We’ve enjoyed their music for more than 60 years, but the story of the Beach Boys is long, complex, and layered. As we hit Memorial Day Weekend, many will likely be focused on beach outings and the joy of summer. That makes it a perfect time for this new documentary—which provides the inside story of the Beach Boys—to be released to audiences.
The documentary, The Beach Boys, drops on Disney+ today. It’s a chronicle of the band, its music, and the behind-the-scenes tension and drama that led to the group coming apart. We know the songs, but this is an inside look at the story.
We’ve gotten glimpses before through scripted dramas about the band and its members. But this new documentary includes archival footage, interviews with bandmembers and fans, and a deep dive into the real story. Through it all, we get a great exploration of the timeless songs that have entertained audiences for generations.
The documentary comes from directors Frank Marshall and Thom Zimny, with a script from Mark Monroe. I was moved by the way it chronicled the story and provided insight from the band members, along with recollections from audiences.
Coming into the film, I was somewhat familiar with the Beach Boys music. But what struck me in this was the story of the band, their creative process, and the tension that led to its end. There are a number of moments and interviews that are stirring and emotional as we take this journey.
The best documentaries inform, entertain, and tell you something new. I felt like I got that with this story of a band I’ve heard but didn’t know. For fans of the Beach Boys, or those that just want an interesting trip down memory lane, this is worth checking out.
The Beach Boys is now streaming on Disney+.
Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.




Leave a comment