Love & Mercy

"Love and Mercy" is a biographical drama that explores the complex life of musician and band leader Brian Wilson. The film depicts two pivotal periods in Wilson's life: the 1960s, where he experiences creative brilliance and battles with mental health issues, and the 1980s, when he finds solace with his second wife after a tumultuous period under the care of an unscrupulous therapist.

Similar to Brian Wilson, the innovative force behind the Beach Boys, this film embraces experimentation. Rather than relying on a single actor to depict Wilson's tumultuous journey through drug abuse and mental illness, director Bill Pohlad introduces two remarkable performances to "Love and Mercy" to depict the famous band leader in two most important periods of his life.

As the film alternates between these two periods, it paints a portrait of a brilliant artist struggling with mental illness and the destructive forces that threaten to engulf him. From there, the movie poignantly explores Brian Wilson's personal journey, his artistic vision, and the redemptive power of love and compassion.

Release: 2014

Stars: John Cusack, Paul Dano, Elizabeth Banks

Rotten Tomatoes: 90%