Williams in Melody Maker (or was it New Musical Express?) at that time.  Around that time, there was also mention that Spring was hoping to have Jackie DeShannon produce their next project. 


Brian and Mike also sang a short snippet of it during an interview while on tour in 2012 iirc. It seemed that both of them really like that song.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: DeanEntwistle on March 11, 2020, 10:07:02 AM
Honeycomb was first kicking around when the Spring album came out, iirc. I think Brian talked about it in an interview with Richard Williams in Melody Maker (or was it New Musical Express?) at that time.  Around that time, there was also mention that Spring was hoping to have Jackie DeShannon produce their next project. 


Brian and Mike also sang a short snippet of it during an interview while on tour in 2012 iirc. It seemed that both of them really like that song.
yeah, the interview is on YouTube, Brian starts to sing the song as part of a planned new tune/cover he had in mind, he also performed the song live in 2015 as an intro to I'm Broke


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on March 11, 2020, 12:28:22 PM
There definitely seems to be a Spring version

“Honeycomb” – A cover of the old Jimmy Rodger's song was cut in October '74 with Marilyn on vocals. It features Roy Wood of ELO and Wizzard on the backing track. (Wood also played on the Beach Boys' “It's OK” from the same session.) The former Mrs. Wilson retains the masters to the Spring album, as well as a number of other Brian Wilson tapes from the period.

from The Secret Bedroom Tapes article


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on March 12, 2020, 04:41:05 AM
How do we know that Honeycomb is in the movie and that there is a soundtrack?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on March 12, 2020, 12:46:30 PM
How do we know that Honeycomb is in the movie and that there is a soundtrack?

I, albeit vaguely, recall that being said at some stage in the early press around the dock. That may have changed, but when the movie is shown in a couple of months I guess we'll know.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: sjeffery on March 12, 2020, 07:56:06 PM
The Long Promised Road gets longer. The Tribeca Film Festival is postponed due to COVID-19

https://variety.com/2020/film/news/tribeca-film-festival-postponed-due-to-coronavirus-concerns-1203532234/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: DeanEntwistle on March 12, 2020, 10:47:23 PM
The Long Promised Road gets longer. The Tribeca Film Festival is postponed due to COVID-19

https://variety.com/2020/film/news/tribeca-film-festival-postponed-due-to-coronavirus-concerns-1203532234/
damn :/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on March 15, 2020, 01:16:51 PM
How do we know that Honeycomb is in the movie and that there is a soundtrack?

In the YouTube page,
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=fQWi6jzK220
Look at the first comment!

It's not just me. I don't know who Bob is but . . . we remember the same thing.

Oh, and, how could there possibly not be a soundtrack?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 16, 2020, 06:51:06 AM
The Long Promised Road gets longer. The Tribeca Film Festival is postponed due to COVID-19

https://variety.com/2020/film/news/tribeca-film-festival-postponed-due-to-coronavirus-concerns-1203532234/

Depending on whether they were planning to play this at festivals to attract a distributor (as they did with "Love & Mercy" in 2014), or whether they already had/have a distributor, that might tell us whether we're in for just a regular long wait or a super long wait on this doc.

If they already have a distributor, they might see fit to push this sooner to VOD and/or a streaming service (and then home video), because the backlog that's already forming right now due to postponements for both huge tentpole movies and indies at film festivals is such that I don't know how many smaller productions like this are going to wait out another year potentially where, in some cases, they'll only be drumming up a small amount on the indie box office circuit.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Don Malcolm on March 16, 2020, 01:49:16 PM
My best guess is that there will be a crush of material originally earmarked for festivals that will be snapped up for streaming services over the next 3-6 weeks. If 50% of the festivals affected by COVID-19 eventually wind up sitting it out (i.e., cancel) in 2020, that's a lot of material that's suddenly been orphaned and may have to bypass theatrical distribution as a result.

So it's possible that around the first of May there may be a new status announcement about many films in this situation--and one of them could be LONG PROMISED ROAD.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on March 16, 2020, 07:25:03 PM
Don’t know about the money side of things but with so many leisure activities now not an option, the thought of binge watching this and any number of delayed releases from the safety of my own home is actually quite appealing. Every cloud...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on April 19, 2020, 12:16:11 AM
Elton John, who has been interviewed for this doco, has tweeted that he's seen the movie.



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Radfahrer on April 19, 2020, 02:35:05 AM
Elton John, who has been interviewed for this doco, has tweeted that he's seen the movie.



And apparently he liked it a lot!  8)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on April 19, 2020, 02:46:17 AM
Elton John, who has been interviewed for this doco, has tweeted that he's seen the movie.

Thanks for the heads-up.  His twitter blurb links to his Apple Music radio show (episode  #238) where he briefly discusses the documentary... at around 25:00 in, he says:
He saw the film a couple nights ago.
It shows above all else what a musical genius BW is.
BW is very honest in the film. Elton has never seen BW open up like this.
When it comes out, go see it.
He then plays the original recordings of Do It Again & In My Room.
He says that Bruce Springsteen is in the documentary and of course was influenced by the Beach Boys.  He then segues into Bruce's "Hungry Heart" for which he claims BB influence (though in my opinion, it's more the opposite with HH having been so blatantly cribbed for "Getcha Back").



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on April 20, 2020, 12:44:38 AM
There's a scene in the recent Elton John film Rocketman where Elton is offered a chance to meet 'half the beach boys'... shame they didn't show any!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Summer_Days on April 20, 2020, 05:00:00 AM
In the ‘70s, Elton would’ve at least have met Carl since he did the background vocals on ‘Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me’. I wouldn’t be surprised if Elton had met a few others then. Probably not Brian though.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on April 20, 2020, 05:20:38 AM
In the ‘70s, Elton would’ve at least have met Carl since he did the background vocals on ‘Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me’. I wouldn’t be surprised if Elton had met a few others then. Probably not Brian though.

I would imagine he hung out with them here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJta6zMZKMU


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on April 20, 2020, 07:23:27 AM
Elton met Brian in 1970, I believe. There’s a rather famous story about it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Summer_Days on April 20, 2020, 07:43:31 AM
Derp, I forgot about that ‘72 ‘Help Me Rhonda’ appearance. My brain is stuffed with so much Beach Boys-related factoids that the little guys in their cubicles up their sometimes misplace things. It’s a mess up there.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: NOLA BB Fan on April 20, 2020, 08:33:03 AM
I remember seeing Elton John talking about going with Brian to his house - they went to the children’s bedroom and Brian picked up Carnie and Wendy who had been asleep, and said say hello to Elton.
Carnie has also talked about him visiting the house.

(The Elton John reminiscence was in a documentary about them and others doing a tribute album for Leon Russell)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on April 20, 2020, 09:05:30 AM
In the ‘70s, Elton would’ve at least have met Carl since he did the background vocals on ‘Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me’. I wouldn’t be surprised if Elton had met a few others then. Probably not Brian though.

I would imagine he hung out with them here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJta6zMZKMU


Or here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kve4Sp3FxvI


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on April 20, 2020, 09:10:51 AM
Elton also wrote the reissue liner notes for Carl and the Passions.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on April 20, 2020, 12:31:50 PM
Elton met Brian during either his first or one of his first trips to LA to perform. Brian invited Elton back to his house to hang out, talk music, and unless someone can refute this with solid facts, Brian pulled up the tracks to "Good Vibrations" in his house studio and let Elton hear them privately as very few have heard. Brian was a fan of Elton's first album before he got the wide acclaim he would soon receive.

So yes, Sir Elton and Brian met before Elton became a superstar.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on April 20, 2020, 12:47:15 PM
Some of you may remember Carnie telling story a couple months ago about EJ putting her to bed while he was over at the house trying to buy BW's piano.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eH_uN2-RNSw

In that anecdote, she doesn't give a year.  But from the way she describes it, it sounds like she was pretty young.  She was born in '68.  So maybe '72='74?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on April 20, 2020, 02:11:16 PM
Elton met Brian in 1970, I believe. There’s a rather famous story about it.

Elton confirms first meeting him in 1970.

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/postrock/2007/12/when_elton_met_brian.html


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Lonely Summer on April 20, 2020, 02:24:51 PM
Elton John, who has been interviewed for this doco, has tweeted that he's seen the movie.

Thanks for the heads-up.  His twitter blurb links to his Apple Music radio show (episode  #238) where he briefly discusses the documentary... at around 25:00 in, he says:
He saw the film a couple nights ago.
It shows above all else what a musical genius BW is.
BW is very honest in the film. Elton has never seen BW open up like this.
When it comes out, go see it.
He then plays the original recordings of Do It Again & In My Room.
He says that Bruce Springsteen is in the documentary and of course was influenced by the Beach Boys.  He then segues into Bruce's "Hungry Heart" for which he claims BB influence (though in my opinion, it's more the opposite with HH having been so blatantly cribbed for "Getcha Back").


I will be in total shock if Brian really has anything to say in the film. It's gonna be hard to top IJWAMFTT. Don Was did an excellent job of getting Brian to discuss various topics in that film. I was really amazed at some of the stuff he said - like talking about ego and humour.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Summer_Days on April 20, 2020, 02:40:22 PM
Elton met Brian in 1970, I believe. There’s a rather famous story about it.

Elton confirms first meeting him in 1970.

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/postrock/2007/12/when_elton_met_brian.html

Thanks for that link, I had no idea that Elton had a hand in ensuring that Brian would be honored at the Kennedy Center Honors like he was. I’ve watched a number of clips of other entertainers I like getting the Kennedy Center award, such as Bruce Springsteen, Robert DeNiro, Led Zeppelin, Paul McCartney, Carol King and Sean Connery. But only one of them moved me emotionally, to tears actually, and that was when Brian Wilson was honored. Thanks, Elton.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on April 27, 2020, 07:26:48 PM
Bumping this -- online film festival starts May 29th. Maybe we'll get to see Long Promised Road after all -- and for free!

YOUTUBE TO HOST FREE VIRTUAL FILM FESTIVAL WITH 20 PARTNERS INCLUDING CANNES, TRIBECA, SUNDANCE

https://variety.com/2020/digital/news/youtube-free-film-festival-cannes-tribeca-sundance-1234590501/



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Don Malcolm on April 27, 2020, 07:48:00 PM
Very "promising" news, Emdeeh!  :3d

Thanks much--fingers crossed that it makes the lineup!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on April 27, 2020, 08:28:41 PM
Whoa, that's great news, and such great PR for YouTube to step in. Really hope that "LPR" is one of the films that's part of this, but it almost seems too good to be true.  I hope that YouTube is making this worthwhile for all parties concerned, because for most film festival participants, the festival really isn't an end in and of itself but rather a showcase for the film in order to find distributors for theatrical release or to sell it to one of the premium cable networks for broadcast or to one of the streaming services like Netflix.  


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on April 28, 2020, 12:14:31 PM
Would be great to get to watch this soon on YouTube.

I would have to guess, even though one of the purposes of these festivals is usually to get a distribution deal for films, that most of the films showing on this YouTube event will already have distribution and in many cases will very quickly head to VOD. I say this because I can't think of an easier way to make sure a film is quickly pirated and all over the internet for file sharing than to stick a film up on YouTube, even on a live stream that isn't reposted after.

I would think this would kind of shift the film festival event to more of a "Upcoming VOD Release Showcase."

This BW doc would be a pretty good use of the current ad-hoc "straight to VOD" thing some films have already done. While studios are skittish about doing this will *huge* films that could still make hundreds of millions at the hypothetical future box office and then later *also* on VOD/streaming, etc., this BW doc was never going to make money at the box office and would have likely seen little beyond a very limited theatrical release.

The BW doc should go straight to VOD for $6.99 rental and $19.99 purchase. Physical release would probably still happen at a later date.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on May 29, 2020, 11:55:15 PM
Hope I'm wrong about this, but it looks like we're out of luck as far as getting a youtube stream of Brian's film.  I don't see it on the syllabus...
http://www.weareoneglobalfestival.com/



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 17, 2020, 03:05:16 AM
Well, Tribeca film fest is going to be showing some of its films at a drive-ins and other venues this summer.  No indication yet if Long Promised Road will be part of this, but we should know in a few days.
https://www.tribecafilm.com/news/drive-in


We love the drive in, we love the drive in.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on June 17, 2020, 12:45:31 PM
Well, Tribeca film fest is going to be showing some of its films at a drive-ins and other venues this summer.  No indication yet if Long Promised Road will be part of this, but we should know in a few days.
https://www.tribecafilm.com/news/drive-in


We love the drive in, we love the drive in.


Can someone bootleg it with their dash cam? :)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on June 18, 2020, 06:34:26 PM
Interesting. When you click on the tribeca link now and scroll down it seems there were some screenings back in April. Unaware if these actually went ahead given C19.


https://www.tribecafilm.com/films/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-2020


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 18, 2020, 09:43:32 PM
Interesting. When you click on the tribeca link now and scroll down it seems there were some screenings back in April. Unaware if these actually went ahead given C19.


https://www.tribecafilm.com/films/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-2020

Yeah, those screenings were scheduled for April but there's no way that they actually happened.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 22, 2020, 01:00:04 PM
Well, the Tribeca drive-in schedule is up.  And with only a couple of exceptions, it's all classic and semi-classic stuff like Jaws and E.T.   Only a couple of new films sprinkled in there.

No sign of LPR or any indication at all what's going to happen with the films that were supposed to debut at the festival.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Bicyclerider on June 22, 2020, 01:24:41 PM
Elton met Brian in 1970, I believe. There’s a rather famous story about it.

Elton confirms first meeting him in 1970.

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/postrock/2007/12/when_elton_met_brian.html

Thanks for that link, I had no idea that Elton had a hand in ensuring that Brian would be honored at the Kennedy Center Honors like he was. I’ve watched a number of clips of other entertainers I like getting the Kennedy Center award, such as Bruce Springsteen, Robert DeNiro, Led Zeppelin, Paul McCartney, Carol King and Sean Connery. But only one of them moved me emotionally, to tears actually, and that was when Brian Wilson was honored. Thanks, Elton.

There are some problems with Eltons recollections of meeting Brian in 1970.  First, he says there was a sand pit inside the house.  The sandbox was long gone by 1970.  And he says the house was purple - hadn’t he been forced to repaint it in 1968? 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: quad73 on June 27, 2020, 08:29:02 AM
So when will this come out?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on June 27, 2020, 12:58:17 PM
A few weeks ago, Elton John spoke on his Apple Radio show about watching the documentary with his husband and said it was amazing. He called out Jason Fine by name.

He did note that it wasn't out yet but urged everyone to go see it when it was.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 27, 2020, 03:32:11 PM
The film, like a lot of things, seems to be in Covid-19 limbo.   

In normal times, it would have had its Tribeca debut a few months back, likely followed by a very limited number of theatrical screenings this summer, followed by acquisition by one of the cable or streaming services.   Covid threw a monkey wrench into all that.  When we'll see it? God Only Knows...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: B.E. on September 02, 2020, 07:48:09 AM
Any news?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: GoodVibrations33 on September 02, 2020, 08:32:34 PM
Any news?


Back in the middle of July, I spoke briefly with Brent Wilson, and he said they were hoping to screen by next January. Seems like premiering at a film festival and generating buzz that way is still the plan.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: B.E. on September 02, 2020, 08:54:29 PM
Thanks for the update.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on September 02, 2020, 09:12:18 PM
Likewise....much appreciated


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: sea of tunes on September 03, 2020, 05:30:17 PM
Shame it can't just go straight to digital. Thanks for the update.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on November 09, 2020, 01:34:11 PM
Any news on this?  Still January 2021?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Jim V. on November 09, 2020, 03:08:33 PM
Honestly I had totally forgotten about this. I'm excited to see it, whenever it is that it comes out.

Also one has to wonder if the release of this documentary might precipitate the release of more previously unreleased BW solo material? Here's hoping for something.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on November 10, 2020, 12:20:09 AM
That’d be ace 😎


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on December 03, 2020, 12:18:57 PM
Maybe this will come out on the anniversary of the first release of Long Promised Road - May 1971.

That is also the approximate date for Feel Flows box set, so would the clash cause issues, or would the two releases feed off each other to generate more interest?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on December 04, 2020, 12:52:24 AM
It's a nice idea to sync it up with the 50th anniversary of LPR the song, but I wouldn't hold my breath.  Covid19 has thrown a monkey wrench into pretty much every movie-theater-related business plan out there.   The film festival crowd business it a day.  IMO, best case, a prominent streaming service (Netflix, Amazon prime, HBO Max) or cable cannel (e.g., Showtime) acquires it


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on December 04, 2020, 05:47:45 AM
The Sundance Film Festival is going a digital and drive-in route in 2021. In any case, I'll get this doc on Blu-ray when I can. Streaming doesn't work well for us.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on December 04, 2020, 12:24:51 PM
In any case, I'll get this doc on Blu-ray when I can.

Yep, +1


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on December 04, 2020, 04:47:06 PM
(deleted)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: patsy6 on December 04, 2020, 09:16:41 PM
The Sundance Film Festival is going a digital and drive-in route in 2021. In any case, I'll get this doc on Blu-ray when I can. Streaming doesn't work well for us.
It sounds like they may be aiming for Sundance, as it's in January.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: NickandthePassions on February 18, 2021, 09:59:14 PM
Any update on this project? Could they be waiting for a release to correspond with the interest of the Feel Flows release?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Sam_BFC on March 17, 2021, 11:56:32 AM
Anyone got a premium LinkedIn account? Someone could try a cheeky message to Brent Wilson asking on the status of the project.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on March 17, 2021, 12:02:14 PM
Any update on this project? Could they be waiting for a release to correspond with the interest of the Feel Flows release?

I'd be really surprised if that were not the case. Especially considering the name of this documentary, it wouldn't make any sense to not want to ride the wave of publicity for the FF box.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on March 17, 2021, 03:56:11 PM
Anyone got a premium LinkedIn account? Someone could try a cheeky message to Brent Wilson asking on the status of the project.

Or just comment on one of his IG photos?
https://www.instagram.com/brent310


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on March 18, 2021, 06:36:16 AM
I just sent Brent an email.  I will let you guys know what he says and if he replies.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Sam_BFC on March 18, 2021, 09:22:37 AM
Thanks Matt H.

Anyone got a premium LinkedIn account? Someone could try a cheeky message to Brent Wilson asking on the status of the project.

Or just comment on one of his IG photos?
https://www.instagram.com/brent310

Yes indeed, I don't have Instagram myself and didn't think to look if he had a public account.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on March 20, 2021, 12:22:59 PM
I just sent Brent an email.  I will let you guys know what he says and if he replies.

Brent just emailed me back, he said they are hoping to make an announcement soon.  He said there should be lots of press with all the details. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on March 20, 2021, 03:23:39 PM
😎


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on March 20, 2021, 11:18:49 PM
I just sent Brent an email.  I will let you guys know what he says and if he replies.

Brent just emailed me back, he said they are hoping to make an announcement soon.  He said there should be lots of press with all the details. 

Thank you!

Great time to be a Beach Boys fan


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Gerry on March 21, 2021, 07:47:33 AM
Now that Icon is in charge maybe they won't screw it up.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on March 21, 2021, 03:20:34 PM
Now that Icon is in charge maybe they won't screw it up.

Which begs the question of the extent to which Brian's assets, particularly from his solo years, are part of this deal.

Anyone know?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on March 22, 2021, 05:52:15 AM
I just sent Brent an email.  I will let you guys know what he says and if he replies.

Brent just emailed me back, he said they are hoping to make an announcement soon.  He said there should be lots of press with all the details. 

Brent emailed me again and said that it is important to both him and Jason that Brian's fans see this film in theaters.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on March 22, 2021, 12:10:56 PM
Quote
Brent emailed me again and said that it is important to both him and Jason that Brian's fans see this film in theaters.

I certainly "get" that from an experiential perspective, but under the not-quite-out-of-the woods pandemic circumstances, I guess that makes me less optimistic about the possibility of personally seeing the film anytime soon.  I agree that watching a special film isn't quite as special at home on TV via Netflix/Amazon/Showtime/HBO/whatever. BUT I suppose I'd have welcomed hints about a deal with one of those channels rather than something along that lines that Brent is cooking up a great little art-house distribution deal for the second half of 2022. We'll see.  ::)



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 22, 2021, 12:16:20 PM
Now that Icon is in charge maybe they won't screw it up.

Iconic bought a majority of the Beach Boys; the Brian doc is not under the purview of the group or Brother.

I would imagine one if not several outside production companies funded this Brian documentary, with an eventual distributor paying for distribution rights. Those are the parties making decisions.

While one would think/hope/assume Iconic, now essentially running the Beach Boys, would make some attempts to coordinate with concurrent solo projects, especially a bigger one like a feature-length Brian doc, ultimately I don't think this doc is running through Iconic in any way.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on March 22, 2021, 12:24:03 PM
I'm the biggest proponent around of maintaining the big screen theatrical experience, and not just for big, loud action movies. I'd love to see a Brian or BB doc on the big screen.

But holding this film for a theatrical run is dumb. Pre-pandemic this would not have seen much traffic in theaters (and probably wouldn't have hit many markets/screens), and now it'll see even less.

A good Brian doc (and I have no idea how good or bad this one might be; it would be very personal and poignant, or if could be a puff PR thing, I dunno) would make perfect sense creating a bit of buzz on Netflix or HBO Max or wherever.

If they also put it in theaters concurrently, sure, why not? Or giving it a few weeks window that way, sure. But if that's holding it up for excessive amounts of time, that seems odd.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on April 03, 2021, 10:43:10 AM
Agreed with that HeyJude. Streaming is the new 'theatre' for art documentaries.

I'm happy to be surprised on this, but I can't see people going to see this at my local Odeon/Cineworld, hotdog in hand...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on April 03, 2021, 11:32:59 AM
The state of Georgia is about to open up in a couple of weeks, so I can envision this showing at the local art house (which has been doing well with pay-per-view and private theater rentals so far). Still I expect to have to wait to see it until the DVD/Blu-ray release, like everything else lately. Streaming on a computer with slow internet frankly sucks, imo.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on April 21, 2021, 09:30:50 PM
This June at Tribecca

(https://i.ibb.co/1r2vthb/Screenshot-20210422-052645-Instagram.jpg)

Sorry for the awful screenshot, this site is not very mobile friendly


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on April 22, 2021, 12:49:03 AM
You’re right! Assuming when they say ‘have been invited back’, they mean they have accepted.

https://tribecafilm.com/news/announcing-the-feature-film-lineup-for-tribeca-2021

(near the bottom of page)

2020 FESTIVAL SELECTIONS
After having their planned Tribeca 2020 premieres canceled, the feature films of the 2020 Festival have been invited back for long awaited in-person premieres in 2021. Participating titles include:

Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road, directed by Brent Wilson


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on April 22, 2021, 05:16:40 AM
Confirmed by Brian's Facebook account:


The Brian Wilson documentary “Long Promised Road” will have its world premiere at Tribeca Film Festival this June. Dates and details to come.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on May 17, 2021, 08:02:03 AM
From Brian's Facebook account:


(https://scontent-ham3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/187306161_320980992723248_2755219649093081211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=eKDWo0txgEwAX_Ac5Gp&_nc_ht=scontent-ham3-1.xx&oh=60ef07722abb66bdef005324d9b2b8cd&oe=60C6B89E)

Brian and Darian Sahanaja in the studio during the filming of the upcoming documentary “Long Promised Road.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on May 26, 2021, 08:08:21 AM
Another one from Facebook:


(https://scontent-ham3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/192382103_326553978832616_1399269908935123902_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=E9I_sSdvZCIAX_jE-kK&_nc_ht=scontent-ham3-1.xx&oh=20224f1c340cb6a94713959c36d5910c&oe=60D36D0E)

Brian and writer Jason Fine taking a break from filming of the upcoming documentary “Long Promised Road.” The documentary premieres at the Tribeca Film Festival in NY on June 15th. There will be other screenings and news following that first showing.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 07, 2021, 03:05:40 PM
Quite a bit of new info here...
https://deadline.com/2021/06/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-documentary-tribeca-film-festival-world-premiere-1234770327/

God bless Brian for his honesty... but poor Brent.  :lol

At one point I asked Brian which of the films or shows that have been made about his life he liked the most.

“Well Love & Mercy was the best one,” he quickly replied.

“You like Love & Mercy?” asked Brent.

“Love & Mercy, yeah,” said Brian.

“This one’s got to be a little better?” Brent said hopefully. “Now what did you like about Long Promised Road, our documentary?”

Referencing its title, Brian of course answered in a way that reflects what is always foremost on his mind and defines him to this day.

“It was a good song.”


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: mtaber on June 07, 2021, 03:36:39 PM
Man, I’d love to see the entire 70 hours!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: feelintheflows on June 07, 2021, 06:11:29 PM
Another one from Facebook:


(https://scontent-ham3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/192382103_326553978832616_1399269908935123902_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=E9I_sSdvZCIAX_jE-kK&_nc_ht=scontent-ham3-1.xx&oh=20224f1c340cb6a94713959c36d5910c&oe=60D36D0E)

Brian and writer Jason Fine taking a break from filming of the upcoming documentary “Long Promised Road.” The documentary premieres at the Tribeca Film Festival in NY on June 15th. There will be other screenings and news following that first showing.


Gosh I can’t help but think if only Carl and Dennis were standing with Brian, life would be complete. Still to this day it’s hard to believe he’s the last Wilson. Very bizarre.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: mtaber on June 07, 2021, 06:55:04 PM
Brian looks phenomenally great in that photo!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on June 08, 2021, 01:30:10 AM
Quite a bit of new info here...
https://deadline.com/2021/06/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-documentary-tribeca-film-festival-world-premiere-1234770327/

God bless Brian for his honesty... but poor Brent.  :lol

At one point I asked Brian which of the films or shows that have been made about his life he liked the most.

“Well Love & Mercy was the best one,” he quickly replied.

“You like Love & Mercy?” asked Brent.

“Love & Mercy, yeah,” said Brian.

“This one’s got to be a little better?” Brent said hopefully. “Now what did you like about Long Promised Road, our documentary?”

Referencing its title, Brian of course answered in a way that reflects what is always foremost on his mind and defines him to this day.

“It was a good song.”




Billy Hinsche shared the article on Facebook as well and had this to add regarding the picture (for thos interested):

This just in regarding a new documentary - note: photo taken at The Hollywood Bowl during our soundcheck for the BRIAN WILSON Pet Sounds Tour of 2016 - and the film crew shot lots of footage that day …


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on June 08, 2021, 02:03:55 AM
"Brian also wrote a new one specifically for the movie called “Right Where I Belong,” and the filmmakers are not shy in hoping it finally is the one that lands him an Oscar nomination."

More Carl influence maybe?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on June 08, 2021, 02:12:28 AM
Sad to read this story and the fact he doesn’t remember *he* actually posted a message back in 2015. 😞

https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/music/2021/06/07/beach-boys-brian-wilson-documentary-long-promised-road-tribeca-interview/7595064002/

Later in the film, Fine breaks the news to Wilson that former Beach Boys manager Jack Rieley died years earlier, in 2015. Wilson wipes tears from his eyes, saying the revelation "absolutely broke my heart."


Brian Wilson
21. April 2015  ·
I’m sad to hear about Jack Rieley passing away last Friday. Jack was our manager in the early 1970s and helped us a lot. He wrote the lyrics for “A Day in the Life of a Tree” which blew me away. I also had Jack sing the lead on that one because his voice seemed to fit the song. Jack was a real force on our “Surf’s Up” and “Holland” albums and I’ll always remember his kindness. My thoughts go out to Jack’s family and friends.
- Love and Mercy, Brian


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Awesoman on June 08, 2021, 06:23:57 AM
Nice to see Brian is still active.  Glad to hear he has a new song in the can and another documentary waiting to be released.  Things had been very quiet with him for the most part during this pandemic (with the Colbert appearance being an exception).  I was starting to wonder about his health. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 15, 2021, 11:41:37 AM
Here come the reviews...

Film Review: “Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road” — Getting Close to a Legend of Pop Music
https://artsfuse.org/231069/film-review-brian-wilson-long-promised-road-getting-close-to-a-legend-of-pop-music/

"New documentary tells Brian Wilson's survival story"
https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory/documentary-tells-brian-wilsons-survival-story-78290700



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on June 16, 2021, 02:20:03 AM
Finally....A clip! 👍

https://youtu.be/ONE4xpSgPsQ


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 16, 2021, 07:45:26 AM

https://www.thewrap.com/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-film-review-the-film-is-frustrating-but-the-music-is-transcendent/

" ... film is apt to become wearying to all but the most diehard fans of Wilson and the Beach Boys."

Sounds like *we* are good to go.  :lol


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: DC310 on June 16, 2021, 07:55:17 AM
I had the pleasure of seeing this movie last night @ Tribeca. I found it poignant and moving. It is by far the most intimate portrait of BW I've seen (and I've seen them all). To pull this off is no small feat. Some new wonderful insights into the past, some sad ones, and everything in between. It truly feels like you are riding in the car with your buddy Brian. Jason Fine did a remarkable job getting Brian to open up (you can tell how much Brian loves him and trusts him) and Brent Wilson did a remarkable job capturing some raw and spontaneous moments, as well as weaving the past with the present. Some of the most powerful moments are not in what is said, but what is shown and contextualized. Some great stuff with the BW Band as well.

They said last night they have international theatrical distribution for Q4 2021, and hope to be able to secure the same domestically in the US. I hope everyone on here is able to see this soon.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: southbay on June 16, 2021, 08:27:31 AM
Finally....A clip! 👍

https://youtu.be/ONE4xpSgPsQ

Looks good to me. Can't wait.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Sam_BFC on June 16, 2021, 09:15:24 AM
Thanks for reports.
Any indication it might make it to other upcoming festivals?
Am hoping they have submitted to TIFF


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on June 16, 2021, 10:03:23 AM
Hollywood Reporter's review:
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-1234966499/

And ESQ's review:
https://esquarterly.com/2021/06/15/review-brian-wilson-long-promised-road/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 16, 2021, 10:08:43 AM
Glowing review from Variety...
https://variety.com/2021/film/reviews/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-review-tribeca-1234997934/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Don Malcolm on June 16, 2021, 11:56:05 AM
Billboard review pretty much in the pocket with most of what we've seen so far:

https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/movies/9587909/brian-wilson-documentary-long-promised-road

Hoping it will become available to everyone sooner rather than later...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: mtcarr79 on June 16, 2021, 01:28:39 PM
I'm starting to think 'Brent Wilson (no relation)' could become the buzz-phrase of the summer...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on June 16, 2021, 01:57:23 PM
They said there will be wider distribution coming soon, so hopefully everyone will be able to see it at least by the Fall this year. It reminds me of how they did Echo In The Canyon, I saw that at a smaller arthouse kind of theater when it was released as a limited run, and the place was packed for the showing. Then it came out on the usual streams and home releases.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on June 16, 2021, 03:35:27 PM
Very happy to see the movie getting such glowing reviews.



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on June 16, 2021, 09:20:58 PM
Obvious question, given that Brian recorded (IIRC) a new version of Long Promised Road, some oldies, and a fresh collab for the closing credits — what about the soundtrack album?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on June 17, 2021, 04:17:37 AM
Quote
As for Brian himself, he seems in pretty good shape for a man pushing 80 who still hears voices, but the truth is that he doesn’t say all that much about anything.

Jason Fine is the easygoing friend who inquires about stuff, fields Brian’s one-sentence answers, never pushes too hard, absorbs Brian’s thoughts and feelings with sympathetic understanding, and talks music with him. He brings Brian out — at least as much as one can. And the thing about Brian is that even when he doesn’t reveal much, there’s something disarmingly honest and tender about him. He says just enough to get you in tune with his heart.

I know this is going to be an amazing documentary, but I am a little disappointed to hear about this^. I was hoping that Fine would be the guy to make Brian comfortable enough to open up in a more descriptive and detailed manner when answering questions. Given how great the reviews are, I'm not expecting to be let down by this movie, but I was hoping that Brian would shake his disinterest of interviews for this one movie, too.

On another note, the amount of times I've seen "Brent Wilson (no relation)" in articles about this documentary - I'm beginning to wonder if Brent should just add "no relation" to his last name ;)

Can't wait to see this!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on June 17, 2021, 10:40:16 AM
I suspect there's just a limit, given Brian's age, memory, and physical state, to how much he's able to "open up in a more descriptive and detailed manner." I think it really depends on what you're talking about. Fine's success in the Rolling Stone pieces he did was to talk to Brian about the things he's doing now. That makes a difference. But I doubt Brian can give any more details about the '60s or '70s than he did in decades of earlier interviews, or in earlier films.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Sam_BFC on June 17, 2021, 11:30:37 AM
Yep, although:

Brian also went hardcore on the '69-'71 era in a way he hasn't anywhere else.
Depending on the day, the dude remembers -- him discussing the genesis "Marcella" was a pinch-me moment.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on June 17, 2021, 12:34:30 PM
Yep, although:

Brian also went hardcore on the '69-'71 era in a way he hasn't anywhere else.
Depending on the day, the dude remembers -- him discussing the genesis "Marcella" was a pinch-me moment.

Indeed! Although I'd note that talking about "Marcella" is different than talking about "In My Room" or "Good Vibrations" for the 5 millionth time.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on June 18, 2021, 10:09:06 AM
I suspect there's just a limit, given Brian's age, memory, and physical state, to how much he's able to "open up in a more descriptive and detailed manner." I think it really depends on what you're talking about. Fine's success in the Rolling Stone pieces he did was to talk to Brian about the things he's doing now. That makes a difference. But I doubt Brian can give any more details about the '60s or '70s than he did in decades of earlier interviews, or in earlier films.

Good point. I watched a short clip from the movie yesterday, and one of the questions Brian was asked was relatively generic - so I see your point - how many times can the guy be asked about his production method? For a documentary about Brian I totally understand the question, but I also see why Brian answers in the way he does.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Sound of Free on June 19, 2021, 07:26:32 AM
Very interesting that the only Pacific Ocean Blue song Brian knew was the "evening news" one.

https://www.nydailynews.com/snyde/ny-brian-wilson-film-commentary-20210617-r2olme7rjzbwjmzfujx3qph6tq-story.html (https://www.nydailynews.com/snyde/ny-brian-wilson-film-commentary-20210617-r2olme7rjzbwjmzfujx3qph6tq-story.html)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 19, 2021, 08:44:06 AM
Very interesting that the only Pacific Ocean Blue song Brian knew was the "evening news" one.

https://www.nydailynews.com/snyde/ny-brian-wilson-film-commentary-20210617-r2olme7rjzbwjmzfujx3qph6tq-story.html (https://www.nydailynews.com/snyde/ny-brian-wilson-film-commentary-20210617-r2olme7rjzbwjmzfujx3qph6tq-story.html)

That is one of several comments from Brian in the film that are generating "buzz" among fans.  Another is Brian's assertion that he hasn't had a friend to speak with in 3 years.  Another is that he was unaware of Jack Rieley's death.

With regard to POB, some have pointed to contemporary reports from 1977 indicating that Brian was present during playback of at least some of the album. In any case, it's not a big deal.  Brian is a very honest guy, but his memory on some of this stuff is far less encyclopedic than that of his fans.  Did Brian probably hear all or most of POB back in the day?  Probably.  Was it ever up there with 'Be My Baby' on his personal play list?  Probably not.  And lots of times we forget that being a musician is Brian's job, and how much of our own jobs do we "leave at the office"?  I can look at work that I did 10 years ago, and I have only the dimmest memories of doing it.  A lot questions directed at Brian concern events and music from 30, 40, 50, 60 years ago.  It all seems terribly important and relevant to the questioner, but it may be ancient history for Brian himself.

With regard to the statement of not having a friend to talk to in 3 years, others have pointed out that Brian has friends and certainly does speak with them.  As such, his statement might not be objectively true, but is an expression of how he felt at that particular moment.   Let's face it.  Even going back to interviews in the '60s, the man has been known to say quite a bit of stuff that could be classified as hyperbole.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Greg Parry on June 21, 2021, 09:07:58 AM
Another review, apologies if this has already been posted

https://www.spin.com/2021/06/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-review/ (https://www.spin.com/2021/06/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-review/)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on June 21, 2021, 10:09:07 AM
Very interesting that the only Pacific Ocean Blue song Brian knew was the "evening news" one.

https://www.nydailynews.com/snyde/ny-brian-wilson-film-commentary-20210617-r2olme7rjzbwjmzfujx3qph6tq-story.html (https://www.nydailynews.com/snyde/ny-brian-wilson-film-commentary-20210617-r2olme7rjzbwjmzfujx3qph6tq-story.html)

That is one of several comments from Brian in the film that are generating "buzz" among fans.  Another is Brian's assertion that he hasn't had a friend to speak with in 3 years.  Another is that he was unaware of Jack Rieley's death.

With regard to POB, some have pointed to contemporary reports from 1977 indicating that Brian was present during playback of at least some of the album. In any case, it's not a big deal.  Brian is a very honest guy, but his memory on some of this stuff is far less encyclopedic than that of his fans.  Did Brian probably hear all or most of POB back in the day?  Probably.  Was it ever up there with 'Be My Baby' on his personal play list?  Probably not.  And lots of times we forget that being a musician is Brian's job, and how much of our own jobs do we "leave at the office"?  I can look at work that I did 10 years ago, and I have only the dimmest memories of doing it.  A lot questions directed at Brian concern events and music from 30, 40, 50, 60 years ago.  It all seems terribly important and relevant to the questioner, but it may be ancient history for Brian himself.

With regard to the statement of not having a friend to talk to in 3 years, others have pointed out that Brian has friends and certainly does speak with them.  As such, his statement might not be objectively true, but is an expression of how he felt at that particular moment.   Let's face it.  Even going back to interviews in the '60s, the man has been known to say quite a bit of stuff that could be classified as hyperbole.


In the mid-90s I read that Brian had not heard POB.  I knew of a record store that still had the CD reissue from 90 or 91, bought it and sent it to Lauri Klobas, and asked her to send it to Brian.  She responded back that Brian, exclaimed "That's my brother!" when she gave it to him.  That sounded very Brian to me.  Who knows if he ever really got it or listened to it.  But he surely had plenty of times to listen to it if he wanted.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on June 21, 2021, 11:59:15 AM
There's a 1985 Westwood One uncut radio interview tape (haven't heard it in eons) where Brian is asked about the "Surf's Up" album generally and some songs specifically (I think "Take A Load Off Your Feet" might have been one), and Brian professes to have *never* heard of the album or song.

Brian's done this for ages, and it's quite debatable as to the reason. Sure, memory is a big part of it. And other times it's clearly one of his several stock dodge responses (in most interviews, if he says he's never heard a song, then he doesn't have to answer you question about it). Sometimes you have kind of interview momentum-fueled hyperbole mixed with one or both of those.




Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: phirnis on June 22, 2021, 01:02:20 AM
I don't blame Brian for not wanting to talk about Surf's Up in the 80s. It's easy to see why this album didn't bring up the fondest memories, even though many fans like it. He was not in charge of the band anymore and of course the other guys took and reworked one of his best unreleased songs to sell their own music. I'm glad it got released but that one must have really hurt his feelings at the time. I guess he was proud of 'Til I Die though, there's a 1981 interview floating around where he says it's one of his favorites.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: “Big Daddy” on June 22, 2021, 07:21:36 AM
If anyone remembers that news story from a couple years back about Brian going back to Hawthorne High and getting his grade in music changed from an “F” to an “A,” (https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2018/01/17/578583184/be-true-to-your-school-58-years-later-brian-wilson-gets-an-a-in-music) that was apparently shot (but not used) for this documentary. At the Q & A following the Tribeca screening, Brent Wilson described it as a “painful thing to cut.” Hope some of this bonus footage finds a way out some day :o


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on June 22, 2021, 07:25:05 AM
Do we have confirmation on what new songs are in the movie after it has been screened?

Right Where I Belong
Long Promised Road - Blondie Lead

There was talk of Honeycomb, is that confirmed?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: “Big Daddy” on June 22, 2021, 07:44:56 AM
Do we have confirmation on what new songs are in the movie after it has been screened?

Right Where I Belong
Long Promised Road - Blondie Lead

There was talk of Honeycomb, is that confirmed?

They show a tracking session for “Honeycomb” in the movie. The only other new studio song I can remember is an “It’s OK” that’s pretty faithful to the original arrangement. The movie also uses some songs from the vault in at various points—I recall hearing “Must Be A Miracle” and “Awake.”


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 22, 2021, 02:38:32 PM
Another review:
https://thefilmstage.com/tribeca-review-brian-wilson-long-promised-road-is-an-intimate-documentary-replete-with-love-and-mercy/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 29, 2021, 03:17:42 PM
Well, Tribeca has come and gone, and the vaunted "theatrical distribution deal" has yet to materialize.   Maybe that's still in the works, who knows, but it always seemed like something a pipe dream for a documentary like this, especially during a post-pandemic period when the movie theater business is on the ropes.   I only speak for myself, but I wish that Brent would just get it over with and cut a deal with Netflix/HBOmax/Showtime/Amazon etc., so that we can get on with seeing this film.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CAFeelin89 on June 29, 2021, 06:58:56 PM
Did Love and Mercy perform well in the theaters? I didn't even think my local theater had gotten it until it had been out for weeks. Although it would be really great, I couldn't see this documentary doing well as a mass-market theater release. Indie theaters or limited release, maybe. But I agree, streaming is where their heads should be at with this.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Robbie Mac on June 29, 2021, 11:32:56 PM
Did Love and Mercy perform well in the theaters? I didn't even think my local theater had gotten it until it had been out for weeks. Although it would be really great, I couldn't see this documentary doing well as a mass-market theater release. Indie theaters or limited release, maybe. But I agree, streaming is where their heads should be at with this.

The film’s budget was $10 million. The box office globally was $28.6 million. It played mostly in art movie and indie movie houses, which I think was the intent. I was glued to cable tv when the commercials for the film were airing and there did seem to be a disconnect between how the film was presented in the commercials vs. what the film actually was. It was marketed like a groovy, nostalgic Beach Boys movie when it wasn’t that at all. They really should have waited until Oscar season to release it. Also, putting the new song from the film on your album first literally killed Brian’s shot at an Oscar nom.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on June 30, 2021, 04:05:03 AM
Well, for now the film exists in the brains of the people who watched it at the film festival in New York. I hope it goes further than that some day.

One film I monitored about another band got stuck in licensing hell for years after its premiere - as it was full of music, the record label couldn't come to a negotiation with the producers over the use of the songs contained. Lets hope they don't have this problem.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on June 30, 2021, 04:29:17 AM
Also, putting the new song from the film on your album first literally killed Brian’s shot at an Oscar nom.

While NPP was released before the full release of Love and Mercy, one could argue that ‘One Kind Of Love’ was recorded for Love and Mercy as the movie was debuted in 2014 at TIFF. That being said I don’t know the details of the rules so you may be correct.

I thought it was due to how low the song was in the mix of the film, and how short of a time it was played on screen (Oscar rules state that at least 60% of the song must be present in the film)...I haven’t seen the film in a while so I’m not sure exactly how long it’s present on screen - but I think it’s a lot less than 60% of the song’s length. And you have to strain to even hear the song. The way they edited the song in it seems like the filmmaker didn’t even want the song in the film - which is a shame because it’s one of Brian’s most beautiful solo songs.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on June 30, 2021, 09:22:32 AM
Pretty sure One Kind of Love is in the credits, which is all it should have taken. It was the pre-release on No Pier Pressure that sank it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on June 30, 2021, 11:20:34 AM
I could be mistaken, it's been over 5 years, but I don't think the song's inclusion on Brian's NPP album had anything to do with why it didn't qualify for an Oscar that year. It has to do with how it was placed in the film too, and in this case it's playing in a scene toward the end of the film when Brian and Melinda are driving in a car, and is also used as the second song played over the end credits. There was some other factor involved in the Oscar guidelines that I don't remember which disqualified it, but it wasn't that it appeared on the album. Corrections welcome!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on June 30, 2021, 01:55:55 PM
I could be mistaken, it's been over 5 years, but I don't think the song's inclusion on Brian's NPP album had anything to do with why it didn't qualify for an Oscar that year. It has to do with how it was placed in the film too, and in this case it's playing in a scene toward the end of the film when Brian and Melinda are driving in a car, and is also used as the second song played over the end credits. There was some other factor involved in the Oscar guidelines that I don't remember which disqualified it, but it wasn't that it appeared on the album. Corrections welcome!

You are correct, sir.

From a write-up 5 years ago:

BEST SONG FROM GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINEES NOT ON THE SHORTLIST: “One Kind of Love” from Love and Mercy
Why did this song from the Brian Wilson biopic not even make it to the shortlist? Because of an Academy rule that states that eligible songs need to be “used in the body of the motion picture or as the first music cue in the end credits.” Wilson’s “One Kind of Love” was the second song played during the credits.

http://thecomeback.com/theapparty/pop-culture/music-for-the-unhip-looking-at-oscars-best-original-song-shortlist-and-nominees.html


As to the brief use of 'One Kind of Love' in the body of the film, I'm guessing that it was deemed to not meet the Oscar requirement of  "a clearly audible, intelligible, substantive rendition."

Let's face it.  There's often some measure of arbitrariness on these things.  One of the most famous Oscar music disqualifications was on Nino Rota's legendary Godfather score, which was deemed ineligible because Rota recycled some of his own melodies from an earlier film, "Fortunella."  It was very much a gray area because the renditions, tempos and instrumentation were completely new and while the melodies were identical in some places they were different in others.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on July 26, 2021, 03:25:32 PM
Does anyone know if any progress has been made in getting a distribution deal?

Maybe the producers want to absolutely explore every chance of a cinematic release before going down the streaming service route?

I'm not sure what the situation is regarding cinemas in the US at the moment - here in Australia half our population are still subject to random lockdowns and cinemas are operating at the lowest possible levels to support their staff, and that's when the authorities don't have them shuttered completely.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on July 26, 2021, 08:33:58 PM
If and when a deal is struck, I'd expect to see something on Brent's Instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/brent310/?hl=en

I certainly wish Brent and his team luck if they're still holding out for the elusive theatrical distribution deal, but I'm not sure how realistic that is in the current residual-pandemic era. Two years ago, you could get a documentary like "Echo in the Canyon" on 150 screens nationwide.  That was a different world.  I'm repeating myself, but at some point if no deal is forthcoming, just get it over with and release the darned thing on HBOMax, Showtime, Netflix, Amazon Prime etc.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on August 20, 2021, 09:56:33 AM
New Brent interview up on Brian's website.


"We will have some very exciting news to report soon on all fronts – international and domestic distribution and the soundtrack!"

https://www.brianwilson.com/brent-wilson


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: mtaber on August 20, 2021, 01:51:49 PM
Very excited about this film! Glad to still be around for this and the Feel Flows set!  Thanks to all involved.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on August 20, 2021, 02:35:04 PM
"My second attempt was to have Brian sit at a piano at Capitol Records with friends and bandmates around him asking questions as they played tracks. "


I had to think of this. Do you think this is a coincidence or was it somehow connected to the "Long promised Road" project?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0BMgIH493s


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on August 20, 2021, 02:51:33 PM
New Brent interview up on Brian's website.


"We will have some very exciting news to report soon on all fronts – international and domestic distribution and the soundtrack!"

https://www.brianwilson.com/brent-wilson

Woo hoo!!  :3d   :-D


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Amy B. on August 23, 2021, 07:21:14 AM
I could be mistaken, it's been over 5 years, but I don't think the song's inclusion on Brian's NPP album had anything to do with why it didn't qualify for an Oscar that year. It has to do with how it was placed in the film too, and in this case it's playing in a scene toward the end of the film when Brian and Melinda are driving in a car, and is also used as the second song played over the end credits. There was some other factor involved in the Oscar guidelines that I don't remember which disqualified it, but it wasn't that it appeared on the album. Corrections welcome!

You are correct, sir.

From a write-up 5 years ago:

BEST SONG FROM GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINEES NOT ON THE SHORTLIST: “One Kind of Love” from Love and Mercy
Why did this song from the Brian Wilson biopic not even make it to the shortlist? Because of an Academy rule that states that eligible songs need to be “used in the body of the motion picture or as the first music cue in the end credits.” Wilson’s “One Kind of Love” was the second song played during the credits.

http://thecomeback.com/theapparty/pop-culture/music-for-the-unhip-looking-at-oscars-best-original-song-shortlist-and-nominees.html


As to the brief use of 'One Kind of Love' in the body of the film, I'm guessing that it was deemed to not meet the Oscar requirement of  "a clearly audible, intelligible, substantive rendition."

Let's face it.  There's often some measure of arbitrariness on these things.  One of the most famous Oscar music disqualifications was on Nino Rota's legendary Godfather score, which was deemed ineligible because Rota recycled some of his own melodies from an earlier film, "Fortunella."  It was very much a gray area because the renditions, tempos and instrumentation were completely new and while the melodies were identical in some places they were different in others.

I believe this happened to Rufus Wainwright, who wrote the beautiful song "The Maker Makes" for Brokeback Mountain many years ago. It didn't quality for an Oscar nom because it played over the closing credits, IIRC. Really weird rules.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on September 01, 2021, 10:15:04 AM
If anyone is (or will be) near Nashville on Sept. 30:
https://nashfilmfest.eventive.org/schedule/611adc23244de5008270b3aa


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on September 03, 2021, 12:31:16 AM
If anyone is (or will be) near Nashville on Sept. 30:
https://nashfilmfest.eventive.org/schedule/611adc23244de5008270b3aa

And here I am locked down, confined to a 5 kilometre (~3 miles) radius of my house!!  >:(


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on September 27, 2021, 03:43:03 PM

"... acquired for distribution by Screen Media for release in theaters and video on demand in November."
https://deadline.com/2021/09/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-screen-media-november-oscar-campaign-1234845106/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on October 13, 2021, 06:16:30 AM
Will any UK cinemas be showing it?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on October 13, 2021, 07:34:03 AM
(https://cinemapolis.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/BrianWilsonLongPromisedRoad.jpg)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on October 13, 2021, 08:03:24 AM
Dannng that's a beautiful poster. May have to get that to accompany my Love and Mercy movie poster in the office.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on October 13, 2021, 10:30:26 AM
Mark London's design work? It looks like his style.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on October 13, 2021, 04:35:03 PM
Great Poster - but what about the shirt - that's trippy!!  ::)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on October 13, 2021, 05:34:24 PM
Whoa. What a brilliant design with the "road" recalling the stripe pattern of the board on the "Surfer Girl" album cover.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: maggie on October 13, 2021, 07:22:02 PM
Also, putting the new song from the film on your album first literally killed Brian’s shot at an Oscar nom.

While NPP was released before the full release of Love and Mercy, one could argue that ‘One Kind Of Love’ was recorded for Love and Mercy as the movie was debuted in 2014 at TIFF. That being said I don’t know the details of the rules so you may be correct.

I thought it was due to how low the song was in the mix of the film, and how short of a time it was played on screen (Oscar rules state that at least 60% of the song must be present in the film)...I haven’t seen the film in a while so I’m not sure exactly how long it’s present on screen - but I think it’s a lot less than 60% of the song’s length. And you have to strain to even hear the song. The way they edited the song in it seems like the filmmaker didn’t even want the song in the film - which is a shame because it’s one of Brian’s most beautiful solo songs.

Just to clarify -- "One Kind of Love" was NOT in the version of Love & Mercy that played at TIFF in 2014. Trust me, I was there. The TIFF version had "Good Vibrations" session tapes playing over the end credits. The version that played at TIFF was a slightly rougher edit overall.

The song might have been written for the movie but it was definitely released on NPP first, in advance of the June 2015 general release of the movie.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on October 13, 2021, 09:29:11 PM
Great Poster - but what about the shirt - that's trippy!!  ::)

https://www.undergroundgarage.com/shows-949-940/show-944-quarantine-qoolness-brian-wilson


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on October 14, 2021, 08:10:15 AM
Regarding "One Kind of Love", I have to imagine the filmmakers knew what they were doing and knew what was or wasn't eligible for various awards.

I gotta be honest; I think the song is fine, and seeing Brian get award noms is cool, but I can't really say that "One Kind of Love" is like A-game material. I was never bummed the song didn't get more noms.

I was far more disappointed by things like Atticus Ross's score not being eligible for Best Score; his work on the score definitely deserved some noms. It's too bad they didn't have something like "Best Adapted Score." And I would also say, at the very least, that Paul Dano deserved a nom (maybe not the win, but at least a nom) for his work on the film.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on October 14, 2021, 09:21:47 AM
I'm probably the only person in the world who thinks this, but in my opinion Love & Mercy should have received awards for costumes and set design. I'm well aware that those sorts of awards typically go to big-budget sci-fi/fantasy/comic-book extravaganzas or period war movies or period dramas based on Victoria-era literature. But darn it, Hollywood is usually really bad at getting "recent period" (30, 40, 50 years ago) right. It's really hard to do, and I'm a stickler for details (e.g., "I remember 1978, and no one had door knobs like that!").  But I'm not sure I've ever seen a film like Love & Mercy where they went to such lengths to recreate the studio scenes and costumes based an obsessive-compulsive level of attention to detail.  Brian himself noted the realism of the studio scenes and how the film had so amazingly got it right.  And let's face it, to an extent, they were even more accurate than the memories of a few of the principals.  For example, I remember when Carol Kaye, God bless her, was griping that she never wore outfits like the actress who portrayed her, there was photographic evidence that those costumes were dead-on reproductions of her actual in-studio outfits circa 1966.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on October 14, 2021, 09:40:02 AM
I agree, costume and set design were award-worthy as well.

"Love & Mercy" was a small miracle; a truly great film above all else. I don't have really any major gripe about the film. I think plenty of elements were awards-worthy, and certainly nomination-worthy. It's not a knock on Brian, but "One Kind of Love" was pretty far down on the list of things that seemed award-worthy, to me anyway.

If Brian wanted an Oscar nom for a song, I think a good model would be to shop something like "Sail Away" (from NPP) to like a Disney animated movie or something.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on October 14, 2021, 11:50:43 AM
I agree, costume and set design were award-worthy as well.

"Love & Mercy" was a small miracle; a truly great film above all else. I don't have really any major gripe about the film. I think plenty of elements were awards-worthy, and certainly nomination-worthy. It's not a knock on Brian, but "One Kind of Love" was pretty far down on the list of things that seemed award-worthy, to me anyway.

If Brian wanted an Oscar nom for a song, I think a good model would be to shop something like "Sail Away" (from NPP) to like a Disney animated movie or something.

I have to say I disagree. I think "one kind of love" is definitely amongst the very very best material Brian has ever done in his solo career. Does it compete with the very best stuff he did in his heyday? I wouldn't quite say so. But it's still quite excellent and definitely gives me the feels especially on the chorus and the lyrics about unconditional love are just very meaningful to my ears at least. From a purely emotional standpoint I think it gets my vote for it being award worthy especially when trying to tie something into that movie to get some sort of award connected to it.

That said I suppose OKOL doesn't quite fit into the modern day context of what wins awards perhaps. It's not quite as mesmerizing or filled with hooks or whatever you wanna call it, and didn't really strike a chord with the mass public in the way that they perhaps hoped it would, which if it had perhaps would've led to it winning. But I think it deserves proper accolades and definitely had a place at the table amongst whatever songs it was nominated against that year. IMHO.

That said... from a truly realistic standpoint, just in terms of thinking about what could actually win an award, as opposed to what is maybe most deserving or not, your suggestion of "Sail away" in a Disney flick  might have been a bit more logical. I'm just more thinking about my emotions here with regards to my own personal opinions on the matter.



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on October 14, 2021, 12:35:34 PM
Good news -- Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road has been awarded Best Music Documentary Feature by the Nashville Film Festival. The film is also slated to open the Key West Film Festival next month.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on October 14, 2021, 05:46:22 PM
(https://cinemapolis.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/BrianWilsonLongPromisedRoad.jpg)

Wow, this is amazing


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: maggie on October 15, 2021, 07:36:09 AM
I'm probably the only person in the world who thinks this, but in my opinion Love & Mercy should have received awards for costumes and set design. I'm well aware that those sorts of awards typically go to big-budget sci-fi/fantasy/comic-book extravaganzas or period war movies or period dramas based on Victoria-era literature. But darn it, Hollywood is usually really bad at getting "recent period" (30, 40, 50 years ago) right. It's really hard to do, and I'm a stickler for details (e.g., "I remember 1978, and no one had door knobs like that!").  But I'm not sure I've ever seen a film like Love & Mercy where they went to such lengths to recreate the studio scenes and costumes based an obsessive-compulsive level of attention to detail.  Brian himself noted the realism of the studio scenes and how the film had so amazingly got it right.  And let's face it, to an extent, they were even more accurate than the memories of a few of the principals.  For example, I remember when Carol Kaye, God bless her, was griping that she never wore outfits like the actress who portrayed her, there was photographic evidence that those costumes were dead-on reproductions of her actual in-studio outfits circa 1966.


I love, love, love Love & Mercy. I think it's a triumph. Even if I weren't a Beach Boys fan I would cherish it.

However, you have to remember what things like the Oscars exist for. It is to promote the work that is done by the Hollywood studio system. While the "Academy" has increasingly been honoring "independent" films in recent years, the truth is that things like Nomadland, Green Book, and Spotlight only look like independent films -- they were made with studio backing. There is a reason why the director of Nomadland was almost immediately hired to make a Marvel movie. Studios like Searchlight are not "the indie arm" of a major studio, as is sometimes imagined. They are more like the minor league/farm system for the studios.

Love & Mercy was made largely outside that system and even with the director's considerable Hollywood connections and the presence of stars, it took forever for a distributor (Lionsgate, an indie albeit the biggest of the indies) to pick it up, and it was barely released in a time when theatrical release was still king.

There was zero chance of it receiving any significant awards recognition. The only way that would have happened is if either it had been made by a studio, OR if it had been sold before TIFF and released that autumn (2014). TIFF is the beginning of the North American awards season, which runs roughly until Christmas.  The rule of thumb is that anything that plays at TIFF but doesn't receive a general release until the following year is not to be considered successful (although there are exceptions).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on October 15, 2021, 08:52:34 AM
I'm probably the only person in the world who thinks this, but in my opinion Love & Mercy should have received awards for costumes and set design. I'm well aware that those sorts of awards typically go to big-budget sci-fi/fantasy/comic-book extravaganzas or period war movies or period dramas based on Victoria-era literature. But darn it, Hollywood is usually really bad at getting "recent period" (30, 40, 50 years ago) right. It's really hard to do, and I'm a stickler for details (e.g., "I remember 1978, and no one had door knobs like that!").  But I'm not sure I've ever seen a film like Love & Mercy where they went to such lengths to recreate the studio scenes and costumes based an obsessive-compulsive level of attention to detail.  Brian himself noted the realism of the studio scenes and how the film had so amazingly got it right.  And let's face it, to an extent, they were even more accurate than the memories of a few of the principals.  For example, I remember when Carol Kaye, God bless her, was griping that she never wore outfits like the actress who portrayed her, there was photographic evidence that those costumes were dead-on reproductions of her actual in-studio outfits circa 1966.

I agree 100%. And having had the opportunity to speak with people who were involved in making these details come to life on the screen, the sheer amount of care and attention which went into recreating those details accurately would have warranted an award, hands down.

I'm speaking especially to the scenes from 1966, those from Brian's home, inside the recording studios, and even the exteriors. They simply *nailed* it, and in some cases where a full geographic recreation wasn't possible, it was so close and so right-on that it wasn't a distraction at all.

A few examples, from memory (and of course more details can come from those who staged all of this) :

There are numerous prop houses and rental companies who provide period-correct props and items to film and stage companies, imagine a large market with shelves full of antiques and antique home decor that is like a shopping spree fantasy for vintage fanatics (like myself). You go in with a period in mind, and the props are there to choose from. So there are some brief scenes showing a vintage stereo amplifier/receiver in the background. They not only found one which was period-correct, but the detail was so important that they made sure the unit was on, with those beautiful vintage lights on the control panel glowing and providing a unique backlight aura in the scene.

They could have used any old stereo equipment, and just had it there on a shelf. But they wanted to make sure it was not only right, but also a part of the scene even as it sat in the background. THAT is the right way to do it.   

The same kind of detail was employed when things as insignificant as the lamps and other functional furniture was chosen from the vintage prop company. Everything looked right.

And there is where another issue comes up: A famous director once commented about set design and period staging in regards to capturing a previous era. If you're filming a scene in a house from 1966, the furniture and appliances would not be from a 1966 catalog. The realism would come in showing that the house was perhaps built 20 years earlier, the appliances may not be new off the line, and the furniture could be a hodge-podge mix of older family items, a favorite chair from 10 years ago, a TV set that made a previous move with the family, etc. So his point was that a scene inside a house set in 1966 would not have furnishings and design that looked like a magazine spread or catalog staging from 1966. The realism is in showing how real families would have furnished a home.

BUT...in 1966, specific to Love & Mercy, Brian and Marilyn were wealthy and young, and had the money to renovate and newly furnish a home they had recently bought. So a lot of the design and furnishings may have been brand new, bought after consulting a designer perhaps, and most likely more new than the old. So that contradicts what the director's point was about showing realism in vintage set design: Young couples with money and a new house would probably have more brand new items than they would old pieces or hand-me-downs in that home because they could afford to do so and would host parties and gatherings where that stuff mattered. And again, I think the L&M film showed that very well.

One key detail that has been mentioned here before but which might be missed: When the camera action is showing the studio floor during a session, and the musicians are playing, take special note of the audio track. The tracks are bone-dry and heard "live", exactly as they would be if we were sitting in the studio with the musicians. You don't hear tape echo, you don't hear wide reverb, you don't hear a "mix" of the instruments playing as you would on a record...until the scene cuts to the control booth where Brian is monitoring all the sounds going through the board.

Unlike many music-based movies, where they show the studio scenes and it sounds like a fully mixed record playing over it, L&M tried to get exactly what the musicians and others in the actual studio heard during the sessions, relevant even to which part of the studio they were in.

Another minor detail that is major for musicians is if there were a way to zoom in on the sheet music the musicians are reading in the studio, the charts on the stands are the actual songs they're playing. Again a very minor detail no one notices, but that's how much care was put into doing these scenes accurately and respectfully.

The Carole Kaye comments were unfortunate, especially considering what was actually done for and shown in the film and in the backstage pre-production and details to show respect for Carole and to pay tribute to her contributions to the music, and the fact that a working musician rather than a pro actress was hired to play the part, and could and did play the actual bass lines on camera. Again as much as I respect Carole for what she did musically, she got this one wrong, and it was unfortunate.

What was even more unfortunate was having a former poster on this board sending messages to other members here saying how many scenes got it wrong, and what they got wrong, etc and it seemed to be mostly about Melinda Wilson's scenes...and in reality that former poster was the one that was wrong on all of it. But we'll leave it at that.

Just wanted to add some more detail to those details in the film, and there are many more to be highlighted or pointed out. It was an amazing accomplishment, and I agree there should have been awards given. The attention to set design and period detail was stunning, and along with Mad Men is perhaps one of the best uses of period design and obsessive detail I've seen in the past 20 years.

And that's not even mentioning the costumes!  :)



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on October 15, 2021, 02:06:22 PM
And there is where another issue comes up: A famous director once commented about set design and period staging in regards to capturing a previous era. If you're filming a scene in a house from 1966, the furniture and appliances would not be from a 1966 catalog. The realism would come in showing that the house was perhaps built 20 years earlier, the appliances may not be new off the line, and the furniture could be a hodge-podge mix of older family items, a favorite chair from 10 years ago, a TV set that made a previous move with the family, etc. So his point was that a scene inside a house set in 1966 would not have furnishings and design that looked like a magazine spread or catalog staging from 1966. The realism is in showing how real families would have furnished a home.

Yes, that's exactly right.  And it's hard work.  You need to go back and look at candid photos and home movies from the period, not Architectural Digest or Hollywood productions of that earlier era as they present a stylized version of the then-current reality.  It's the same thing with vehicles.  If you want to do a street scene of 1966, you don't fill up the scene with 1966 model-year cars.  Maybe one guy on the street has a brand-new car, but other cars will be 5, 10, 20 years old.  And a certain laziness that you see in many period productions doesn't account for that.

But, yeah, "Love & Mercy" absolutely hit it out of the ballpark in this regard.   Think about the scenes of Mike Love wearing gloves while recording vocals.  That is the kind of detail that only people reading this board are likely to notice and say, "Whoa, nicely done. I can't believe that they reproduced that particular detail."    Does it matter?  Some might say, "Who cares?"   But I think it does matter.  Getting the little things right adds to the authenticity and credibility of the film as a whole.   Doing that to an obsessive level of detail, as they did in Love & Mercy, takes it to an entirely different level and speaks very well to the integrity of the filmmakers.


Title: Brian Wilson In Atlantic City
Post by: parlay on October 18, 2021, 10:34:19 AM

I saw the " Great Brian Wilson' on Saturday night in Atlantic City and must say this was the best I have seen him perform in a long time.  I have previously seen Brian 's  band 68 times but Saturday show  was unreal!   First off the band was very solid as usual- pitch tones and instrumentals terrific- Blondie Al Matt and Darien were great on the individual songs they performed. . In the middle of show Blondie came on stage and performed a 3 song set leading with Feel Flows and dedicating it to Carl- saying (where are you Carl).  He then did Long Promised Road and closed his individual set with Sail on Sailor (masterful!!!)  Al's voice was the same as if he were still in the 70"s especially on Help Me Rhonda.  Matt hit all the high parts perfectly as he sang Don't Worry Baby never missing a beat and Darien was excellent as always singing Darling.

Brian was assisted on and off stage with the assistance of a walker and two aides.  The Band opened the show with California Girls and  Brian's voice was excellent all night long.  Brian seemed very relaxed throughout the show singing and not talking the lyrics. He really was very strong on songs like It Ok, Do it Again, and Please Let Me Wonder and the groups background harmonies on that song were spot on as usual. After each solo song by the other performers, Brian would call out the vocalists saying things like the "great"  Matt Jardine" etc   Of course he brought the entire audience on their feet with God Only Knows and the crowd clapped and yelled for at least 2 minutes.  Band remained onstage prior to the encore for the individual introductions and Brian then closed the show with Love and mercy.  Truly a great show and now we are off to Greensburg and Akron for shows later this week!!!!!

If you get a chance try to see Brian when he comes to your area- if other shows are as good as Saturday I guarantee you will not be disappointed.


 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson In Atlantic City
Post by: MyDrKnowsItKeepsMeCalm on October 18, 2021, 07:44:24 PM

I saw the " Great Brian Wilson' on Saturday night in Atlantic City and must say this was the best I have seen him perform in a long time.  I have previously seen Brian 's  band 68 times but Saturday show  was unreal!   First off the band was very solid as usual- pitch tones and instrumentals terrific- Blondie Al Matt and Darien were great on the individual songs they performed. . In the middle of show Blondie came on stage and performed a 3 song set leading with Feel Flows and dedicating it to Carl- saying (where are you Carl).  He then did Long Promised Road and closed his individual set with Sail on Sailor (masterful!!!)  Al's voice was the same as if he were still in the 70"s especially on Help Me Rhonda.  Matt hit all the high parts perfectly as he sang Don't Worry Baby never missing a beat and Darien was excellent as always singing Darling.

Brian was assisted on and off stage with the assistance of a walker and two aides.  The Band opened the show with California Girls and  Brian's voice was excellent all night long.  Brian seemed very relaxed throughout the show singing and not talking the lyrics. He really was very strong on songs like It Ok, Do it Again, and Please Let Me Wonder and the groups background harmonies on that song were spot on as usual. After each solo song by the other performers, Brian would call out the vocalists saying things like the "great"  Matt Jardine" etc   Of course he brought the entire audience on their feet with God Only Knows and the crowd clapped and yelled for at least 2 minutes.  Band remained onstage prior to the encore for the individual introductions and Brian then closed the show with Love and mercy.  Truly a great show and now we are off to Greensburg and Akron for shows later this week!!!!!

If you get a chance try to see Brian when he comes to your area- if other shows are as good as Saturday I guarantee you will not be disappointed.
 

Great to hear. Thanks for the review!



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: terrei on October 23, 2021, 07:09:43 PM
Tasteful. I'm glad they didn't rehire the guy who did the unfortunate Feel Flows cover.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on October 26, 2021, 12:03:19 PM
New article and film trailer from Rolling Stone:

BRIAN WILSON VISITS BEACH BOYS LANDMARKS AND REFLECTS ON CAREER IN NEW DOC TRAILER
Long Promised Road will feature interviews with Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Nick Jonas, and more

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-documentary-trailer-1248160/

The trailer is also on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BqrMWxMnnw


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on October 26, 2021, 12:42:48 PM
New article and film trailer from Rolling Stone:

BRIAN WILSON VISITS BEACH BOYS LANDMARKS AND REFLECTS ON CAREER IN NEW DOC TRAILER
Long Promised Road will feature interviews with Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Nick Jonas, and more

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/brian-wilson-long-promised-road-documentary-trailer-1248160/

The trailer is also on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BqrMWxMnnw







NICE!!!
And we can hear some parts of the new song, including a killer Matt Jardine (?) falsetto


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on October 26, 2021, 02:01:12 PM
Important note at the end of that: special fans screenings 17th November, opening 19th November.

Where are these fans screenings then?

Also noting that it opens the same day as Ghostbusters Afterlife which personally makes me happy :)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on October 26, 2021, 02:03:32 PM
OK here are the screenings you can book, America only https://screenmediafilms.net/film/3370/Brian-Wilson-Long-Promised-Road


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on October 26, 2021, 02:09:11 PM
And here's the "finished" version of that second poster with all of the pertinent text:

(https://assemble.imgix.net/3370/poster.jpg?w=1200)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on October 26, 2021, 03:40:04 PM
Amazing! Can’t wait to see this.

That song sounds incredible.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on November 05, 2021, 08:41:33 AM
Brian Wilson, Brent Wilson, and Jason Fine are doing an in-person Q&A at The Landmark Theatre in Los Angeles on Nov. 17. Details here:
https://www.landmarktheatres.com/los-angeles/the-landmark/film-info/brian-wilson-long-promised-road


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: MyDrKnowsItKeepsMeCalm on November 05, 2021, 12:53:05 PM
The trailer is also on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BqrMWxMnnw

This looks great!



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on November 05, 2021, 08:44:47 PM
Trailer look great, song sounds great  ;D


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 08, 2021, 04:27:02 AM
Any word of international screenings?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on November 08, 2021, 11:13:50 AM
Several stories from Oct 27 say it will be released in theatres and ‘on demand’ the same day, but no provider mentioned. Will have to wait and see.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on November 08, 2021, 12:48:38 PM
When I see that poster I always am reminded of that screen from Presley's '68 Comeback:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpoaO6yOGHk


Then again it looks like the surfboard from "Surfin' Safari" / "Surfer Girl" only with yellow and blue taken each other's place.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 09, 2021, 04:14:05 AM
Several stories from Oct 27 say it will be released in theatres and ‘on demand’ the same day, but no provider mentioned. Will have to wait and see.

And if it’s not available in your country (via streaming service), I think you can use a VPN and switch your connection to a country that does have the stream available.

I hope it’s available for purchase on iTunes…as convenient as streaming is, I’d also like to monetarily support this kind of movie.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on November 09, 2021, 06:15:49 AM
Several stories from Oct 27 say it will be released in theatres and ‘on demand’ the same day, but no provider mentioned. Will have to wait and see.

In terms of being available "on demand", that should mean it's available on all platforms that allow rentals of individual titles. So that would include Amazon, Apple/iTunes, Vudu, probably Redbox (the streaming component, not the physical kiosks), and others, as well as via individual cable TV providers on their respective "on demand" services.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on November 09, 2021, 06:19:47 AM
Several stories from Oct 27 say it will be released in theatres and ‘on demand’ the same day, but no provider mentioned. Will have to wait and see.

And if it’s not available in your country (via streaming service), I think you can use a VPN and switch your connection to a country that does have the stream available.

I hope it’s available for purchase on iTunes…as convenient as streaming is, I’d also like to monetarily support this kind of movie.

I don't think the movie is going straight to subscription streaming (e.g. Netflix, HBO Max, Peacock, etc.); it's probably going to be around a $6.99 rental on all digital services that currently sell individual title rentals. I'm guessing it's probably only going to be a rental, not a purchase at first.

They could be going the route of a "Premium VOD" like relatively "major" day-and-date theatrical releases that are immediately available online, but that would mean like a $20 *one-time rental* fee, and I don't think this documentary is a enough of a high profile release to justify that.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 09, 2021, 09:32:58 AM

I hope it’s available for purchase on iTunes…as convenient as streaming is, I’d also like to monetarily support this kind of movie.

Films that get a deal with a monthly subscription type streamer still get paid, just it'll be a lump sum or perhaps based on views. Or in other words, I don't know if paying per-time like on iTunes or Prime is better or worse for them than being on Netflix or HBO


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on November 09, 2021, 09:52:51 AM

I hope it’s available for purchase on iTunes…as convenient as streaming is, I’d also like to monetarily support this kind of movie.

Films that get a deal with a monthly subscription type streamer still get paid, just it'll be a lump sum or perhaps based on views. Or in other words, I don't know if paying per-time like on iTunes or Prime is better or worse for them than being on Netflix or HBO

The typical course for a film is to capitalize on both revenue streams, and others potentially. The typical scenario pre-pandemic is for a film to first hit theatrical (if it's going exclusively theatrical to start with), then it becomes available for digital *purchase*, then it comes available for physical purchase and digital and physical rentals. Then,  at some point after, it goes to a subscription-based streaming service platform.

There are exceptions to this, mainly consisting of original films produced *by* streaming services that are exclusive to those services (e.g. Amazon Prime, Disney+, Netflix, etc.).

A variation that I'm guessing the BW doc is going to use is one that existed pre-pandemic, which is to go day-and-date for theatrical and digital rental, with the rental price being a bit higher than a typical digital rental (e.g. $6.99 instead of $5.99). It's essentially mostly a "straight to video" model, but for digital/on-demand only. Any concurrent theatrical run is not expected to make much money. And from there, I'd expect eventually to see the BW doc available for both digital and physical *purchase*, and probably eventually on some subscription streaming service.

Things are changing in the last 1-2 years to some degree with some big movies going to straight to various iterations of digital ("Premium VOD" where you pay $20 to $30 to *rent* a film), but it looks like most films are already and/or will soon go back to having at least *some* type of theatrical window. It looks like a lot of studios are going to 30 or 45-day windows, at which point they then go the normal scenario as described above, sometimes with an intermediate step of having the film as a "Premium VOD" rental after that initial theatrical window (for instance, starting today the new Bond film can be rented for $20).

I think the BW doc would have bypassed all of this either way. A niche documentary is the sort of thing that even pre-pandemic would have had a small theatrical run and a concurrent VOD release as well, with the digital and physical purchase options still happening later, followed by a subscription service.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on November 09, 2021, 11:13:21 AM
Listed on Rotten Tomatoes as being available on Vudu Nov 19 and a pre-order /trailer page on the Vudu website. $14.95

https://www.vudu.com/content/movies/details/Brian-Wilson-Long-Promised-Road/1947838?cmp=rt_where_to_watch


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on November 09, 2021, 03:20:53 PM
It looks like $14.99 is likely the price to purchase.

It may still be available to rent for less, but they obviously can't sell a rental as "pre-order." We'll probably have to wait until the 19th to see.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 09, 2021, 03:22:17 PM
Listed on Rotten Tomatoes as being available on Vudu Nov 19 and a pre-order /trailer page on the Vudu website. $14.95

https://www.vudu.com/content/movies/details/Brian-Wilson-Long-Promised-Road/1947838?cmp=rt_where_to_watch

Well spotted, thank you. The site needs a US VPN to open in the U.K., and I would assume some/all other non-US countries.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on November 09, 2021, 05:10:18 PM
It looks like $14.99 is likely the price to purchase.

It may still be available to rent for less, but they obviously can't sell a rental as "pre-order." We'll probably have to wait until the 19th to see.

To paraphrase the Magilla Gorilla theme song -

 Take our advice
 At any price
 A Brian Wilson documentary is mighty nice!



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Margarita on November 13, 2021, 03:17:07 PM
I'm highly annoyed that there isn't a LPR screening in or anywhere near Chicago.  The usual theaters for such events - including The Music Box, where we saw a fan preview of L&M with a Q&A by John Cusack and BW afterwards - do not have it listed.  
My mother, who lives in New Jersey, just told me about a screening that is on 11/17 in Asbury Park.  This is not listed on the Screen Media site.  


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on November 14, 2021, 08:13:10 PM
Thought I'd share the Apple+/iTunes link:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/brian-wilson-long-promised-road/id1592595798?ign-mpt=uo%3D4


While I'm at it - I hadn't realised this was on iTunes as well:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/brian-wilson-i-just-wasnt-made-for-these-times/id290374626


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 15, 2021, 10:34:32 AM
Thought I'd share the Apple+/iTunes link:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/brian-wilson-long-promised-road/id1592595798?ign-mpt=uo%3D4


While I'm at it - I hadn't realised this was on iTunes as well:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/brian-wilson-i-just-wasnt-made-for-these-times/id290374626

Thank you!!!! November 19th is going to be a wonderful Brian Wilson filled day for me!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 15, 2021, 12:30:13 PM
Still no legal way of purchasing or watching in UK:(


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 16, 2021, 12:01:28 PM
Another US host https://ondemand.spectrum.net/movies/20749079/brian-wilson-long-promised-road/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: B.E. on November 17, 2021, 03:52:06 PM
I'm highly annoyed that there isn't a LPR screening in or anywhere near Chicago.  The usual theaters for such events - including The Music Box, where we saw a fan preview of L&M with a Q&A by John Cusack and BW afterwards - do not have it listed.  
My mother, who lives in New Jersey, just told me about a screening that is on 11/17 in Asbury Park.  This is not listed on the Screen Media site.  

I hadn't heard about the showing in Asbury Park until you mentioned it. At the time, 19 of the 25 seats were still available. Now it's sold out and they've added 11 additional showings over the next week. I wonder if you helped get the word out better than their social media and whatever newspaper it was in!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shady on November 17, 2021, 05:10:35 PM
Really annoying not being able to watch this


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 17, 2021, 05:15:21 PM
Really annoying not being able to watch this

Are you able to use a VPN?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: shadownoze on November 17, 2021, 09:17:29 PM
Just got back from seeing the film. Only nine people in the theater...
I have to admit I did not have high hopes for the movie. Even the trailer didn't seem to show that Brian was much more forthcoming than he normally is in interviews. And, in truth, there are not many new revelations in this documentary...
But I loved it.
It's incredibly well-done and this will be the thing to show people who don't know why Brian Wilson matters. The celebrity interviews are deeper and more insightful than usual; and it was a surprise to hear Springsteen talk knowingly about Pet Sounds and even Smile.
More than anything else, it'll make you want to give Brian a big hug. His life story is covered very well and the sadness in his eyes is heart-rending. There are, however, a couple of laugh-out-loud moments that are really indicative of the true Brian.
Technically, the movie is gorgeous. Every old photo looks amazing, and the skillful use of instrumental and a cappella tracks is very impressive. Don Was is shown playing the vocals-only tag of God Only Knows and it is so amazing that he laughs out loud and says something like, "I've been making music for more than 40 years...and I don't know how to do THAT...NOBODY knows how to do that!"
In short, it's a great look at the great BW; I could watch it again right now and enjoy it just as much.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 18, 2021, 05:57:43 AM
Thanks so much for the review! I can’t wait to see this - just one more day. I wish I could’ve seen it in theaters but there wasn’t really a local option for me.

I have so many questions but I also don’t want to spoil any surprises.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on November 18, 2021, 08:08:48 AM
I had the profound pleasure of seeing the film at the Laemmle theater in Westwood last night along with a post-film Q&A by Brent Wilson, Jason Fine, and Brian Wilson.

In a nutshell, the film is a GAME CHANGER. It's a truly worthy (and very different) documentary counterpart to Love & Mercy. For anybody learning about the story of Brian Wilson, *both* of these superb films are absolute must-sees.

Among many other unexpected firsts that this film shows, latter day Brian is seen in the studio fully in charge, kicking butt, very much engaged, getting stuff done, which definitely goes a ways to prove how much confidence and self sufficiency Brian Wilson still has at this time in his life when he's feeling it. The amount of empathy gained for what Brian has to go through on a daily basis to deal with the voices in his head is quite profound.

There have been many people who over the years have claimed otherwise, and many assumptions by fans have been spoken about how Brian doesn't do anything much in the studio and lets people do everything for him…, but this film proves Brian has still got it, which as the filmmakers noted afterwards in the Q&A was shown in the film virtually live and mostly unedited just as the events happened in front of them.

The film is a brave piece of filmmaking, and many raw moments that might be considered a bit surprising that they let in the film were right there for the audience to see. Both in terms of raw sounding latter-day live performances, and also just in terms of Brian physically looking like a dude who is almost 80 and has lived a hard life in many ways, you're going to see some stuff on film that isn't sugarcoated and I really appreciate that they let this level of honesty into the film.

The new song heard in the film "Right Where I Belong" is super, and I think most people would agree it's among the best top shelf songs in his solo career.

Brian speaks about topics that you would not expect him to speak about, and so much of the credit goes to Jason Fine for setting a comfortable tone and environment which Brian was extraordinarily responsive to.

Brian Wilson is very much still there, but it takes the right environment for him to come out of his shell - and this film provides such an environment in a way that I think will be stunning for people to see. It's unlike any documentary ever done about Brian; in my opinion it was made with a similar level of filmmaking artistry, emotion, and craft that Love & Mercy was made with, which is a rare compliment.

I can't wait to hear what everybody else about the film once they see it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Dan Lega on November 18, 2021, 02:26:08 PM
Hey!  I got to see "Long Promised Road" in the theater last night!

It was very moving, and very well put together. 

But... the idea that Brian opened up while driving around in the car doesn't really pan out.  He pretty much gives his usual short answers and repeats many answers he's given before.  (Such as "We shelved SMiLE because it was ahead of its time and so we waited 40 years for when people could appreciate it".)

Now... that's not to say there aren't a lot of poignant moments that come out of Jason Fine's interviews in the car, but for the most part Brian appears just as shut down with this method of interviewing as he is with usual interviews and interviewers.

Still definitely worth seeing though!

<SPOILER ALERT>

Especially for the music. There were definitely shots of Brian and the gang recording songs that haven't been released yet!  One was called "Honeycomb", but I couldn't tell if it was the "Honeycomb" that was released in the 50's or 60's, or if this was a brand new song by Brian. 

There were other songs that sounded like Brian originals, but I couldn't tell if all of them were previously released or if they were new.

One thing that I didn't expect... Brian seems to really like "It's OK"!  He requests it to be played while driving in the car numerous times.  AND THEN... they show him recording it in the studio!  What's even weirder?  They had shown Brian on a Pet Sounds tour doing his talk/singing for the songs.  Then they show him re-recording "It's OK" and he sings it beautifully!  I... could... not... believe... it!

He re-records "Long Promised Road", too, and delivers a few of the lines perfectly!  If only there were someone who Brian trusted enough to tell him when a line wasn't perfect and when it was, and got him to keep working on it until it was perfect.  Because it appears that with a little concentration he still has the chops to deliver a great vocal!

Definitely go see it if you have the chance!  (Though that chance in the theaters may be gone as it appeared to play for one time only in a lot of cities on Wednesday night, November 17, 2021.)

Love and merci,
Dan Lega


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Bedroom Tapes on November 19, 2021, 01:40:55 AM
There's at least half of an album in there with new songs and covers sprinkled throughout this outstanding documentary!  Hoping for an official soundtrack soon.  *fingers crossed*


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Aomdiddlywalla on November 19, 2021, 02:04:08 AM
'If only there were someone who Brian trusted enough to tell him when a line wasn't perfect and when it was, and got him to keep working on it until it was perfect'

Anyone got Steve Levine's phone number?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 19, 2021, 03:33:13 AM
Thanks for all the reviews! I’m so glad it is getting positive feedback. I’ve got it ordered on iTunes and later today I’ll sit down to watch.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: pudge104 on November 19, 2021, 07:05:36 AM
According to the documentary’s official Instagram, the soundtrack comes out next Friday.  I asked about it under the most recent post.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: JakeH on November 19, 2021, 11:00:12 AM
I had the profound pleasure of seeing the film at the Laemmle theater in Westwood last night along with a post-film Q&A by Brent Wilson, Jason Fine, and Brian Wilson.

In a nutshell, the film is a GAME CHANGER. It's a truly worthy (and very different) documentary counterpart to Love & Mercy. For anybody learning about the story of Brian Wilson, *both* of these superb films are absolute must-sees.

Among many other unexpected firsts that this film shows, latter day Brian is seen in the studio fully in charge, kicking butt, very much engaged, getting stuff done, which definitely goes a ways to prove how much confidence and self sufficiency Brian Wilson still has at this time in his life when he's feeling it. The amount of empathy gained for what Brian has to go through on a daily basis to deal with the voices in his head is quite profound.

There have been many people who over the years have claimed otherwise, and many assumptions by fans have been spoken about how Brian doesn't do anything much in the studio and lets people do everything for him…, but this film proves Brian has still got it, which as the filmmakers noted afterwards in the Q&A was shown in the film virtually live and mostly unedited just as the events happened in front of them.

The film is a brave piece of filmmaking, and many raw moments that might be considered a bit surprising that they let in the film were right there for the audience to see. Both in terms of raw sounding latter-day live performances, and also just in terms of Brian physically looking like a dude who is almost 80 and has lived a hard life in many ways, you're going to see some stuff on film that isn't sugarcoated and I really appreciate that they let this level of honesty into the film.

The new song heard in the film "Right Where I Belong" is super, and I think most people would agree it's among the best top shelf songs in his solo career.

Brian speaks about topics that you would not expect him to speak about, and so much of the credit goes to Jason Fine for setting a comfortable tone and environment which Brian was extraordinarily responsive to.

Brian Wilson is very much still there, but it takes the right environment for him to come out of his shell - and this film provides such an environment in a way that I think will be stunning for people to see. It's unlike any documentary ever done about Brian; in my opinion it was made with a similar level of filmmaking artistry, emotion, and craft that Love & Mercy was made with, which is a rare compliment.

I can't wait to hear what everybody else about the film once they see it.

Thanks for the report.  Anything else interesting occur during the Q&A, aside from what you mentioned above?


In a nutshell, the film is a GAME CHANGER. It's a truly worthy (and very different) documentary counterpart to Love & Mercy. For anybody learning about the story of Brian Wilson, *both* of these superb films are absolute must-sees.

[***]

Brian speaks about topics that you would not expect him to speak about, and so much of the credit goes to Jason Fine for setting a comfortable tone and environment which Brian was extraordinarily responsive to.

[***]

Brian Wilson is very much still there, but it takes the right environment for him to come out of his shell - and this film provides such an environment in a way that I think will be stunning for people to see.


I thought the doc was good - well made and sincere - probably, as is usually the case - intended for viewers who don't know too much about the Beach Boys or Brian Wilson but who might be interested to learn more.  At the same time, for more seasoned and/or knowledgeable viewers, it's still worthwhile. You have to assume this is the last Brian Wilson documentary - kind of an updating of the Don Was doc from the 1990s (but with a new set of talking heads attesting to Brian's greatness, including notably, conductor Gustavo Dudamel of the L.A. Phil likening Pet Sounds to a song cycle by Mahler or Schubert lieder) and as somebody already said somewhere, a kind of addendum to the 2015 movie.

I disagree with the idea that Brian speaks about topics you wouldn't expect him to speak about, and I disagree that Brian "came out of his shell" or was "extraordinarily responsive" to any of Jason Fine's comments and gentle prodding.  Keep in mind, though, that as early as 1967, David Anderle accurately assessed Brian as "nonverbal" or a "nonverbal human" who "doesn't talk." That aspect of Brian has always been there, and over time - due significantly to the way the circumstances of his life and the kinds of people who he was surrounded by drove him further and further inward - it has intensified to the point where he is scarcely communicative at all in any kind of public or semi-public situation.  Hopefully watchers of the new documentary will understand that Brian is not there in the movie to provide answers for us or to explain - he has done enough of that already over the years in various forms - but is there in the movie just to be there. (the cynical viewpoint is that he is again being exploited in this film by his "handlers")  It's up to the viewers to be curious enough to wonder why Brian is the way he is, and what happened over the course of his life. The doc doesn't provide answers (it shows the "what" but is light on "why") and shouldn't necessarily be expected to do so.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on November 19, 2021, 12:34:11 PM
Anyone outside the US actually able to buy or stream this yet?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on November 19, 2021, 01:50:30 PM
Keep in mind, though, that as early as 1967, David Anderle accurately assessed Brian as "nonverbal" or a "nonverbal human" who "doesn't talk." That aspect of Brian has always been there, and over time - due significantly to the way the circumstances of his life and the kinds of people who he was surrounded by drove him further and further inward - it has intensified to the point where he is scarcely communicative at all in any kind of public or semi-public situation.  

I haven't seen the film yet, but you're right. The non-communicative Brian has always been there.  Silence and obfuscation clearly have been his defensive weapons of choice for a long, long time.  IIRC, there was a story about Jules Siegel bringing Thomas Pynchon to meet Brian during the Smile era, and neither Brian nor Pynchon said a word to each other.

And yet Brian is an enigma. We can talk about his non-verbalism until we're blue in our faces, and then someone will pull out a radio interview from the '70s where Brian is chatty as hell, a veritable motormouth.  And someone will say, "Well, he's probably coked up." And that's possibly true, but it's more complicated than that.  There's an interview from 2008 with Zooey Deschanel where Brian is more talkative than normal, expanding upon comments more than just his usual minimalism.  Zooey is a very attractive, charming young woman, and it's not unreasonable to infer that Brian is a bit enchanted with her.




Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 19, 2021, 01:50:41 PM
Anyone outside the US actually able to buy or stream this yet?

It looked to me as if you could buy a Vudu gift card and then pay for the film with that. Zip code? Any will do...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Sam_BFC on November 19, 2021, 03:23:36 PM
'If only there were someone who Brian trusted enough to tell him when a line wasn't perfect and when it was, and got him to keep working on it until it was perfect'

Anyone got Steve Levine's phone number?

See also story of Someone To Watch Over me in the I Am Brian Wilson book. Ray L seems to be our guy.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Margarita on November 19, 2021, 03:24:26 PM
Brian doesn't communicate well with words.  He never was much of a lyricist, which is why he relied on Mike, Tony Asher, Gary Usher, Roger Christian, etc.  He communicates through music - listen to the backing tracks and instrumentals, and there is where the story of Brian Wilson lives.  


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on November 19, 2021, 06:10:04 PM
Everyone should watch the darn thing before commenting.

Brian might not _say_ many more words than he has before, but this film studies his face and eyes like no others. It doesn’t cut away. And there are words and thoughts he expresses that really took me aback with their power and clarity.

Worth your time.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Amy B. on November 19, 2021, 06:10:12 PM
I don't come on here much anymore, but I wanted to check out what people are saying about the doc. I agree that Brian doesn't open up much, but there are still moments that for me were quite emotional to see, particularly when Brian hears some terrible news...Well, I don't want to spoil anything. He wasn't a chatterbox, but he put himself in a vulnerable position just sitting in front of the cameras like that. I found it very brave. Those who aren't familiar with his story will come away with empathy for him and (I think) an understanding of why he is the way he is, in addition to having a greater understanding of what makes his music special. Also, the filmmakers highlighted some music that a lot of the general public might not know. Special attention paid to the Holland album, for example. Jason Fine is an empathetic listener and a person who clearly puts Brian at ease (in fact, Brian says that and verbalizes how much he appreciates his friendship).

I wanted to note that I found the movie on Amazon Prime, where if you're in the U.S., you can rent it for $6.99 (or buy it for $14.99).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Margarita on November 19, 2021, 09:14:54 PM
Just watched LPR - absolutely loved it.  I have a question, but will precede it with a POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING

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In the film, there is a shot of the piano in the sandbox.  Does anyone know if that is an actual photo taken in the Laurel Way house, or was that taken on the set of Love & Mercy?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on November 19, 2021, 10:11:56 PM
Just watched LPR - absolutely loved it.  I have a question, but will precede it with a POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING

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In the film, there is a shot of the piano in the sandbox.  Does anyone know if that is an actual photo taken in the Laurel Way house, or was that taken on the set of Love & Mercy?

That's a very good question - I was wondering the same thing myself. I do remember reading either on this message board or perhaps a Facebook page that Marilyn actually has some photos that are unpublished of the real sandbox, so apparently they do exist.

I'm thinking and hoping and wishing and praying that that's actually one of the real photos, seen for the first time... but I would love for the experts to weigh in before making any conclusions...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on November 19, 2021, 10:12:27 PM
Everyone should watch the darn thing before commenting.

Brian might not _say_ many more words than he has before, but this film studies his face and eyes like no others. It doesn’t cut away. And there are words and thoughts he expresses that really took me aback with their power and clarity.

Worth your time.

+1 to the max


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on November 19, 2021, 10:42:31 PM
Looks like you can rent or buy the doco on Amazon now too.

https://www.amazon.com/Brian-Wilson-Long-Promised-Road/dp/B09LSZR6XT/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?camp=1789&creative=9325


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: swinkhouse on November 20, 2021, 04:54:59 AM
Just watched LPR - absolutely loved it.  I have a question, but will precede it with a POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING

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In the film, there is a shot of the piano in the sandbox.  Does anyone know if that is an actual photo taken in the Laurel Way house, or was that taken on the set of Love & Mercy?

That's from Love and Mercy, unfortunately - they used the pic seen here: https://twitter.com/beachboyslegacy/status/726817108592578560/photo/1

Sad we still haven't gotten an actual photo of it!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: mtaber on November 20, 2021, 05:07:23 AM
Amy - nice to hear from you!  Hope you’re doing well…


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: coco1997 on November 20, 2021, 06:37:07 AM
Watched it with my wife last night and loved every minute of it. I have to say, there weren't as many "uncomfortable" moments as the advance reviews made it seem there would be. Certainly, Brian learning of Jack Reilly's death years after the fact was a raw, poignant scene where you really feel for Brian.

Once again, Brian mentions wanting to record an album of rock & roll covers which he's been saying for what, 15 years? But in this film we actually get to see him in the studio working on a cover of "Honeycomb." I wonder how many more (if any) of these covers he's done in recent years that could constitute that long discussed record.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Awesoman on November 20, 2021, 11:00:20 AM
It was pretty solid.  Not reinventing the wheel in terms of Beach Boys/Brian Wilson documentaries but still pretty enjoyable to watch nonetheless.  It was interesting watching his interaction with Jason Fine throughout the film.  Brian seemed mostly at ease with him. 

Also curious as to the music they were recording.  Was it for the allegedly forthcoming soundtrack to this film?  That re-recording of "It's O.K." was flat, "Long Promised Road" wasn't bad and that new song was bizarrely Brian Wilson. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on November 20, 2021, 10:17:54 PM
Vudu'd the film.   A few random thoughts...

The film is beautifully shot and edited, and the sound quality is fantastic.

It's interesting that listening to "It's Ok" is apparently somewhat therapeutic for Brian.  I didn't see that one coming.

I didn't really learn much about BW that I didn't know, except perhaps how personally fond of Jack Rieley BW seems to be.  Others in the BB universe seem to have viewed Jack negatively for various reasons, but it seems pretty obvious that Brian genuinely liked the guy.

I found it heartbreaking that Brian's memory of his early '80s closeness with Dennis with about mainly about drug use.  It's truly sad but frank commentary about where they both were at during that period.  His story of Denny guzzling jugs of fruit juice mixed with vodka is consistent with numerous descriptions by others over the years.

I thought I had read somewhere that Brian's return visit to Hawthorne High was part of this film.  Oh, well, maybe it'll be in the Director's Cut or as a bonus on the Blu Ray.

Kind of surprised by absence of comments by other Wilson family members.  Don Was' IJWMFTT had new non-archival commentary from Audree, Carl, Marilyn, Carnie & Wendy.  The first two obviously aren't available, but the latter three are.  Carnie appears in the studio, but she's never and interviewed and actually her husband Rob probably has more screen time.

I might have liked to have heard something new in the way of comments from Tony Asher and/or Van Dyke Parks.    In general, was pretty much surprised by the absence of commentary from peak-period BW associates such as the Vosse Posse and Wrecking Crew.  Sure, some of them are dead, but a lot of them aren't.  So where are the Danny Huttons and Dean Torrences and Don Randis and Bill Pitmans in all this?

All in all, though, it's a nice film and will likely attract some new blood to the BW/BB universe.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Join The Human Race on November 21, 2021, 06:04:26 AM
I rented the film on Amazon Prime Friday. I had read some reviews beforehand that this wasn't going to shed a ton of new information and for the most part, that's true. I think, though, for a general audience, it did a good job of presenting Brian but also the music of Carl and Dennis. While I would have loved for some Love You tracks to have been played in the drive; I understand the limitations of a documentary. For me, the boring parts were the typical narrative structure that's in any BB/BW documentary. Stardom, creative genius, burn out, redemption.

The highlights for me were the more intimate moments; such as the conversations between Jason and Brian in the deli. Brian's memory of things is interesting; you wonder how much of it is age, substance abuse, Landy abuse, or Brian just being Brian. He knew of River Song and talked about it in 1976 in the Bob Harris interview. I know talking about Carl and Dennis is tough for him, so perhaps that's why he says he never heard POB. Or could it be the other factors listed? Who knows? I liked Brian singing You and I in the car, though; even if he didn't remember the lyrics. He seemed to recall Holland, though. As others posted, the news of Jack's death was a sad on camera moment but an insight into how Brian processes grief n the moment.  It was cool to see him yell out the window of the car to ask the year of the vintage car.

One thing of note was Brian mentioning Sly Stone staying over one night. Brian says that Terry Melcher brought him over and he assumes that Sly was sleeping after doing cocaine. In the Gaines book, there is a particular passage that intrigued me about Brian and California Music.

From the book:

"In order to alleviate Brian's cash flow problems, Terry Melcher and former Beach Boy Bruce Johnston, who now ran an RCA funded production company called Equinox Records, gave Brian a contract to produce 36 sides, with an advance of $23,000. Note: Carl Wilson wrote a letter to Crawdaddy magazine in 1976 in which he said, 'While people were saying they were trying to looking out for Brian and he didn't have any money and he didn't have any control, the fucking truth is that Sly Stone and Terry Melcher and all those people were hitting on him for $1500 a week, so they could score coke, ok? That is the fucking reason why Brian's name was taken off the checks.' Carl later apologized to Sly Stone and Terry Melcher in a follow up letter to Crawdaddy."

So was California Music just a ruse for Brian to get drug money when he was being cutoff by Marilyn? Carl comes off pretty mad in that letter, which was definitely unusual for him. I'm assuming he publicly apologized due to threat of libel/slander. Did Bruce and Terry really think Brian was going to help produce 36 sides at this point in his life, too? California Music just seems so random; it's nothing original, just a bunch of covers that were pretty outdated for the time, and I can't imagine their being a big market for that in 1974-1975. I understand wanting to cash in on the nostalgia wave, but these songs aren't the originals people grew up with.

It's a good film, wish it was more Brian/Jason driving around and listening to music, but I will take what I can get. I think any BB fan would enjoy it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 21, 2021, 08:06:05 AM
Overall this was an incredibly unique, informative yet emotional, very high quality documentary. I don’t really agree that this doc follows the usual structure of other BW documentaries - while it does carry the same themes, I think the structure is something that has never been attempted in a BW doc before. While the film is somewhat chronological to Brian’s life, it also doesn’t really feel that way because the film is cleverly broken up with the car and deli segments (which sometimes those conversations have literally nothing to do with The Beach Boys). I mean, take the Vanna scene from the movie haha, there is nothing like that in any other Beach Boys related documentary. On top of that, they play ‘Long Promised Road’ and ‘It’s Ok’ over many different parts of the movie - pretty much most (if not all, this movie excluded) BW/Beach Boy documentaries only play certain songs when are relevant to the period in which they are talking about.

And I think the usual themes are a necessity of a BW documentary: imagine a film about Brian’s life that didn’t talk about Pet Sounds, or his drug use, or his redemption? It would be an incomplete story. But this film takes those themes and makes such a unique narrative out of them.

What was most unique about this documentary is the amount of time they spent playing/talking about songs that Brian didn’t even write! I mean, that alone shows how this film stands alone from any other Brian Wilson documentary. The name of the movie isn’t a BW song, the movie closes with Brian and his band covered that song. I don’t know why they did that, and it is out of the norm, but it works! And it works really well.

What I LOVED about this film was that it just shows Brian being Brian. He is at times scared, hilarious, tired, energetic. He is also really mentally sharp. This film just shows Brian as he is - not who we think he is, or who we expect him to be. That alone makes this a required viewing for any fan - as there has been so much speculation and bullshit information about the man (especially on these forums) - yet this movie helps break those myths.

My only complaint about the film is the gushing about Pet Sounds material - it almost seemed forced. And this is coming from someone who does think that Pet Sounds is the greatest set of music ever composed. So perhaps it isn’t something I should complain about - I only saw the movie once so perhaps I will have a different opinion on the second viewing.

Clearly the film was more about Brian and his brothers, but Mike’s lack of presence in the film is very obvious. It doesn’t detract from the movie, but it’s just a sad reminder of how fragmented these guys are right now. And given Mike’s petty lawsuits about the dumbest, most illogical sh*t, it was probably a very easy choice by Brent Wilson to leave Mike 1000 miles away from this doc. It was really nice to hear Brian compliment Mike’s singing voice.

Overall this movie is the most intimate look at Brian ever. I mean, where he opens up and admits that he hasn’t had a friend to talk to in 3 years - that was heartbreaking, and yet it’s real and in the movie. So this movie isn’t trying to force a narrative, it’s just showing Brian for who he is these days.

I think someone said it above or elsewhere, but this film is a great component to Love and Mercy. Brent Wilson and Jason Fine really knocked it out of the park with this. The quality is outstanding, and it’s really not your usual BW documentary. It’s very unique, charming - it made me laugh out loud, it also made me tear up at parts…which I’ve never done with any other Brian Wilson/Beach Boys documentary.

10/10


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on November 21, 2021, 11:55:44 AM
Filmwax TV: Brent Wilson & Jason Fine youtube (BRIAN WILSON: LONG PROMISED ROAD)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2T1P34rB5Cg


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on November 21, 2021, 09:38:09 PM
I watched the film on Friday. I have always been curious about who Brian Wilson is as a person. This film does a good job, imo, of humanizing a legendary figure, and it did give me some insights into the guy. The funniest part for me was when he yells at the driver next to them, "hey buddy what year is your car?" or something to that effect. The most moving is his talking (and reacting) about his brothers, especially Carl.

I really appreciated Bruce Springsteen's take on the music being a balancing act between joy and melancholy -- I often feel like the happier side of the music gets set aside in favor of the sadder side. So it's good to hear that considered as elements in balance.

And my most recent moment of sadness in retrospect, seeing Billy playing in some of the Pet Sounds tour footage and then getting the bad news about him the next day. Now "Farewell My Friend" is the song playing most in my head.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Joshilyn Hoisington on November 22, 2021, 07:28:45 AM
The funniest part for me was when he yells at the driver next to them, "hey buddy what year is your car?" or something to that effect.

That is a really fun moment, and it also got me thinking about the vast range of how human psychology works -- here's this guy who struggles a lot with fear and being nervous to do things, who has no trouble loudly and bluntly asking a stranger a question.  That's the kind of thing that absolutely terrifies me, and you can see that Jason is uncomfortable too.  We all have our stuff, and it's just interesting to see that Brian's social anxieties don't extend to initiating random interactions with a stranger.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on November 22, 2021, 09:13:36 AM
The Cadillac moment is fun.

 I also got a kick out of Brian's excitement about seeing Vanna White at the deli.

Speaking of the Beverly Glen deli, it's also a slightly funny moment when Brian tells Jason to park in the handicapped spot and Jason is hesitant but Brian says he parks there all the time.  It kind of comes off as humorous in the sense of "rock star parks wherever the hell he wants."  At the same time, as a gentleman in his late 70s with back and knee issues, Brian would almost certainly be entitled to a CA handicapped placard if he or his people were to obtain a note from his physician.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 22, 2021, 10:13:35 AM
The Cadillac moment is fun.

 I also got a kick out of Brian's excitement about seeing Vanna White at the deli.

Speaking of the Beverly Glen deli, it's also a slightly funny moment when Brian tells Jason to park in the handicapped spot and Jason is hesitant but Brian says he parks there all the time.  It kind of comes off as humorous in the sense of "rock star parks wherever the hell he wants."  At the same time, as a gentleman in his late 70s with back and knee issues, Brian would almost certainly be entitled to a CA handicapped placard if he or his people were to obtain a note from his physician.

:lol I didn't notice that part at all! Must look for that on my second viewing.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 23, 2021, 03:01:58 AM
Finally watched this last night (using a USA VPN and Vudu gift vouchers to purchase)

It was really good, really heartfelt. Brian speaks more than I was fearing and some of the pauses are really poignant.

It's a shame it couldn't be seen in a cinema, but a good watch nonetheless.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on November 23, 2021, 12:22:38 PM
I bought this on Friday and viewed it. Just barfing out some random thoughts:

I think the format is what I expected, given reports and the trailer. Very loose, no attempt to cover the whole story.

It is interesting that the original description of the film back when it was conceived/reported was that it covered Brian's "solo years", and I'd say this film is really more like "I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" in that it goes back through the BB story as well to some degree, and also really doesn't attempt to talk a great deal about Brian's solo career beyond that he launched it and is still going.

I get why they get the talking heads they do for these films. As usual, some interview subjects offer more insight than others. No, Nick Jonas doesn't need to be here. He doesn't say anything disagreeable; I just think it lacks any gravitas. There is a bit of a sense of trying to sell the viewer too hard on Brian's genius though some of these interview clips; a bit like a McCartney doc.

I also still find it fascinating how Al Jardine has been touring full-time with Brian now for almost TEN years, and he's still largely ignored. I'm not saying he should be a main focus, but we get more interview footage with Nick Jonas than Al Jardine in this (who gets one very quick interview clip). I dunno, maybe the point was to *not* interview very close friends and family for this (in which case, why is Al there at all then?). But Al would have some very specific keen insights into Brian's life, having been back in it since 2012 and being able to contrast it to the past.

Yes, Brian seeming to not know things (hearing Dennis's POB, Jack Rieley's death) he clearly knew in the past is weird. I don't know how to really address it. It is what it is. That stuff happens. It is a bit weird to turn two of these slightly awkward instances into two very poignant parts of the documentary. But I guess the thing is that they're still poignant. Whatever is behind Brian's surprise about Rieley's death, it's genuine and it's really sad. We don't often get to see Brian's emotions like this.

I sometimes don't put *too* much stock into Brian's facial expressions. I think sometimes we're seeing a really intimate, personal, emotional moment. But there are some moments where I think we're just seeing Brian's facial tics.

The car ride footage is probably the most interesting. I kind of wished they had just given us like two and a half hours of Fine spitballing stuff at Brian and seeing what happens. Sometimes there's no reaction, or nothing interesting, but clearly sometimes it elicits an interesting response, and some truly funny moments. I mean, Brian asking for "It's OK" multiple times on the car stereo, WTF is that? *Is* it soothing? If so, why? Is there something almost a little subversive about why he uses that song that way? Potentially fascinating.

All in all, I can't find anything objectionable really. It's a couple hours with Brian, with some moments and things we don't often get to see. It's a pretty low-key affair. Despite the generous amount of cheerleading from interview subjects, I don't know how this film would play to non-fans; I don't know if it gets deep enough to really fully *show* his genius and talent.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 23, 2021, 12:55:29 PM
There is a bit of a sense of trying to sell the viewer too hard on Brian's genius though some of these interview clips; a bit like a McCartney doc.

Despite the generous amount of cheerleading from interview subjects, I don't know how this film would play to non-fans; I don't know if it gets deep enough to really fully *show* his genius and talent.

This is my only issue with this documentary. I know this was less of an informative documentary and it was meant to pull on your heartstrings (which I think it did perfectly), but how I wish someone like Philip Lambert had been interviewed even to show up for just 3 minutes on film explaining WHY those chord changes are genius...sprinkle in a little bit of music theory (or whatever you want to call it) just to help back up the claims. It's one thing to keep saying "genius" over again, but it's another to quickly show why Brian has a level of talent that has hardly been topped (if it ever has) by other songwriters. Lambert was great at doing just that in the Songwriter documentary.
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BTW the iTunes Extras are really cool. And by "Extras" it is just one full 15 minute piece that has some extra car, other footage, and some interviews. There is a really beautiful segment that shows a lot of Audree Wilson photos/footage that I have never seen before, and overtop that montage Audree is heard on a very crisp recording singing wonderfully the tune "Is It True What They Say About Dixie" (I'm sure others here know of this recording but I have never heard it before) - really funny dialogue between her and Brian. The 15 minute clips ends rather abruptly.

Highlight of this segment was after spending time at Hawthorne High Brian yells to Jason "I wanna split after this, I've seen enough of this damn place!" :lol


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: thetojo on November 23, 2021, 01:14:38 PM
I also still find it fascinating how Al Jardine has been touring full-time with Brian now for almost TEN years, and he's still largely ignored. I'm not saying he should be a main focus, but we get more interview footage with Nick Jonas than Al Jardine in this (who gets one very quick interview clip). I dunno, maybe the point was to *not* interview very close friends and family for this (in which case, why is Al there at all then?). But Al would have some very specific keen insights into Brian's life, having been back in it since 2012 and being able to contrast it to the past.

Maybe the Jardine bit was just a leftover from the interview for Streetlight Harmonies of a few years back ?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on November 23, 2021, 01:22:59 PM
I think more than anything, this doc’s point and purpose is spelled out by Elton. He says, and I’m paraphrasing, that Brian’s life of the last 30-odd years (post Landy) has been a creative accomplishment in itself. That is, he’s built a life of caring and compassion around him from nothing. Really, that’s what the whole doc is about. He made great music in the past, he can still do it to some extent, but really just getting through every day and communicating with the world is a huge challenge. And Brian is older and less gregarious than he once was, but dammit, he does it. He pushes through.

Like Carl says, it’s about the joy of life in a very simple way. The movie is much less sophisticated than IJWMFTT (which was really about re-creating the whole legend from scratch after the brutal Landy period), but it has a lot of heart and is far more spontaneous.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on November 23, 2021, 05:37:04 PM


No, Nick Jonas doesn't need to be here. He doesn't say anything disagreeable; I just think it lacks any gravitas. There is a bit of a sense of trying to sell the viewer too hard on Brian's genius though some of these interview clips; a bit like a McCartney doc.

I also still find it fascinating how Al Jardine has been touring full-time with Brian now for almost TEN years, and he's still largely ignored. I'm not saying he should be a main focus, but we get more interview footage with Nick Jonas than Al Jardine in this (who gets one very quick interview clip). I dunno, maybe the point was to *not* interview very close friends and family for this (in which case, why is Al there at all then?). But Al would have some very specific keen insights into Brian's life, having been back in it since 2012 and being able to contrast it to the past.
 

Agree completely that Nick Jonas doesn't need to be in the film, and that it would be better to have more Al interview footage.

One thing to consider is that during the Q&A I attended last week, the director Brent Wilson said Nick Jonas was chosen specifically to try to broaden the demographic and pull in more non-BBs hardcore fans to perhaps consider digging deeper into Brian's work.

Apparently, according to the Q&A, the interview subjects were chosen out of an attempt to get a variety of different musicians from different parts of the world (The Boss from USA, Elton from UK, etc) and also music celebs who have a variety of ages and types of music they're best known for. And also it was stated at the Q&A that Nick Jonas was, like Brian, in a boy band, and then tried (and apparently continues trying - I have no idea since I've never listened to a note of his music) to branch out and broaden his musical output beyond the pigeonholed music he initially made with his brothers.

So whether one digs Nick Jonas or not, I can at least appreciate the intention set by Brent Wilson. I suppose if the idea of the film is to get more people on the Brian Wilson train who aren't already huge fans, maybe Al Jardine wasn't considered as vital to that discussion for the filmmaker's intent.

I also have to think that there's 100% an intent for Oscar consideration behind the film's release, so maybe they feel high profile celebs singing the praise of Brian is going to help nudge the factors in the direction to get a proper high profile award for the film. But ultimately, yeah, as a fan absolutely I would love to hear more from Al though, and less from Nick Jonas, no doubt.

I do hope this film gets an Oscar, who knows what will happen. I was certainly disappointed by the lack of awards and noms attained by Love & Mercy compared to what I feel that film deserved (and I tried to think about that film detached from my superfandom, and I still believe it's the best biopic I've ever seen, and at least as good - better in my view - than Walk The Line)... so I think that Melinda and company probably feel this film is another shot at getting Oscar or similar award gold for a Brian Wilson film. And I completely feel it's deserved, again, in the case of this great film.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on November 23, 2021, 05:41:24 PM
I think more than anything, this doc’s point and purpose is spelled out by Elton. He says, and I’m paraphrasing, that Brian’s life of the last 30-odd years (post Landy) has been a creative accomplishment in itself. That is, he’s built a life of caring and compassion around him from nothing. Really, that’s what the whole doc is about. He made great music in the past, he can still do it to some extent, but really just getting through every day and communicating with the world is a huge challenge. And Brian is older and less gregarious than he once was, but dammit, he does it. He pushes through.

Like Carl says, it’s about the joy of life in a very simple way. The movie is much less sophisticated than IJWMFTT (which was really about re-creating the whole legend from scratch after the brutal Landy period), but it has a lot of heart and is far more spontaneous.

So very well put.

That Elton John quote was one of the most poignant lines in the entire film, and Elton's words brought something new to the overall Brian Wilson discussion.

The terms "musical genius" and "survivor" are often used with regards to Brian, and I suppose Elton's view is an extension of the "survivor" ideology, but Elton expanded upon that viewpoint in precisely how he put it... Elton really spoke that sentence in such a great, profound way (can't wait for a Blu-ray release so I can fast forward to get the exact quote); I found it quite moving and spot on. I hope more people begin to see Brian's story that way too.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on November 24, 2021, 06:27:54 AM
Regarding Brian's seemingly weird choice of "It's OK" in the car, multiple times (when he really hasn't touched the thing since the 70s apart from being on stage during C50), I think it's quite possible that, at the time they shot those bits, Brian was preparing to do the studio re-record we see later in the film, and he's just getting some extra acquaintance with the song again. Now, *why* he was re-recording it then, I dunno. Maybe it was the opposite, maybe he kept suggesting the song in the car and then they cut it. Or maybe they cut it first, with a very general idea of the theme of something being "okay" for Brian.

But it is funny, because contextually for fans it almost seems at first like Brian's using a Mike-centric song as some sort of therapeutic white noise or something.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: JakeH on November 24, 2021, 09:24:36 AM
Regarding Brian's seemingly weird choice of "It's OK" in the car, multiple times (when he really hasn't touched the thing since the 70s apart from being on stage during C50), I think it's quite possible that, at the time they shot those bits, Brian was preparing to do the studio re-record we see later in the film, and he's just getting some extra acquaintance with the song again. Now, *why* he was re-recording it then, I dunno. Maybe it was the opposite, maybe he kept suggesting the song in the car and then they cut it. Or maybe they cut it first, with a very general idea of the theme of something being "okay" for Brian.

But it is funny, because contextually for fans it almost seems at first like Brian's using a Mike-centric song as some sort of therapeutic white noise or something.

For a while, I've wondered what exactly is up with the song "It's OK." It never made sense to me as a song. The final version from 15 Big Ones (which, in my opinion, is a shrill, annoying, unlistenable thing) is as we all know a standard back-to-the-beach record, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the song was conceived - by Brian - to be that.  I personally doubt it was, though I don't think there's any factual basis for my saying that. It's just (educated ) speculation. 

My assumption is that Brian came up with the music/musical feel/chords for "It's OK" and also came up with the tag line - "It's OK." My assumption is that the Beach Boys/Mike then take the song and turn Brian's (unfinished?) "It's OK" concept into a (dumb) summer-fun song, and that's what we get on 15 Big Ones.  In the finished version, the Beach Boys are saying, "it's ok that were doing this, that we've resigned ourselves to this thing we're doing, and it's ok for fans to like this kind of music from the Beach Boys."

Is this what Brian was originally thinking, though, by saying "It's Ok?" It might - he might have been thinking, "I've to get back up and write happy summer songs for us, and it's ok if I have to do that." That's possible.  Or, Brian was referring to something else. In Brian's 2016 book (I Am Brian Wilson), he says, with respect to his auditory-verbal hallucinations, "they are frightening... When I’m working on a record in the studio, they’re less likely to be there.  Lots of the music I’ve made has been my way of trying to get rid of those voices.  Other strategies didn’t really work." It's possible that to Brian, coming up with It's OK was his way of telling himself It's OK or it's gonna be ok or something.   Or maybe not. But if so, it would be consistent with the way it is used in this new documentary.  Otherwise, it's indeed hard to imagine Brian wanting to hear a mediocre Beach Boys song that, in it's finished form, represents so much of what went wrong in Brian's life and career.  Although anything's possible with Brian and the Beach Boys.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 24, 2021, 09:30:33 AM
Given the very literal and direct way Brian seems to think about things, I wouldn't be surprised if he listens to a song called "it's OK" when he wants things to 'be OK'.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on November 24, 2021, 01:07:48 PM
The Associated Press reports that BW:LPR has charted at #7 this week in Apple's "Movies US charts – Independent" category.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Mooger Fooger on November 24, 2021, 03:20:25 PM
Has any announcement been made as to when this film might become available in Europe?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: debonbon on November 24, 2021, 04:22:12 PM
Has any announcement been made as to when this film might become available in Europe?

I’ve seen no info about any release outside USA, not even a “stay tuned for info”. Very disappointing.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Mooger Fooger on November 24, 2021, 05:08:45 PM
Thanks for clarifying.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: SMiLE Brian on November 24, 2021, 05:16:02 PM
Great movie!  ;D


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: RiC on November 24, 2021, 10:14:22 PM
Has any announcement been made as to when this film might become available in Europe?

I’ve seen no info about any release outside USA, not even a “stay tuned for info”. Very disappointing.
Which is weird, because last summer they announced that they already have international distribution covered. There's a lot of Brian fans outside of US and it's dissappointing not being able to see it when we are living the time of streaming. I tried a million ways to see it already, but VPNs won't work when all the platforms require a US credit card.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CenturyDeprived on November 25, 2021, 08:56:27 AM
Has any announcement been made as to when this film might become available in Europe?

I’ve seen no info about any release outside USA, not even a “stay tuned for info”. Very disappointing.
Which is weird, because last summer they announced that they already have international distribution covered. There's a lot of Brian fans outside of US and it's dissappointing not being able to see it when we are living the time of streaming. I tried a million ways to see it already, but VPNs won't work when all the platforms require a US credit card.


It's truly remarkable how inept the process is for the powers that be to not allow the film currently in other countries. Especially right when all the promo is happening and people are getting excited about the film.

Literally they are just begging for the movie to be pirated when they behave this way. When people are happily willing to pay for a product that's available in other countries and they make it unavailable, it just doesn't compute to me. International rights needed to have been worked out ahead of time. Whoever is in charge of this really dropped the ball. Oof.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on November 26, 2021, 03:28:53 AM
Has any announcement been made as to when this film might become available in Europe?

If you want to watch it now

1) Get a VPN and set it to USA
2) Go to vudu.com (which will now load with the VPN) and look up the film and its price. When I bought, it was $14.99 for the top quality version.
3) On vudu.com buy a gift card for that amount (or $15.00, or whatever you need to cover the price). Pay with Paypal, use your own details and if it insists on a USA address, make one up. Set the recipient to your own email address.
4) Get the Vudu gift card in your email inbox. Go into your account on Vudu and add the gift balance to your account.
5) Go back to the film and purchase it and it should show your gift balance. Enter whatever details it needs to complete the purchase. Use any zip code you can find online

Worked for me :)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: mtaber on November 28, 2021, 02:44:38 PM
I just watched the documentary and have to say that I am overwhelmed emotionally. I cried at several points. Seeing Brian recording in the studio was a joyous experience for me. And I have to say that I’m kind of ashamed of the occasional criticism of Brian’s vocals, or performance, or songwriting that occur when people review “Brian Wilson”.  He is 79 years old.  He will never again sound like he did when he was 22 or 33 or 60. He has trouble walking around. Brian won’t do another Pet Sounds, I’m fairly sure.  But, my lord, he has given me more joy in my life that any other artist, by far.  To simply see him and hear him, that’s enough for me.  The guy is still LIVING, for goodness sake.  Look at what the man has given all of us, for nearly 60 years!  I truly love this man and thank him for giving me so many happy moments in my life. God bless Brian.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on November 28, 2021, 03:02:02 PM
Has any announcement been made as to when this film might become available in Europe?

I’ve seen no info about any release outside USA, not even a “stay tuned for info”. Very disappointing.
Which is weird, because last summer they announced that they already have international distribution covered. There's a lot of Brian fans outside of US and it's dissappointing not being able to see it when we are living the time of streaming. I tried a million ways to see it already, but VPNs won't work when all the platforms require a US credit card.


It's truly remarkable how inept the process is for the powers that be to not allow the film currently in other countries. Especially right when all the promo is happening and people are getting excited about the film.

Literally they are just begging for the movie to be pirated when they behave this way. When people are happily willing to pay for a product that's available in other countries and they make it unavailable, it just doesn't compute to me. International rights needed to have been worked out ahead of time. Whoever is in charge of this really dropped the ball. Oof.

For anyone involved with the international streaming or distribution of this documentary who might be reading. While Long Promised Road is my viewing preference, I’m watching The Beatles 3 x 2 plus hrs outside of the US with no problem....Just saying. 🤔🤔🤔


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Bob has a Job on November 28, 2021, 06:26:41 PM
And I have to say that I’m kind of ashamed of the occasional criticism of Brian’s vocals, or performance, or songwriting that occur when people review “Brian Wilson”.  He is 79 years old.  He will never again sound like he did when he was 22 or 33 or 60. He has trouble walking around. Brian won’t do another Pet Sounds, I’m fairly sure.  But, my lord, he has given me more joy in my life that any other artist, by far.

I get where you're coming from, for sure I do. And when it's an issue of range or tone I certainly am willing to cut Brian slack. And it goes without saying that the man is a titan, and a fraction of his back catalog would bestow him that status, and has given us so much and certainly owes us nothing. But at the same time, it goes back to "Cuckoo Clock" on Surfin' Safari -- the guy makes strange choices sometimes. Let me be clear though, I'm really just talking about Right Where I Belong, and that opening phrase with the terribly enunciated ending. What makes it so flagrant too is that he sings it relatively clearly ("that's what the music really is") later in the song.

I should add though that I'm in violent agreement with you overall -- it's beautiful to see Brian in his element and calling shots to make excellent music (I love the Honeycomb scene!!)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on November 29, 2021, 04:31:43 AM
Enjoyed it, lot of old ground covered and not keen on some of the talking heads but some really great moments and a nice insight into Brian's life.

Very emotional at times re: his brothers and....Jack Rieley.

Was interesting to see the therapeutic effect a song like "It's OK" has for Brian when he wanted LPR off and it put back on in the car.

Hey!.....and Brian finally listened to POB!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 29, 2021, 07:40:05 AM
I just watched the documentary and have to say that I am overwhelmed emotionally. I cried at several points. Seeing Brian recording in the studio was a joyous experience for me. And I have to say that I’m kind of ashamed of the occasional criticism of Brian’s vocals, or performance, or songwriting that occur when people review “Brian Wilson”.  He is 79 years old.  He will never again sound like he did when he was 22 or 33 or 60. He has trouble walking around. Brian won’t do another Pet Sounds, I’m fairly sure.  But, my lord, he has given me more joy in my life that any other artist, by far.  To simply see him and hear him, that’s enough for me.  The guy is still LIVING, for goodness sake.  Look at what the man has given all of us, for nearly 60 years!  I truly love this man and thank him for giving me so many happy moments in my life. God bless Brian.

It is baffling to me the firepower people into their criticisms of Brian. Also the constant calls for Brian to quit touring or quit making music (moreso the former). If one doesn't like the music, don't buy the product. If one doesn't like his concerts, don't buy the ticket. But yet people outright call for Brian to "hang it up" - how about you just accept that Brian is a human being who wants to give a concert. If it sucks then people will stop buying tickets. But I think most people get a TON of joy out of seeing Brian and his band perform a concert. Hence, the concerts keep taking place.

Casey Hardmeyer from PopMatters did a scathing review of NPP when that was released. He actually joined the forum to defend his review - I don't remember it going too well for him here. But really, when a guy in his mid-70s (who has a slew of mental disorders) records and releases an album, maybe don't spend half your review mocking the guy? I think because Brian gets balled up into the "Managers/Handlers" category that people think it's fair to completely trash an album because "maybe" Brian had very little to do with it. And meanwhile, according to people who are there, unless he's working with Jeff Beck, Brian works his ass off when he makes a record these days.

People complain about the autotune - it's like it's 1966 and someone notices the sped up tape of 'Caroline, No' and they bitch about vocal manipulation...meanwhile, just listen to the song, and it's beautiful even with the manipulation - that's how I feel about Brian's recent career. There may be odd studio quirks here and there, and some of the songs I will possibly skip, but overall there are moments of pure beauty in that music that no other artist has come close to achieving.

And granted, there are some songs that I don't like from Brian's recent catalogue, but I don't think that gives any fan the right to say that the man needs to quit music. Mike Love makes music that I don't listen to, but I'm happy that he seems to like recording music - he is 80 years old and has more than earned the right to record whatever music he wants to. And that's the way it should be for Brian.

I'm just happy that he is doing what he loves at his age - not many people (especially with his history of mental health and chemical dependency issues) get to do such a thing. Brian has been blessed in so many ways - I mean, he could have died decades ago from ODing. But he is instead still around and still making music - so not only is he blessed, but WE are blessed too, and some of us don't even know it or appreciate it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: BJL on November 29, 2021, 08:50:36 AM

It is baffling to me the firepower people into their criticisms of Brian. Also the constant calls for Brian to quit touring or quit making music (moreso the former). If one doesn't like the music, don't buy the product. If one doesn't like his concerts, don't buy the ticket. But yet people outright call for Brian to "hang it up" - how about you just accept that Brian is a human being who wants to give a concert. If it sucks then people will stop buying tickets. But I think most people get a TON of joy out of seeing Brian and his band perform a concert. Hence, the concerts keep taking place.


This whole post is on point. If you can't see by now that touring and recording give Brian's life meaning and that he wants to be doing both, you've got your head way deep in the sandbox under the piano. And how lucky are we that *that*, and not vegging out on the beach, is how Brian wants to spend his retirement! (Not that it's surprising, artists gonna art). I for one love that little wiggle of distortion in the vocal on the intro to his new song. Yea, it's weird, yea, the first time I heard it, I was like "huh? is there something wrong with my internet connection?" But it's a weird funny cool little effect that I'm not sure I've ever quite heard anything like. There's no way anyone but Brian put it there, because hired guns don't do that kind of thing on their own initiative when they're working with legends. Like it or not, it's Brian messing around with new sounds and having a sense of humor in the studio - two things that made major contributions to the music we all love.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: pixletwin on November 29, 2021, 01:42:47 PM
Anyone else want to box Jason Fine's ears when he ambushed Brian with info that Jack Rieley had passed away? Brian looked like he might have liked to.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Needleinthehay on November 29, 2021, 03:41:43 PM
Anyone else want to box Jason Fine's ears when he ambushed Brian with info that Jack Rieley had passed away? Brian looked like he might have liked to.

As someone posted, brian posted on instagram when jack died a small tribute to him, so he mustive known he died, but just forgot....

Also did anyone notice him say hes never heard pacific ocean blue? But ive literally seen video of him singing river song....

Guessing he just has a spotty memory...

Also, LOVED the documentary. My gf who isnt a huge BB freak like everyone on here , she loved it too. Thought it was great. Even told her mom to watch it. haha. Overall, was really impressed with it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Matt H on November 30, 2021, 05:34:27 AM
Anyone else want to box Jason Fine's ears when he ambushed Brian with info that Jack Rieley had passed away? Brian looked like he might have liked to.

In a Q&A about the film, Jason stated that he thought Brian already knew, and if he had known that Brian didn't know, he never would have said anything about it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 30, 2021, 05:55:05 AM
Anyone else want to box Jason Fine's ears when he ambushed Brian with info that Jack Rieley had passed away? Brian looked like he might have liked to.

As someone posted, brian posted on instagram when jack died a small tribute to him, so he mustive known he died, but just forgot....

Yeah, I think Brian just has a rather poor memory when it comes to some things (like Pacific Ocean Blue). Some may speculate that Brian is just pulling someone's leg - but really who benefits from this? Brian looked legit saddened by the news of Reiley passing away. And some may speculate that the Instagram/Twitter statement was written by a handler in Brian's tone. This suggests that either Brian was never told about Reiley's death, or that Brian doesn't have the capacity to write a short statement about the passing of an old friend. I'm sure Brian was told of Reiley's passing and he was probably asked to write a short tribute to the guy. And over the last couple years he had forgotten about Reiley's passing.

I mean, is it that far fetched that a nearly 80 year old man who spent years of his life addicted to cocaine, who then spent a decade+ being pumped full of pharmaceuticals may not have the best memory in the world?

It's sad to me what some people speculate about Brian's life.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on November 30, 2021, 06:21:20 AM
I doubt very much that Brian has anything to do with expression of sympathy social media posts. Why would he?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on November 30, 2021, 06:41:03 AM
I doubt very much that Brian has anything to do with expression of sympathy social media posts. Why would he?

Really? I'd just find it highly disingenuous if they write a post for him and sign his name if he had nothing to do with it. I mean, I highly doubt that Brian logs into Twitter and types these posts out himself, but I also don't think it's outside the realm of possibility that Brian is asked to write something down for his social media team to share on social media.

If someone is writing that stuff for him and signing his name "love and mercy, Brian" I think that's really lousy and disingenuous. (For the Reiley post I don't think he signed it in his name, but the writing implies that he wrote it. And other posts his name is signed).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Wirestone on November 30, 2021, 07:25:18 AM
I don’t know. It just seems to me that old rock stars have better things to do than dictating random social media posts. I mean, we know that Brian has answered folks at times, but it’s usually been a distinct event or one night only kind of thing. In a case like this, I could see somebody writing the message, showing it to BW for sign off, and him nodding while barely paying attention. And I might be wrong!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 01, 2021, 06:22:36 AM
I don’t know. It just seems to me that old rock stars have better things to do than dictating random social media posts. I mean, we know that Brian has answered folks at times, but it’s usually been a distinct event or one night only kind of thing. In a case like this, I could see somebody writing the message, showing it to BW for sign off, and him nodding while barely paying attention. And I might be wrong!

Yeah, I can definitely see them writing some copy for him to sign off on in some cases. But when it comes to the passing of certain people, it would seem really inappropriate for them to write these short statements claiming they are from Brian (when they could just as easy be honest and sign them "from all of us in the Wilson family" or something). Like I say, I can't see Brian initiating the creation of these social media posts, but I can see his wife or someone asking him for a short statement. I don't think he's that busy (or incapable) to do such a thing. But I have no idea what goes on in this guy's life, so you could be very correct.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on December 01, 2021, 09:06:05 AM
It could be that they don't tell him as it's very upsetting. You can see in the doc how he protects himself from emotionally tough situations.

If there is no official condolence from his SM accounts then perhaps it becomes difficult as it's seen as disrespectful or people start speculating about possible reasons.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 01, 2021, 11:43:10 AM
Yeah that could be the case. But I'd also think that since Brian is around a lot of people from time to time (recording studios, backstage at concerts, interviews) that his wife/management would tell him this stuff anyways because eventually he's probably going to hear the news. If he isn't told about emotionally troubling news, then he could potentially be blindsided with that news...if that's what happened with the Reiley information from Jason Fine on camera, that really isn't a great way to handle that type of stuff.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on December 02, 2021, 03:27:03 AM
Yeah that could be the case. But I'd also think that since Brian is around a lot of people from time to time (recording studios, backstage at concerts, interviews) that his wife/management would tell him this stuff anyways because eventually he's probably going to hear the news. If he isn't told about emotionally troubling news, then he could potentially be blindsided with that news...if that's what happened with the Reiley information from Jason Fine on camera, that really isn't a great way to handle that type of stuff.

I'd imagine his band mates and people he works with are well tuned in to what are appropriate conversations to have around him.












Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 02, 2021, 04:33:21 AM
Just my perspective on this, but if the death of old friends is one of the supposed off-limits topics for the band/etc I would think that someone would’ve let Jason Fine know this before getting into a car with Brian for 70 hours. And while the band and other workers may know what subjects are taboo, Brian still does interviews, he sees people at the deli. It’s not like he is completely shut off from the outside world…I mean, I’m sure the guy knows how to use a TV remote and flips through channels, sees the news, etc. As in, it’s impossible to shelter Brian from everything, so why hide things like this from him (when it could possibly be mentally worse for the guy if he is blindsided by bad news).

Death is a part of life, and Brian is no stranger to it. I mean, Nicky Wonder unfortunately passed away and Brian paid homage to him in concert. To me, the simplest explanation is that Brian just forgets things from time to time, and Reiley’s passing is just one of those things.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on December 02, 2021, 05:12:35 AM
Just my perspective on this, but if the death of old friends is one of the supposed off-limits topics for the band/etc I would think that someone would’ve let Jason Fine know this before getting into a car with Brian for 70 hours. And while the band and other workers may know what subjects are taboo, Brian still does interviews, he sees people at the deli. It’s not like he is completely shut off from the outside world…I mean, I’m sure the guy knows how to use a TV remote and flips through channels, sees the news, etc. As in, it’s impossible to shelter Brian from everything, so why hide things like this from him (when it could possibly be mentally worse for the guy if he is blindsided by bad news).

Death is a part of life, and Brian is no stranger to it. I mean, Nicky Wonder unfortunately passed away and Brian paid homage to him in concert. To me, the simplest explanation is that Brian just forgets things from time to time, and Reiley’s passing is just one of those things.

There would no avoiding the sad death of Nicky W but the news of Jack R is different. He wasn't well known outside BB's circles and was there only for a brief fairly uncommercial period during the bands history. He's unlikely to make mainstream news. The chances of someone saying such things at the deli also seems slim IMO.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 02, 2021, 05:32:44 AM
Just my perspective on this, but if the death of old friends is one of the supposed off-limits topics for the band/etc I would think that someone would’ve let Jason Fine know this before getting into a car with Brian for 70 hours. And while the band and other workers may know what subjects are taboo, Brian still does interviews, he sees people at the deli. It’s not like he is completely shut off from the outside world…I mean, I’m sure the guy knows how to use a TV remote and flips through channels, sees the news, etc. As in, it’s impossible to shelter Brian from everything, so why hide things like this from him (when it could possibly be mentally worse for the guy if he is blindsided by bad news).

Death is a part of life, and Brian is no stranger to it. I mean, Nicky Wonder unfortunately passed away and Brian paid homage to him in concert. To me, the simplest explanation is that Brian just forgets things from time to time, and Reiley’s passing is just one of those things.

There would no avoiding the sad death of Nicky W but the news of Jack R is different. He wasn't well known outside BB's circles and was there only for a brief fairly uncommercial period during the bands history. He's unlikely to make mainstream news. The chances of someone saying such things at the deli also seems slim IMO.


1) My point about Nicky Wonder is that Nicky was someone who Brian spent a lot of time with on a very long term basis and Brian didn't mentally break down because of the news - he was able to carry on with life in a normal fashion to the point of being able to pay homage to him in a concert following his death. Thus I doubt that his wife/doctors keep sad news from him because he can obviously handle it...even the news of Reiley...if Fine bringing it up was the first time Brian heard the news, you can see that Brian didn't go into a panic attack, he just seemed saddened by the news like any normal person would be if an old friend died.
2) My point about Brian watching the news wasn't tied in with Reiley but other people who Brian is/was close to who have already or will eventually die (who are more newsworthy - say, if McCartney passed away (yes I know he wasn't close to McCartney, but it would still be sad for Brian to hear, etc). My point is that it is impossible to shelter Brian from sad news 100% of the time.
3) My point about the deli is that Brian goes places, sees people in uncontrollable environments and thus it is possible for him to be blindsided by sad/bad news. Thus I doubt they keep sad news from Brian because there are chances that he will find out about it anyways.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on December 02, 2021, 05:41:03 AM
Just my perspective on this, but if the death of old friends is one of the supposed off-limits topics for the band/etc I would think that someone would’ve let Jason Fine know this before getting into a car with Brian for 70 hours. And while the band and other workers may know what subjects are taboo, Brian still does interviews, he sees people at the deli. It’s not like he is completely shut off from the outside world…I mean, I’m sure the guy knows how to use a TV remote and flips through channels, sees the news, etc. As in, it’s impossible to shelter Brian from everything, so why hide things like this from him (when it could possibly be mentally worse for the guy if he is blindsided by bad news).

Death is a part of life, and Brian is no stranger to it. I mean, Nicky Wonder unfortunately passed away and Brian paid homage to him in concert. To me, the simplest explanation is that Brian just forgets things from time to time, and Reiley’s passing is just one of those things.

There would no avoiding the sad death of Nicky W but the news of Jack R is different. He wasn't well known outside BB's circles and was there only for a brief fairly uncommercial period during the bands history. He's unlikely to make mainstream news. The chances of someone saying such things at the deli also seems slim IMO.


1) My point about Nicky Wonder is that Nicky was someone who Brian spent a lot of time with on a very long term basis and Brian didn't mentally break down because of the news - he was able to carry on with life in a normal fashion to the point of being able to pay homage to him in a concert following his death. Thus I doubt that his wife/doctors keep sad news from him because he can obviously handle it...even the news of Reiley...if Fine bringing it up was the first time Brian heard the news, you can see that Brian didn't go into a panic attack, he just seemed saddened by the news like any normal person would be if an old friend died.
2) My point about Brian watching the news wasn't tied in with Reiley but other people who Brian is/was close to who have already or will eventually die (who are more newsworthy - say, if McCartney passed away (yes I know he wasn't close to McCartney, but it would still be sad for Brian to hear, etc). My point is that it is impossible to shelter Brian from sad news 100% of the time.
3) My point about the deli is that Brian goes places, sees people in uncontrollable environments and thus it is possible for him to be blindsided by sad/bad news. Thus I doubt they keep sad news from Brian because there are chances that he will find out about it anyways.

It's very easy break down all that to make my point but we are not gonna agree so I'll leave it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 02, 2021, 05:54:12 AM
Just my perspective on this, but if the death of old friends is one of the supposed off-limits topics for the band/etc I would think that someone would’ve let Jason Fine know this before getting into a car with Brian for 70 hours. And while the band and other workers may know what subjects are taboo, Brian still does interviews, he sees people at the deli. It’s not like he is completely shut off from the outside world…I mean, I’m sure the guy knows how to use a TV remote and flips through channels, sees the news, etc. As in, it’s impossible to shelter Brian from everything, so why hide things like this from him (when it could possibly be mentally worse for the guy if he is blindsided by bad news).

Death is a part of life, and Brian is no stranger to it. I mean, Nicky Wonder unfortunately passed away and Brian paid homage to him in concert. To me, the simplest explanation is that Brian just forgets things from time to time, and Reiley’s passing is just one of those things.

There would no avoiding the sad death of Nicky W but the news of Jack R is different. He wasn't well known outside BB's circles and was there only for a brief fairly uncommercial period during the bands history. He's unlikely to make mainstream news. The chances of someone saying such things at the deli also seems slim IMO.


1) My point about Nicky Wonder is that Nicky was someone who Brian spent a lot of time with on a very long term basis and Brian didn't mentally break down because of the news - he was able to carry on with life in a normal fashion to the point of being able to pay homage to him in a concert following his death. Thus I doubt that his wife/doctors keep sad news from him because he can obviously handle it...even the news of Reiley...if Fine bringing it up was the first time Brian heard the news, you can see that Brian didn't go into a panic attack, he just seemed saddened by the news like any normal person would be if an old friend died.
2) My point about Brian watching the news wasn't tied in with Reiley but other people who Brian is/was close to who have already or will eventually die (who are more newsworthy - say, if McCartney passed away (yes I know he wasn't close to McCartney, but it would still be sad for Brian to hear, etc). My point is that it is impossible to shelter Brian from sad news 100% of the time.
3) My point about the deli is that Brian goes places, sees people in uncontrollable environments and thus it is possible for him to be blindsided by sad/bad news. Thus I doubt they keep sad news from Brian because there are chances that he will find out about it anyways.

It's very easy break down all that to make my point but we are not gonna agree so I'll leave it.

I mean, I don't mind having a discussion. And I'm not saying I'm right. I'm just saying what seems the most logical to me.

I do understand your point of view and it is very well possible that they shelter Brian from bad news. I guess what I'm saying is that it would be kinda irrational (on their part) if that is the case considering what happened with Jason Fine and Brian in the car...if they do shelter him I think that is worse than just telling him bad news in a controlled environment (than Brian being blindsided by it in an uncontrolled environment). That's all.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Zander on December 02, 2021, 10:50:14 PM
I'm gonna say it, I wasn't blown away by this film. It was nice to see some "new" Brian today footage but aside from that it was pretty much a rehash of every other documentary out there. I'd really looked forward to this and was underwhelmed to say the least.

I know, I know - there's only so many ways you can regurgitate the same history but I thought this documentary was gonna be something different, new and up to date. More irrelevant  "talking heads" than there is Brian interaction (Nick Jonas? Come on, really?). I enjoyed watching Brian talk about Dennis and listening to POB for the "first" time, recording the new tune in the studio and I was really moved on Brian discovering that Jack Rieley had passed away some years ago, but that was it really.

Maybe the extras which I haven't seen yet will add some extra flavour but I really don't think hardcore fans are missing anything by not seeing it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 03, 2021, 04:18:10 AM
I think the one thing this documentary did that was unlike any other BW doc, is that it gave us a much closer/longer glimpse of modern day Brian than we’ve ever seen before. The TLOS and BWPS documentaries show Brian in the studio, but they don’t really show him as a person just traversing his world. This is the only documentary I’ve seen that does that.

So yeah, we get the same redemption story. But this film is unique in that half of it focuses solely on Brian himself…not just studio Brian, but also deli Brian, traffic Brian, etc.. And upon typing that I realize how boring that sounds haha, but it’s just cool to see Brian being a regular person and not just a tragical/mythical figure.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on December 03, 2021, 09:54:35 AM
... it’s just cool to see Brian being a regular person and not just a tragical/mythical figure.

This is the best aspect about the film for me.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: joe_blow on December 06, 2021, 06:31:25 PM
Enjoyed it, lot of old ground covered and not keen on some of the talking heads but some really great moments and a nice insight into Brian's life.

Very emotional at times re: his brothers and....Jack Rieley.

Was interesting to see the therapeutic effect a song like "It's OK" has for Brian when he wanted LPR off and it put back on in the car.

Hey!.....and Brian finally listened to POB!
I am sure Brian has been asked about POB before...even in this interview he quotes a few words from River Song:https://youtu.be/Tn9nLxUAAmI?t=397


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pablo. on December 07, 2021, 05:56:22 AM
At the doc, I was kinda expecting Brian come on with "Hey! That's Carl on backgrounds!"...


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: SanAntone on December 09, 2021, 06:22:41 PM
I watched Long Promised Road and then re-watched I Just Wasn't Made for These Times - what a trip.  LPR was a little depressing whereas IJWMFTT is uplifting with phenomenal performances.  Who's the Black backup singers?  Don Was did a great job. 

The Brian Wilson story is such a tragedy.  What I get out of all of this is that he was beaten down after Pet Sounds and SMiLE - the rejection from the band and the record label to the music he had written and recorded must have been devastating.  I'm grateful for the 2004 SMiLE (I already had the Purple Chick and Vigotone boots) but after listening to the Smile Sessions it was a major missed opportunity in 1967 to shelve these songs.



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: juggler on December 09, 2021, 09:43:10 PM
  Who's the Black backup singers? 

Sweetpea Atkinson, Sir Harry Bowens, Donald Ray Mitchell.

These guys were Don Was "regulars," appearing  on his own Was (Not Was) albums and the "Under the Red Sky" album he produced for Dylan.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Ptolemaios on December 12, 2021, 12:33:08 AM
This was one of the better documentaries about Brian and the band and a very good idea to show Brian in a intimate setting driving around in a car with his friend. Much better to watch that than some formal interview where Brian just repeats the same short answers he’s given to questions in the past few decades. I hope we will see a director’s cut on dvd with much more footage.

However, besides the setting there was not really anything new. On a more general level one thing I dislike about docus of Brian and the band is how they always bring up celebrities to give those tired one liners “Brian is a genius”, “don’t know how he does it!”, “the first time I heard that I was blown away!” etc. I find it somehow infantile and embarrassing as if the makers of the docus are insecurely trying to convince the audience of something: “Look! Even Bruce S. things he’s a genius!” As if Brian’s life, career and music don’t stand on their own. To illustrate my point: When compared to a A-class production like the Beatles Anthology I think it would have been very childish if there had been celebrity clips (Elton John's head popping up every once in a while) in those episodes telling the viewer “These guys were great and Paul & John really were geniuses!”, “I was blown away when I heard sgt. Pepper” etc. It would have been embarrassing. The story of the band and the quality of the music stand on their own and most importantly independently thinking adults don’t need to watch and hear such trivialities.

I wish we would one day see a serious biographical, musical and cultural documentary about the band written for adult audiences and the serious music fan and not for the average joe who maybe knows a song or few from the band but that is the level of interest he/she has. With all the quality of the music, the light and the darkness of the story and the influence the band has had there is easily enough story material and credibility for such a thing: a documentary written for independently thinking adults and givin’ everyone in the band a serious and detailed voice to tell their side of things. I don’t care how many episodes it would take – in today’s internet release world and with the bands financial resources make ten episodes if need be but just tell the story in a serious and adult manner. I don’t think I’m the only long time fan of the band who would like to hear for example Mike telling seriously and in detail in an informal setting (drive him around in a car and just talk maybe?) his point of view about what he feels really happened with Smile. (He's autobiography was just the same old typical public relations story telling and as such uninformative.) Do the same with Al, Bruce and Van. I don’t think we need more documentaries where they have the band members sit in formal interviews just going over the same old tired and token answers to superficial questions that we have seen over and over again for the past decades. In this sense this new docu was a step in the right direction.

I have a suggestion for the most knowledgeable people here: Since there is so much knowledge here on this board about the band and I imagine many people with different skill sets (writers, video editors, archive researchers and so on) we should collectively create a fan created anthology style documentary series using publicly available materials. Of course we would not be able to interview the band members. However there is so much video and audio materials plus books for sources available from different decades of the past there would easily be enough materials, even rare clips and other stuff for serious fans to be used for the film to create a documentary of serious proportions. The first part of this project would be to collectively write a preliminary script (of course native speakers have to acutally do the writing). This could be done here as a group effort. Then when the script is done to the satisfaction of most if not all here there would be research and gathering of audio and video materials. After this is done the video editors would take over. And all the while this is going on clips of the work in progress would be released here for everyone to comment and give their feedback.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: MyDrKnowsItKeepsMeCalm on December 13, 2021, 07:29:50 PM
3-minute clip of Brian arranging Honeycomb. Love it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izeC9suU0cU&t=8s



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: mtaber on December 13, 2021, 08:23:29 PM
That’s incredibly cool, thank you for sharing the link!


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: MyDrKnowsItKeepsMeCalm on December 14, 2021, 01:41:48 PM
That’s incredibly cool, thank you for sharing the link!

My pleasure! And couldn't agree more... I've watched it 5 or 6 times already. Keep noticing fascinating little bits in it.



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Zenobi on December 14, 2021, 03:46:48 PM
That clip with Brian arranging Honeycomb is insanely cool. If only they could spend some weeks in the studio with NO EXTERNAL INFLUENCE. No wives, no children, no dogs, no Joe Thomases, no Mike Loves (nor traces of them), no companies, no touring, no documentaries, no interviews, no fans, no nothing. Just Brian, Darian, the rest of his fantastic band, if possible Al and Blondie, and the music. Only contact with the external world, his beloved deli. In that clip, Brian literally broadcasts need of making music.
At the best we could have something like Smile 2 (ok I am exaggerating, bear with me), at worst something like the Wilson/Paley sessions. Will never happen, of course. Pity, REALLY pity.

The number of people who have limited and at times totally obliterated Brian's creative potential is mind boggling. Just listen at his "demoes". They are consistently better, often much better, than the released versions. Even TLOS.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 15, 2021, 02:55:04 AM
Just throwing this out there, but I don’t think we’ve really ever heard Brian with no external influence* (edit: I want to clarify that of course we have heard completely solo BW at times, but it’s rare, not the most commercial music). The reason he ever skyrocketed up the charts in the first place was because of Dennis’ suggestion of surfing. Brian’s magnum opus was written and recorded with collaborators. Smile was greatly influenced by VDP’s ideas of Americana. I know very little about the creative process that Brian went through with Love You, but I wonder how much he was influenced by any therapy that Landy was performing on Brian at the time…not to mention that the album wouldn’t have been completed without his brother stepping in to finish the job.

Brian’s most successful work has always been done either in tandem with another creative or has been influenced by the ideas of another person. I agree that some of those collaborations have resulted in less than stellar work, but when the bulk of his work (including his most successful work) from 1960-onward has been done with collaborators you see an obvious trend that Brian needs/wants people to work with to share the creative/production process with.

So this idea that if Brian left alone in a vacuum with no wife, no friends, no co-producers, no creatives would equate to Brian reaching his full creative potential is just so odd to me. Mostly because I don’t think that Brian has ever really done this successfully - and I think Brian knows this which is why he has most always opted to work with others when creating music.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Zenobi on December 15, 2021, 06:16:11 AM
Ok, I was being a bit optimistic, I know. However, I specified no EXTERNAL influences. By "external" I mean those who are usually at odds with Brian's creativity, and I made a rather extensive list of them. But specifically included, as "internal", Darian, the rest of Brian's band, Al and Blondie. People who have repeatedly proved that they are NOT at odd with Brian's creativity. So no vacuum.

I don't think that Darian, the band, Al (at least now) and Blondie would dream of ever pestering Brian to be "commercial". I wish I could say the same of wives, producers, a couple ex-bandmates, and most fans. We owe that "At My Piano" gem to the unexpected intervention of an entity where somebody actually has some grasp of music (Decca).

I was, voluntarily, optimistic. But in any case I'll have always that doubt... what if? You mentioned Love You. I waited for something like that for more than 40 years. And I know Brian would never have completed Love You without Carl. But for that, there would be Darian. "At My Piano" would never have been completed, either, without him. Nor SMiLE.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: kindofgreen on December 15, 2021, 08:54:31 AM
Yo all I've a new podcast out with director of the film Brent Wilson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8THTyZnYwk8


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 15, 2021, 11:19:57 AM
Ok, I was being a bit optimistic, I know. However, I specified no EXTERNAL influences. By "external" I mean those who are usually at odds with Brian's creativity, and I made a rather extensive list of them. But specifically included, as "internal", Darian, the rest of Brian's band, Al and Blondie. People who have repeatedly proved that they are NOT at odd with Brian's creativity. So no vacuum.

I don't think that Darian, the band, Al (at least now) and Blondie would dream of ever pestering Brian to be "commercial". I wish I could say the same of wives, producers, a couple ex-bandmates, and most fans. We owe that "At My Piano" gem to the unexpected intervention of an entity where somebody actually has some grasp of music (Decca).

I was, voluntarily, optimistic. But in any case I'll have always that doubt... what if? You mentioned Love You. I waited for something like that for more than 40 years. And I know Brian would never have completed Love You without Carl. But for that, there would be Darian. "At My Piano" would never have been completed, either, without him. Nor SMiLE.

I don't think for a second that Melinda or Joe Thomas are at odds with Brian's creativity. Melinda has been nothing but supportive of Brian's creativity (and simultaneously also supportive of Brian's drive for success). Joe Thomas, while I don't appreciate his production techniques, has been the only other collaborator, besides Paley, who has gotten Brian to write original material consistently in the last few decades. And while I completely understand any negativity regarding the production on Imagination, it has been stated numerous times by a person who actually knows, that NPP was mostly a Brian Wilson production. So while JT had his wrestler hands on the project, Brian was the main guy in the studio calling the shots. Brian was creatively fueled like a Saturn-V before liftoff for NPP. He was on the phone with Kacey Musgraves talking about lyrics, he was coming up with different ideas, leading the band, coming up with harmonies. Guitarfool has done some great breakdowns of some of the songs on NPP - it is clearly Brian going all-out.

As for the "externals" pestering Brian to "go commercial" - Brian has flat-out stated numerous times in recent years that he wants a #1 hit. So Brian himself knows the importance of going commercial. He's not going to get a #1 if all he does is channel his inner Love You, playing on some fart-synths singing about a Lay-Z-Boy recliner chair. He knows this, which is why he worked with young talent on NPP. If Brian didn't want to do these things he would just refuse to show up. He wouldn't be on the phone with a country artist conversing about lyrics. If Brian didn't want to go commercial he wouldn't have spent hours in a recording studio with Nate Ruess trying to get Nate's lead perfect. And after all of Brian's hard work and time in the studio, what happened? His fans sh*t all over the record. Hell, they lambasted the thing when just 15 seconds of it had been released on Facebook.

I think at some point, after Brian leaves this world for the next, a lot of fans are going to regret spending so much time wishing Brian was someone else (and wishing Brian was recording something else), when they could've just appreciated the gifts he was giving them while he was here. I've said it numerous times before, I don't care if people don't like everything the man does, heck I don't like everything the man has done. But I think fans could give Brian a lot more credit for what he actually does in the studio. And honestly, I think Brian has the best support around him that he could have right now. He's got a loving family, a loving band. I just wish Brian's fanbase were as kind to him as he is to them.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: MyDrKnowsItKeepsMeCalm on December 15, 2021, 12:26:38 PM
...it has been stated numerous times by a person who actually knows, that NPP was mostly a Brian Wilson production. So while JT had his wrestler hands on the project, Brian was the main guy in the studio calling the shots. Brian was creatively fueled like a Saturn-V before liftoff for NPP. He was on the phone with Kacey Musgraves talking about lyrics, he was coming up with different ideas, leading the band, coming up with harmonies. Guitarfool has done some great breakdowns of some of the songs on NPP - it is clearly Brian going all-out.

As for the "externals" pestering Brian to "go commercial" - Brian has flat-out stated numerous times in recent years that he wants a #1 hit. So Brian himself knows the importance of going commercial. He's not going to get a #1 if all he does is channel his inner Love You, playing on some fart-synths singing about a Lay-Z-Boy recliner chair. He knows this, which is why he worked with young talent on NPP. If Brian didn't want to do these things he would just refuse to show up. He wouldn't be on the phone with a country artist conversing about lyrics. If Brian didn't want to go commercial he wouldn't have spent hours in a recording studio with Nate Ruess trying to get Nate's lead perfect. And after all of Brian's hard work and time in the studio, what happened? His fans sh*t all over the record. Hell, they lambasted the thing when just 15 seconds of it had been released on Facebook.

I was just thinking of No Pier Pressure and Nate Ruess's interviews re working with Brian, so it's perfect that you brought that in here. I understand why NPP isn't everyone's cup of tea, but 1) I love it and think it has stood the test of time, and 2) it is 100% born of the described ideal Brian process (or as close to that as he's ever realistically going to get).

The Nate Ruess descriptions of Brian finetuning his NPP vocal parts on the fly track nicely with the way Brian is (literally) calling the shots re arrangements in this Honeycomb clip.



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Zenobi on December 15, 2021, 04:41:39 PM
Ok, I have really nothing to add and maybe I already said too much. Rereading my posts, I realise I was sounding like someone from "that other forum". I'll be content with aknowledging that we (partly) disagree, and I hope no hard feelings. Sure not from me! :)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: sloopjohnb72 on December 15, 2021, 05:23:38 PM
not to mention that the album wouldn’t have been completed without his brother stepping in to finish the job.

This is a huge myth that I'd like to see phased out eventually. Carl didn't step in to finish the job - he helped mix the record. What he was given to mix was a completed album, on 24 tracks instead of 2. All the compositions, lyrics, track arrangements, vocal arrangements, performances, etc. were produced by Brian. That's 99% or the work. Carl was in charge of whether that piano goes in the left or the right ear, or whether the backing vocals should be louder than the saxes in this section, etc.

In terms of Landy's influence... yes, Landy pushed Brian to write the songs, and a good half of the album may not have been written if Brian wasn't pushed. But the music still all came from Brian completely.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on December 15, 2021, 05:42:56 PM
Thanks, Sloop! Yeah I think that’s something that I’ve heard so many times that I’m just used to thinking it. But yeah, I totally get that all the songs were completed (also agree that the music was all Brian’s).

And Starry, no hard feelings from me either. I think I have a knee-jerk reaction to criticism because I’ve heard so much of it through the years. I respect your opinion, and I’m just glad that there are others who share a love for this band and for Brian’s work.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Don Malcolm on January 14, 2022, 07:29:15 PM
My hope is that when LONG PROMISED ROAD goes to DVD/blu-ray, we'll see some other (judiciously edited) snippets that didn't make the final version. Brent Wilson alluded to a lot of material that was cut to get the film down to a manageable length; he didn't suggest that there was material that got dropped because it was either lurid or incendiary (I doubt Jason Fine would ever ask Brian on-camera about what he remembers about Charles Manson, for example--and we aren't looking for material with actual or implied pushback on Mike, since we want to think that there might somehow be one more Beach Boys project that involved everyone).

I think Brent created a tone that ultimately fell into a register that had to be low-key, that wound up emphasizing Brian's melancholy--and while that's certainly valid up to a point, I've got to think that there are some livelier moments that were cut because they were simply too hard to fit into the overall flow...they may have stood out too much in the prevailing context of the film. A few more snippets that cover a wider emotional range would be welcome--and possibly some footage of Brian working on the piano album (which I assume exists in some form or another).


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: CAFeelin89 on January 16, 2022, 09:19:41 PM
I have the blu-ray preordered from Walmart, which is apparently coming out on Tuesday. I haven't seen any official press release for it yet, though.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on January 16, 2022, 09:40:09 PM
Couple more clips from the doc.

The writing process
https://youtu.be/Lv1p5qymJ3U

Meeting Elton John (and others)
https://youtu.be/LYJYNw24iPI


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pablo. on January 19, 2022, 02:06:19 PM
(ups, sorry, posted on wrong thread)


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on January 21, 2022, 10:09:30 AM
Watch two new clips from Brian Wilson documentary ‘Long Promised Road’


https://www.rollingstone.co.uk/music/news/watch-two-new-clips-from-brian-wilson-documentary-long-promised-road-9919/?fbclid=IwAR0EXIujNzmy-ZTMJ0J0m-g0t6HutxzYV-NIOyfYdGHCLmBZUoSTQ3xKL_U


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on January 24, 2022, 07:32:26 AM
How Brian deals with his mental health
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQH3xGOBT6M


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on January 24, 2022, 08:33:51 AM
BBC interview with Brian https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/entertainment-arts-60092069


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: leoleoleoleo on January 27, 2022, 07:55:37 AM
I saw this at the cinema (UK) last night with my fiance. I wasn't expecting much. From the trailer I knew there would be plenty of whats-his-face from Foo Fighters saying "Brian Wilson threw out the rulebook" and Elton John talking about putting the fifth in the bass for the millionth time. And indeed the talking head segments were the least interesting part of the film (does anyone else worry that the more we keep saying how important Brian is in the pantheon of American 20th century composers, the more it sounds like we're defending a controversial statement? Why state the obvious over and over again?)

However, overall I really enjoyed this film. I like how they didn't dwell too long on the Surfin' Years, or really provide a coherent chronology of Brian's career - look to every other Beach Boys documentary if that's what you're interested in. Brent Wilson and Jason Fine clearly understood that this is a film for hardcore fans who are looking for something they rarely if ever get to see, and that's an unguarded Brian Wilson. As my fiance said afterwards, he just seems to be a 100% pure, egoless human being who still doesn't understand the impact he's had on so many people and is still finding life difficult to navigate. When he's feeling scared, which is often during the doc, his answers to questions are still often one word, but the camera lingers on his face which says more than words ever could about how he's feeling in that moment. It's so rare to see someone, especially a celebrity, who has zero pretence about them. I've always been drawn to Brian because of that, and this film just made me feel that even stronger. As fans we've heard hundreds of funny/poignant Brian Wilson stories, some of which have become legendary - in this film you actually get to see a few happen in real time.

Highlights for me (SPOILERS):

Brian yelling at the guy in the Cadillac to find out what year his car is.

Brian explaining to Jason in a very Brian way why he likes his company "the way you talk is very consistent... when I feel nervous I listen to you talk" (Paraphrasing)

Brian getting stuck into a frozen yoghurt at the Deli the millisecond it's put in front of him and proceeding to energetically sing the praises of Carl's production on Holland.

Footage of Brian and Melinda's wedding with Mike and Carl in attendance.

"Can I get a click?" "Here it comes" "Here comes what?" "The CLICK!!"

Brian reminiscing about various visitors to his house in the 70s.

Obviously a very sad moment, but when Brian learns about Jack Rieley's death is a very emotional moment.

Brian listening to Pacific Ocean Blue and clearly loving it (up until "Farewell My Friend"...). One thing I noticed was how Brian finds it very hard hearing his brothers sing anything to do with saying goodbye.

The performance of Caroline No at the Hollywood bowl.

Brian reminiscing about the the tent and the sandbox at the Laurel Way House. "Young and Rich".




 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Ptolemaios on January 27, 2022, 08:03:32 PM
I saw this at the cinema (UK) last night with my fiance. I wasn't expecting much. From the trailer I knew there would be plenty of whats-his-face from Foo Fighters saying "Brian Wilson threw out the rulebook" and Elton John talking about putting the fifth in the bass for the millionth time. And indeed the talking head segments were the least interesting part of the film (does anyone else worry that the more we keep saying how important Brian is in the pantheon of American 20th century composers, the more it sounds like we're defending a controversial statement? Why state the obvious over and over again?)
 

As I wrote on this topic earlier, I agree about the talking heads. I wish Brian’s team would put a stop to this and advice the producers of any possible future documentary that there is to be no talking celebrity heads. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Shane on January 27, 2022, 11:52:45 PM
Just saw the documentary.  This is definitely not a film for pedestrian fans.  This is much more aimed at a fantasy of uber-fans such as the people on this board.  That fantasy would be... what would it be like to climb into the car with Brian Wilson and drive to all the places a Beach Boys fan should visit?  The film answers this question, and perhaps in the process gives a dose of realism to the fantasy.  Hey Brian, look, it's the house you used to live in and you haven't been there since 1967, what do you think?  "Oh, I wrote Pet Sounds there.  It had a really nice view of downtown Los Angeles."  *silence*

Part of me wonders what it would have been like if the documentary makers had been able to gain permission to enter these homes, or at least the yards.  I wonder if they tried?  Maybe they might have been able to get Brian to say more.

With that said, this uber-fan did enjoy every minute of it.  Brian is a beautiful soul. 

I am left wondering about one other thing.  Brian seems to have an off-and-on switch.  He sits there staring off into space... then when something occurs to him, he lights up, says what's on his mind, seems normal for a few seconds, then goes right back to staring off into space.  It makes me wonder if this is part of his illness or a side-effect of his medication?  I'm being totally serious when I say I have a cat that's the exact same way. 



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on January 28, 2022, 12:12:16 AM
I get the impression that Brian talks (and is 'in the room' as his attention span goes) when the subject matter is interesting to him, and that talking about broadly the same topics he has for 50 years isn't interesting to him. Brian is a rich man, and unlike most of us, doesn't have to pretend to be interested in things he isn't for money.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Joshilyn Hoisington on January 28, 2022, 07:12:38 AM
I saw this at the cinema (UK) last night with my fiance. I wasn't expecting much. From the trailer I knew there would be plenty of whats-his-face from Foo Fighters saying "Brian Wilson threw out the rulebook" and Elton John talking about putting the fifth in the bass for the millionth time. And indeed the talking head segments were the least interesting part of the film (does anyone else worry that the more we keep saying how important Brian is in the pantheon of American 20th century composers, the more it sounds like we're defending a controversial statement? Why state the obvious over and over again?)
 

As I wrote on this topic earlier, I agree about the talking heads. I wish Brian’s team would put a stop to this and advice the producers of any possible future documentary that there is to be no talking celebrity heads. 


I think maybe the makers of these films DO think that they have to go in hard on the celebs to defend their thesis.  The problem is they need to SHOW that Brian is important, not TELL.  Which, of course, most people lack the vocabulary to do -- even the record producer Don Was, when given the chance to show the viewers what makes Brian's music special, with the sessions up on a console right in front of him, is like "Welp, I dunno, man!'

Find smarter people and show us that the Beach Boys music is great.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on January 28, 2022, 08:50:08 AM
I'd point out again that some of these issues were addressed by the film's creators in the "Pray For Surf" podcast back in November, and here's the thread to find it and comment:

http://smileysmile.net/board/index.php/topic,27981.0.html (http://smileysmile.net/board/index.php/topic,27981.0.html)

I think one point to consider is that ultimately this is a commercial film release that needs backers, distributors, and ultimately, an audience who will pay to see it or own it, and make the money back for the financiers. And the filmmakers want a wide audience of music fans outside the Beach Boys fan bubble to see it and ultimately explore more of the music after seeing the film. If they can bring in big names from multiple generations, like Elton John for one prime example, who also happens to be a massive fan and supporter of Brian's music, it's a winning hand to play. Likewise if you feature one of the Jonas Brothers, you'll immediately get potentially millions of fans who would never check out a Beach Boys related film wanting to see what Jonas is doing in the film...and they may like what they hear and the guy who is the feature of the film itself.

I admit, the inclusion of Jonas baffled me at first...until I heard the producers explain it in the Pray For Surf podcast (again, linked above, check it out). How many successful bands of the past 15 years or so have featured a similar lineup as the Beach Boys, where you have three brothers as the core of the group? I'd say the Jonas Brothers might be the most successful example, with Hanson coming in second. Not many bands have had the family and sibling dynamic that was the keystone of the Beach Boys, and having one of those brothers who can relate to that unique dynamic makes it a pretty logical choice as well as something I would want to hear expanded on. How is it to be a massive success and be in that celebrity bubble with your two brothers? Pretty interesting concept, and something I didn't consider as a reason until I heard them explain it on Pray For Surf.

As far as explaining why Brian's music is what it is, again I feel there is a balance between having the appeal to a wide general audience versus doing a deep dive into the theory and analysis in a general release documentary. Let's say they get a musicologist talking about how Brian went from a C sharp half-diminished seventh chord into an E major 6/9 as a deceptive resolution but then borrowed an F#7 flat 9 chord to resolve back to B minor as an example of "key of the moment" analysis...none of that is from Brian's music but it's just an example of how making it too academic would lose most of the audience. It would be like doing a documentary about Apollo 11 and going heavy on content featuring various astrophysicists and literal rocket scientists whiteboarding various formulae and equations to explain how the spacecraft got from point A to point B and came back home. Would it be great for college professors to show in the classroom? Absolutely. Would people in a general audience demographic go to a theater or stream/buy such content in numbers high enough to warrant a distribution deal and general release? I doubt it.

It's that balance between showing the humanity and the people involved versus getting too deep-dive oriented into the specialized details and analysis. Ultimately the humanity of a documentary sells it to a more general audience, as does featuring well-known celebrities you can put on the marquee to help boost the profile even more.

And in terms of who would be now chosen to give the Beach Boys history at this point as a talking head onscreen outside the band members themselves in future projects, I'll keep those opinions to myself.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on January 28, 2022, 11:43:17 AM
Beach Boys star Brian Wilson looks back at his life in new film - BBC News

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvQTQvCf6Ds


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Joshilyn Hoisington on January 28, 2022, 12:39:07 PM
Quote
As far as explaining why Brian's music is what it is, again I feel there is a balance between having the appeal to a wide general audience versus doing a deep dive into the theory and analysis in a general release documentary. Let's say they get a musicologist talking about how Brian went from a C sharp half-diminished seventh chord into an E major 6/9 as a deceptive resolution but then borrowed an F#7 flat 9 chord to resolve back to B minor as an example of "key of the moment" analysis...none of that is from Brian's music but it's just an example of how making it too academic would lose most of the audience. It would be like doing a documentary about Apollo 11 and going heavy on content featuring various astrophysicists and literal rocket scientists whiteboarding various formulae and equations to explain how the spacecraft got from point A to point B and came back home. Would it be great for college professors to show in the classroom? Absolutely. Would people in a general audience demographic go to a theater or stream/buy such content in numbers high enough to warrant a distribution deal and general release? I doubt it.

That's still telling rather than showing, and I don't think it matters who does the telling, it's still going to be pointless and circular, whether it's Bruce Springsteen or a Harvard Professor.



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: sloopjohnb72 on January 28, 2022, 01:35:25 PM
However Brian's music is presented, I think there's a happier medium than having Don Was say "Woah, what's that? A banjo and harmonica together? What a genius!" about a song with neither banjo nor harmonica.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Joshilyn Hoisington on January 28, 2022, 02:31:24 PM
However Brian's music is presented, I think there's a happier medium than having Don Was say "Woah, what's that? A banjo and harmonica together? What a genius!" about a song with neither banjo nor harmonica.

Absolutely -- his baffled, shrugged-off inability to understand a production does nobody any favors.  If you're gonna get a talking head to talk about the music, at least don't get a bozo.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on January 28, 2022, 02:45:04 PM
Don Was may not have elucidated well in this new doc, but I don't sense he's a total idiot when it comes to this stuff. Remember that he directed the "I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" doc, and wrote a nice little liner not blurb in the soundtrack CD.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Joshilyn Hoisington on January 28, 2022, 03:29:06 PM
Don Was may not have elucidated well in this new doc, but I don't sense he's a total idiot when it comes to this stuff. Remember that he directed the "I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" doc, and wrote a nice little liner not blurb in the soundtrack CD.

I'm sure he's a lovely, competent man, but if your career is being a musician and you can't tell what a banjo doesn't sound like....  :o


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on January 29, 2022, 08:40:24 AM
Don Was is not a bozo, by any stretch of the imagination. Just look at his resume, which includes four Grammy awards for production (including producer of the year), his production on two of the biggest selling records of the late 80's (Bonnie Raitt and B52's), and he's also been sitting in a big office atop the Capitol tower as president of Blue Note records.

He's probably exaggerating in the film for effect. Like saying "I don't know what that even is!" with a wink and a nod.

In a band history (and fan base) full of bad people and liars through the years, Don Was is truly one of the good guys.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Joshilyn Hoisington on January 29, 2022, 09:53:35 AM
He's probably exaggerating in the film for effect. Like saying "I don't know what that even is!" with a wink and a nod.

Yeah, and the effect is that he comes across as a doofus.  And if he really does know what the instruments are but is intentionally misleading the viewer, that's a different kind of bad.

What if you got a talking head to do a segment in a documentary about Abe Lincoln and he said "Abraham Lincoln sure was great!  I don't really know how he passed the Bill of Rights and the 49th Amendment because I don't know how bills become law, but he sure did, didn't he?"

Again, I'm sure he's a lovely fellow with high competencies in other things -- why not get him to talk about subjects he does know about?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Joshilyn Hoisington on January 29, 2022, 10:17:18 AM
I'm probably being overly critical -- but I still think my point is valid -- why have someone talk about something on a documentary who is not really providing value?

And plus, I've said this elsewhere and I'll say it again, it does a disservice to Brian Wilson to treat what he did as some kind of magic.  I think that's what annoys me so much about the Was segments.  To shrug and say "who knows how he did it?" is a sort of "yadda, yadda, yadda" style glossing-over of all kind of potentially interesting stuff, and yes, even interesting to the armchair fan.  I don't think it's unnecessarily overcomplicating to get somebody on screen who, instead of saying "what the heck is that -- sounds like a banjo and a harmonica!", can say "here we have a piano and a harpsichord playing exactly the same thing with a lot of reverb and delay, which is what gives this track both its rhythm and its otherworldly atmosphere....  And here we have 2 flutes and a clarinet playing this high line together in harmony, which is a great example of Brian learning how to use different instruments than he used to."

I just really believe that to truly appreciate Brian's work, you have to understand that is comprehensible. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: c-man on January 29, 2022, 11:10:12 AM
A brief anecdote regarding Don Was, along a similar line to what's being discussed here (identifying mysterious instruments on a track). Back in '94 or '95, he appeared as a guest on Rockline (remember that?). I called in, got through, and asked a question about a particular instrument on one of the tracks on the recent Was-produced Stones album Voodoo Lounge ("You Got Me Rockin'"). The liners credited Keith with "mystery guitar" on that one, so I asked exactly what that was. Don asked what it sounded like to me - which I appreciated, as he wasn't going to just "give" me the answer, but rather seemed to want me to engage my ears and come up with an educated musical guess. My guess was "dulcimer", and he said, "Close - it's a dobro played with a wooden stick" that Keith had found on the grounds.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on January 31, 2022, 06:57:44 AM
I think most beefs with the Was interviews in the doc (and I mentioned pages back that I don't think a lot of the interviews add much, and are McCartney doc-esque in that they try to sell us on the guy we already like) has to be much more with the director of the film than with Was. The preponderance of the evidence suggests to me much more that the director wanted these generic comments and decided to put them in, rather than evidence suggesting Don Was doesn't have any idea what he's talking about. Was may not be like the sharpest musicologist or Beach Boys/Brian nut, and he may genuinely have just misspoke in this moment. But I think the fact that the clip made it into the doc speaks much more to the director's and the film's limitations than evidence that the problem was that the director needed to seek out a *different* person than Was, or that Was is clueless about studio instrumentation.

They clearly did not intend this film to be a deep-dive for hardcores. Could the director have prompted interview subjects to provide less blindly-fawning-yet-over-generalized comments? Yes, and that's why I don't think this documentary is like "A" material that knocks it out of the park on any particular level.

While I think the film could have gone to greater lengths to SHOW us Brian's musical genius rather than just have talking heads tell us he's great, I do also recognize the limitations of the mainstream release music documentary genre. I don't think the director even stretched the limits of that genre, but I also don't know *how* much farther he could have gone. I think the guy in the "I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" doc back in '94/'95 showing the unconventional chord change in "The Warmth of the Sun" is about as deep-dive as a 90-minute mainstream doc can get, unfortunately.

I think the film's main success is just the access they got to show us a little glimpse into what Brian is like now, what his life is like. I'd just as soon have them cut all the interviews and give us two hours of Fine spitballing stuff to Brian like a Rorschach test. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Joshilyn Hoisington on January 31, 2022, 08:11:25 AM
I think most beefs with the Was interviews in the doc (and I mentioned pages back that I don't think a lot of the interviews add much, and are McCartney doc-esque in that they try to sell us on the guy we already like) has to be much more with the director of the film than with Was. The preponderance of the evidence suggests to me much more that the director wanted these generic comments and decided to put them in, rather than evidence suggesting Don Was doesn't have any idea what he's talking about. Was may not be like the sharpest musicologist or Beach Boys/Brian nut, and he may genuinely have just misspoke in this moment. But I think the fact that the clip made it into the doc speaks much more to the director's and the film's limitations than evidence that the problem was that the director needed to seek out a *different* person than Was, or that Was is clueless about studio instrumentation.

They clearly did not intend this film to be a deep-dive for hardcores. Could the director have prompted interview subjects to provide less blindly-fawning-yet-over-generalized comments? Yes, and that's why I don't think this documentary is like "A" material that knocks it out of the park on any particular level.

While I think the film could have gone to greater lengths to SHOW us Brian's musical genius rather than just have talking heads tell us he's great, I do also recognize the limitations of the mainstream release music documentary genre. I don't think the director even stretched the limits of that genre, but I also don't know *how* much farther he could have gone. I think the guy in the "I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" doc back in '94/'95 showing the unconventional chord change in "The Warmth of the Sun" is about as deep-dive as a 90-minute mainstream doc can get, unfortunately.

I think the film's main success is just the access they got to show us a little glimpse into what Brian is like now, what his life is like. I'd just as soon have them cut all the interviews and give us two hours of Fine spitballing stuff to Brian like a Rorschach test. 

Entirely fair and accurate assessment of the film's weaknesses.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on January 31, 2022, 07:05:24 PM
In all fairness, who knows but the producers how many hours of interview footage they got from the various interviewees in the documentary, and as previously stated they take very little of the raw interview to edit and use in the actual film. They can shift reality into any narrative if they choose by simply choosing what and how to edit.

So I don't think Don Was is a bozo, and with a 40+ year track record of producing massive selling records and reviving stalled careers and sales figures of artists by doing so, I hope he's earned more respect than this name calling.

One thing I'll always credit Don for is the IJWMFTT documentary. He didn't go into it looking to cash in on Brian, or exploit him as so many have. He played a charity benefit gig with Brian, having not worked closely with him before, and he got this feeling that came over him and the people there that night as they played the set that was like magic. I think we've all had a moment like that either seeing Brian live or listening to the records. For me those are numerous, but one sticks out: God Only Knows in Boston during the Smile tour. I haven't felt anything like that before or since, and I know what Don is talking about without trying to define his experience from afar. You can't explain it, but it's truly the magic of this man's music to literally lift up an entire audience for 4 minutes and get them all in sync with the music and each other. Magic.

And Don Was is the one who wanted to capture that in his film, however much is possible. I think he did for some fans like me when Brian and Van Dyke are playing OCR at a piano. It's so simple, but you can feel the energy coming through when those two guys are making music. And that film came at just the right time in history. 

Anyone who can feel that and try to capture and share part of it is OK in my book. Actually more than OK, and a guy who has produced that many albums and has worked with that many diverse artists knows what a banjo is and sounds like and knows how to make records, let's be honest.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Ptolemaios on February 01, 2022, 10:10:53 PM
Few more comments I’d like to make. I understand and agree the comments and analysis made here about some of the choices in the new docu. However, the weaknesses of the let’s call it “commercial school” (or “targeting the average Joe” school) of docu making are blatant and I wish this approach didn’t dominate the BB and Brian docus. We should stop making excuses for the obvious weaknesses in the docus about the BB and Brian.

Criticizing does not mean doubting the good will of the production team.

Just on a general level of pondering when we think about let’s say movie directors we don’t make excuses for the weaknesses in their movies by going through reasons like “yeah, sure the direction in places was obviously bad, the dialogue was written as if talking to a child, and the script definitely should have been more tight in some places and maybe the totally unnecessary nudity featuring Kate Upton’s twins didn’t add anything of value to the movie. But you know what? They have to think about the commercial aspects of releasing a movie. It’s all about compromises. And even though the young lead actor was weak in the movie they were lucky to have him in it cos’ it was an understandable choice to include him as many of the younger generation are going to make a note about the director because he was in the movie.” This is not the correct way to go about it in my opinion.

Maybe criticism in the past has been overunderstanding because the hc-fans don’t want to seem like they are somehow criticizing Brian himself.

Ever since atleast the ‘Smile revisited’ era began in 2003-2004 instead of accepting in a understanding manner the weak documentaries – Beautiful dreamer included -  there should have been a strong but well reasoned push from the hc-fans towards the band’s and Brian’s camp to demand documentary material of higher quality in the vein of the Beatles Anthology series. (I am aware Anthology has been mentioned over the years many times as a model in content and quality for a potential BB docuseries and probably this idea has been in the minds of people in charge even though for whatever reason it - probably money - has not happened.) Instead we get these slightly embarrassing cavalcades of celebrity talking heads doing the “I don’t know how he did it”, “Brian’s a genius” typre of docus. I can’t help it but I find these types of docus very infantile, embarrassing even. It would have been almost comical if in the Anthology series every now and then the head of some celebrity head had popped up to say: “That Paul sure knows how to play dat bass!”, “John really was a genius!”, “I don’t know how they did it”, and so on.

On a side note. Regardless of any documentaries to me the whole “Brian’s a genius” pr-ploy is an obvious example of almost childish hype. If Brian did display genius level creativity back in the 1960’s it doesn’t need to be emphasised in that way. No thinking adult human being needs to be convinced about Mozart’s or Beethoven’s genius. I doubt celebrity heads popping up to enforce that image to the audience will lead to any average Joe watching these docus to think: “That Brian sure must be something special because the members of the elite millionare club in their mansions are telling me so.” I truly hope any future documentary will take a more mature and content driven approach to create docus that don’t rely on cheap propaganda tricks to supposedly maximize commercial value.

For reasons I don’t know no A-level director has taken it up on themselves to make a truly high quality docu of BB or Brian despite Brian’s and the band's status in popular culture. There should be someone on the level of Scorsese or Peter Jackson to handle a docuseries of the band but I don’t know if the BB and Brian are big enough names to draw the interest of a major director of that level. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: guitarfool2002 on February 02, 2022, 12:56:12 AM
Few more comments I’d like to make. I understand and agree the comments and analysis made here about some of the choices in the new docu. However, the weaknesses of the let’s call it “commercial school” (or “targeting the average Joe” school) of docu making are blatant and I wish this approach didn’t dominate the BB and Brian docus. We should stop making excuses for the obvious weaknesses in the docus about the BB and Brian.

Criticizing does not mean doubting the good will of the production team.

Just on a general level of pondering when we think about let’s say movie directors we don’t make excuses for the weaknesses in their movies by going through reasons like “yeah, sure the direction in places was obviously bad, the dialogue was written as if talking to a child, and the script definitely should have been more tight in some places and maybe the totally unnecessary nudity featuring Kate Upton’s twins didn’t add anything of value to the movie. But you know what? They have to think about the commercial aspects of releasing a movie. It’s all about compromises. And even though the young lead actor was weak in the movie they were lucky to have him in it cos’ it was an understandable choice to include him as many of the younger generation are going to make a note about the director because he was in the movie.” This is not the correct way to go about it in my opinion.

Maybe criticism in the past has been overunderstanding because the hc-fans don’t want to seem like they are somehow criticizing Brian himself.

Ever since atleast the ‘Smile revisited’ era began in 2003-2004 instead of accepting in a understanding manner the weak documentaries – Beautiful dreamer included -  there should have been a strong but well reasoned push from the hc-fans towards the band’s and Brian’s camp to demand documentary material of higher quality in the vein of the Beatles Anthology series. (I am aware Anthology has been mentioned over the years many times as a model in content and quality for a potential BB docuseries and probably this idea has been in the minds of people in charge even though for whatever reason it - probably money - has not happened.) Instead we get these slightly embarrassing cavalcades of celebrity talking heads doing the “I don’t know how he did it”, “Brian’s a genius” typre of docus. I can’t help it but I find these types of docus very infantile, embarrassing even. It would have been almost comical if in the Anthology series every now and then the head of some celebrity head had popped up to say: “That Paul sure knows how to play dat bass!”, “John really was a genius!”, “I don’t know how they did it”, and so on.

On a side note. Regardless of any documentaries to me the whole “Brian’s a genius” pr-ploy is an obvious example of almost childish hype. If Brian did display genius level creativity back in the 1960’s it doesn’t need to be emphasised in that way. No thinking adult human being needs to be convinced about Mozart’s or Beethoven’s genius. I doubt celebrity heads popping up to enforce that image to the audience will lead to any average Joe watching these docus to think: “That Brian sure must be something special because the members of the elite millionare club in their mansions are telling me so.” I truly hope any future documentary will take a more mature and content driven approach to create docus that don’t rely on cheap propaganda tricks to supposedly maximize commercial value.

For reasons I don’t know no A-level director has taken it up on themselves to make a truly high quality docu of BB or Brian despite Brian’s and the band's status in popular culture. There should be someone on the level of Scorsese or Peter Jackson to handle a docuseries of the band but I don’t know if the BB and Brian are big enough names to draw the interest of a major director of that level.  


I think the issue might be that a documentary along the lines of The Beatles Anthology related to the Beach Boys might not have the material to fill such a project. There just isn't that much footage from the era, let's say from the beginning of it all up to 1976 (being generous on that cut-off year), when the band made their most iconic and influential music. And how many documentaries have fans already seen that have basically the same clips any Anthology type of project would include? Going back to Malcolm Leo's American Band, fans have had a lot of documentaries to watch. And a lot of the relatively small amount of footage available has already been included. How much more could be included?

And there's another issue: The Beatles had a definite end point. When it was over, it was over for good and they never reunited as the original four members. So how many people would want to see 10 hours of a documentary showing different versions of the touring bands playing the hits over several decades? There's not as much of an appeal there as there was to The Beatles footage, and again there was much more Beatles footage available to use and string together to make a cohesive, long-form documentary. Does anyone want to see various concert clips from the 80's that haven't already been seen? And was any truly new or influential music being made after the band became primarily a touring outfit playing hits for fans? Maybe among hardcore fans, but how many versions of the hits would other viewers be drawn into seeing on video?

With Brian's solo career, a long form documentary could be cobbled together using various footage from camcorders and even cel phones, showing behind the scenes and cel phone videos and whatnot. I think fans of Brian's music would like something like that.

But it's hard to go beyond the availability of footage showing the band in their prime. There can never be a "Get Back" type of Beach Boys project because the footage was never shot in the first place. I don't know how appealing it would be for a potential audience who isn't hard-core fans to watch a collection of clips from 1976 onward, because a lot of the output or content simply wasn't up to par.

And with the available footage, how much more can be done with it that has not already been done before in previous documentaries on the band?

On one other point: If people are asked what they think of Brian and his music, and they call him a genius or his musical skills on par with Mozart or whomever else they compare, that's entirely their opinion! Should they be told in a pre-interview or in a script not to say those things? There was an interview with Clapton done in the 80's where he was asked about the "Clapton Is God" graffitti that was showing up around Britain in the mid 60's. Clapton said something like "what did you expect me to do, scrub it off?" And that's the perfect answer on multiple levels. Was Clapton to blame for his fans painting "Clapton Is God" on buildings and walls across the UK? Were the fans wrong for saying that? And the publicity it generated didn't come from a PR firm or street team going around painting that to sell more records and boost profiles.

So if fans and other musicians are and have been saying "Brian is a musical genius", what is he expected to do, argue with them? Or order that such opinions be barred from any documentaries about him or the band? And at what point did people saying such things become part of an organized "ploy" rather than an expressed opinion?

Scorcese struck gold with both his Harrison and Dylan documentaries because no one had really taken such an in-depth look at either artist on that level. They were also, basically, the same kind of clip and interview docs as is standard, but the hook was the subjects had not been explored in that way before. Jackson had a goldmine to work with when he got the "Get Back" footage to craft a film because barely anyone had ever seen the majority of that footage for 50 years, and above all it's The Beatles. It's guaranteed to sell and generate interest, especially touting previously unseen footage that's been sealed up for 50 years. Anthology was similar in that the general public had not seen a majority of those clips before, or had not seen them since the 60's except for The Compleat Beatles perhaps. That was lightning in a bottle.

We talk about repackaging the hits on various "Greatest Hits" album releases through the years: Wouldn't it be the same if the same film clips that have been in Beach Boys documentaries for decades get repackaged in a new release?



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on February 02, 2022, 06:43:01 AM
I don't want to get too sidetracked with other docs, but I'd say the Scorsese Harrison doc was pretty disappointing. That Harrison doc *didn't* have nearly as many limitations as a BB doc/doc series would, and yet it was stunningly not very fulfilling. It wasn't awful, but for taking *so* much time (about 3 and 1/2 hours), it skipped vast swaths of interesting and pertinent story, and fell into the trap of focusing too much on Harrison's Beatles days (the first part seeming to be a more Harrison-centric remake of the "The Beatles Anthology") and only touching on the obvious few bullet points in his solo career (All Things Must Pass, Bangla Desh, the '74 tour, the Wilburys, the end of his life, etc.). I think some genuinely moving and harrowing interview clips (especially Olivia Harrison's description of the break-in/attack at Friar Park) and the occasional bit of truly mind-blowing rare footage (actual footage of Paul and George singing the dissolution papers in 1974) may have slightly obscured the limitation of the doc as a whole. I also felt like Scorsese didn't do a whole lot on it and left the bulk of the doc to a team of editors.

I point all of that out also in relation to Brian/the Beach Boys to point out how it's difficult to do a great doc even with the huge resources on multiple levels that that Scorsese Harrison doc had (plenty of archives with Apple and the Harrison estate, much more running time to work with, more funding, the backing of HBO, etc.).

I think the "commercial" considerations for the "Long Promised Road" documentary are just realities of the situation. The producers and others working on his film know the nuts and bolts of how to get the eyes of distributors. I'm not into making excuses for the doc. But certainly *some* of the drawbacks of it are a result of things that needed to be done to get the thing distributed, and to get some potential awards buzz (and indeed the Brian/Jim James song is shortlisted for an Oscar nomination at least). I think even within the constraints, the film is only okay-to-pretty-good. It really succeeds in that intimate Brian footage. The through-line on the story and the interviews are hit-and-miss. I appreciate the on-screen text very simply but succinctly explaining some of the evolution of Brian's condition over the years. But a bit more of a deep dive on that as well would have been nice.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on February 09, 2022, 06:36:22 AM
It finally came to the UK last week or two, playing in some smaller, independent-type arty cinemas.

And it was beautiful. It's great to here Brian talking about things that matter to him, which sit quite apart from the "Yup. California girls."-type interviews.

Also the fact that Brian is so motivated by food warms my heart.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: PickupExcitations on February 12, 2022, 08:52:27 AM
One question: there are a little baby and a lady in the end of the documentary, who are they?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Steve Mayo on February 13, 2022, 06:01:19 PM
[quote I'll keep those opinions to myself.
[/quote]


can you do that with all of them?


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: positivemusic on February 17, 2022, 10:54:32 AM
Finally saw this recently and I have to saw, being a hardcore fan, some of the studio and everyday stuff was cool, but overall, I didn't find it very illuminating.

I did, however, walk away with a profound sadness. It was pretty depressing, though not surprising, to watch Brian repeatedly reminiscing and expressing his grief at the loss of Dennis, Carl, and Jack.

I'm sure that it makes him come across as more human to those who don't know him or his story, but for me, personally it just made me sad. It was honestly gut-wrenching and very uneasy to see Brian react to the news of Jack's passing and try to bottle up his emotions about that, as well as Dennis and Carl's untimely demises.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: UEF on February 21, 2022, 08:44:42 AM
Is there much to the blu ray extras? That’s out now


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: rab2591 on March 09, 2022, 04:00:35 AM
Long Promised Road is the iTunes movie of the week, in case anyone wants to see it for a very low price.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pacific Ocean Blue on March 11, 2022, 01:50:02 AM
I get the impression that Brian talks (and is 'in the room' as his attention span goes) when the subject matter is interesting to him, and that talking about broadly the same topics he has for 50 years isn't interesting to him. Brian is a rich man, and unlike most of us, doesn't have to pretend to be interested in things he isn't for money.



I kinda got that impression from him when Jason asked him about POB, he started singing parts of "You and I" and got really happy


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Pretty Funky on June 07, 2022, 03:03:00 AM
Sorry, put this up in the soundtrack thread, but I think it was mentioned the footage of Brian’s return to Hawthorne High wasn’t used?

https://youtu.be/tLWhEbGMTAo


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: phirnis on June 07, 2022, 07:28:54 AM
Finally saw this recently and I have to saw, being a hardcore fan, some of the studio and everyday stuff was cool, but overall, I didn't find it very illuminating.

I did, however, walk away with a profound sadness. It was pretty depressing, though not surprising, to watch Brian repeatedly reminiscing and expressing his grief at the loss of Dennis, Carl, and Jack.

I'm sure that it makes him come across as more human to those who don't know him or his story, but for me, personally it just made me sad. It was honestly gut-wrenching and very uneasy to see Brian react to the news of Jack's passing and try to bottle up his emotions about that, as well as Dennis and Carl's untimely demises.

I haven't seen the whole film but the scene where Brian hears that Jack Reiley died a couple of years ago made me feel very uneasy. Seeing celebrities in such emotional moments is hardly unusual but this little episode from the doc made me actually wish I hadn't seen it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on June 08, 2022, 06:53:17 AM
The Rieley bit from the film was one of the most interesting and moving. It was only colored a bit by knowing Brian had surely previously been told of his death and had forgotten. But whatever the circumstances, it was a genuine emotional reaction from Brian, and really that's the thing in that documentary that makes it worth seeing (not the talking heads telling us what WE already know, which is that Brian's insanely talented, etc.).

I've been saying since the film came out that I'd rather see 2 or 3 hours of Brian having topics and songs and questions tossed his way and seeing what happens (I recall Howie Edelson describing one type of back and forth interviewing Brian being sort of like a verbal Rorschach test), more of like what we see in those bits with Brian and Jason Fine, rather than the talking heads telling me what I already know (and not even really *explaining* Brian's talent particularly well to "casual" viewers).

No more talking heads, no more leading questions that will get you "yes" and "no" answers (I'm amazed how many interviewers still go into interviews with Brian not understanding that; I'm not saying he's an "easy" interview, but there some easy things to avoid to at least possibly get better results). And yes, when Brian is comfortable enough with someone who he has talked to many times, then going a bit more "difficult" on the emotional questions can be revealing in a very positive way. The people who really understand Brian and know his deal know how to do this.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Ian on June 08, 2022, 01:19:49 PM
I think it’s been suggested that maybe Brian wasn’t informed and his website people issued the statement when Jack died without actually discussing it with the big man. It’s a little strange that a statement is given that is posed as if Brian wrote it but Stranger things have previously happened


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: HeyJude on June 09, 2022, 06:41:36 AM
Surely others write the social media messages, whether written in the voice of Brian or the voice of the "team" so to speak. I sense they seek Brian out to convey the gist/tone/vibe of what they're going for, especially in past years, and/or to give the "OK" to the message. Other more procedural things probably don't need a sign-off, and that's the norm for many social media accounts for famous folks.

That being said, I think the simpler answer is that Brian was told of Rieley's passing back when it happened, and he forgot. There would be no reason to not tell him back when it happened. I think it might be difficult to imagine Brian forgetting something like that, but I think it's totally plausible and I wouldn't think less of him if that were the case. Dude is 80 years old; a LOT of contemporaries and family members have passed away in his lifetime, and a lot in only the last 5 or 10 years. Also, when was the last time Brian had actually had any contact with Rieley? I think he may well have experienced the news of his death (twice) the way many of us would experience hearing about someone we haven't seen in decades but at one point had a short but intense relationship/interaction with.

I am curious to know if the filmmakers were aware that Brian had "posted" about Rieley's death, and that Brian had likely forgotten. But as I've said, his emotional reaction is clearly genuine and impactful regardless of the circumstances, so I'm glad they put it in the film.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocky Raccoon on June 10, 2022, 03:55:45 AM
Long Promised Road is airing on PBS (US TV) this coming Tuesday as part of their American Masters series.
https://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/stream-brian-wilson-documentary/21858/


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on June 12, 2022, 06:13:39 AM
Watch Brian Wilson produce a song | Brian Wilson | American Masters | PBS


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JOo8JH1_7A


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Rocker on June 12, 2022, 10:45:38 AM
When journalist Jason Fine first met Brian Wilson | Brian Wilson | American Masters | PBS


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhYdNSbW7Yo



Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: sea of tunes on June 17, 2022, 11:56:01 PM
I was fortunate to see "Long Promised Road" at my local art house last winter and I did enjoy it. I did have some minor quibbles with it that have all pretty much been covered ad nauseam.

My major criticism is that it occasionally too hagiographic. I found myself comparing it to the emotional beats of 'I Just Wasn't Made for These Times" and by comparison, "Long Promised Road" suffered, for me.

When IJWMFTT was released in 1995, it aired for a short time on the Disney Channel of all places and that's where I first encountered it. It had quite a profound affect on my assessment of The Beach Boys music as a whole. I would point to it alone as having turned me into a BW fanatic.

IJWMFTT doesn't shy away from painting BW as a flawed man, father and husband. That makes him human. And, in my mind, that's where LPR fails. Still, it's a lovingly crafted documentary that deserves to be seen.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on June 29, 2022, 12:46:00 AM
My daughter said she saw it on her plane on her way to Boston to see her aunt last week. Second time seeing it for her .


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: send me a picture and i'll tell you on July 14, 2022, 09:23:52 PM
So is the soundtrack ever having a physical release? I thought it was supposed to come out a couple of weeks ago, but Google shows no signs of its existence.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Awesoman on July 15, 2022, 06:18:31 AM
So is the soundtrack ever having a physical release? I thought it was supposed to come out a couple of weeks ago, but Google shows no signs of its existence.

Amazon has an entry for it but it is currently "unavailable".  🤷‍♂️

Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road Soundtrack https://a.co/d/8x95LtM

Must have only entertained a limited release. 


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Emdeeh on July 15, 2022, 07:36:09 AM
The soundtrack is available on CD, so they must be out of stock on Amazon. I got my CD of it from them, but I also preordered it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Steve Mayo on July 15, 2022, 01:50:23 PM
I preordered mine back in april. It arrived about three weeks ago.

Amazon and walmart and the like ran out days after the physical release and i was told more were coming.
 I did try to help a friend out and found a place about two weeks ago that had it in stock. I have no clue if they still have it in stock. Here is the info current the first of this month:

(https://i.ibb.co/tLDCqnj/8-F514-E4-A-1761-4-EA4-A6-E1-5800580152-EE.png) (https://ibb.co/7kKynBM)

(https://i.ibb.co/MVf1Tzw/5-D03-F126-0-FEF-4-AA3-ACF2-F50739-CD35-D7.png) (https://ibb.co/Wy0z9r8)

The web page was shop.twistandshout.com








Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: send me a picture and i'll tell you on July 15, 2022, 04:26:50 PM
I preordered mine back in april. It arrived about three weeks ago.

Amazon and walmart and the like ran out days after the physical release and i was told more were coming.
 I did try to help a friend out and found a place about two weeks ago that had it in stock. I have no clue if they still have it in stock. Here is the info current the first of this month:


Thanks for the info, Steve— I ordered it.

Too bad you can’t go to, say, lakeshorerecords.com and just order it. That would make it a lot easier for the perhaps 300 other people who want this and are presumably also having trouble finding it.


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Steve Mayo on July 15, 2022, 04:40:53 PM
Welcome


Title: Re: Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road (2019 Brent Wilson Documentary)
Post by: Lonely Summer on July 15, 2022, 08:13:25 PM
I assumed incorrectly it was coming out on vinyl, since that's the trendy thing today.