With the lives of Ray Charles, Johnny Cash and a host of other musical legends already in the Hollywood can, it seems only logical for the story of Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys to hit the screen. Particularly when Wilson is still alive to consult on it – and the fact that his is a tale riddled with struggles and problems.
Producer Mark Gordon (The Day After Tomorrow) has sealed a deal with Wilson to make the movie, which director David Leaf – who has already worked with the man himself to document making his recent Smile album – calling the shots. "I love the idea of there being a movie on my life, and I can't wait to see the script," Wilson told Variety, while revealing that he’s also allowing the filmmakers to use his back catalogue of memorable music, including God Only Knows, Good Vibrations and California Girls.
Gordon also praised the musician for his openness about the darker patches of his life. "I admire Brian for his willingness to tell his story truthfully," he told the trade magazine "It's complex and there is a lot to be learned from what he went through. It's easier to tell that story when you're in a good place and you have a happy ending. Brian has that now."
Despite writing some of the most memorable and successful music in American history, Wilson also had to deal with being deaf in one ear and being bullied by his father, who forced the group to hire him as their first manager. He suffered from depression and a nervous breakdown. "It's tough, and when I see the movie I'll be ill at ease at some of the bad parts,” Wilson admits. But I remember when we made Pet Sounds, and I knew we were up to something spiritual and special. I have that feeling again.”
The team is now looking for a writer.