Its length causes it to run out of steam and although its not a great musical there are some segments that are very well done. There is a very good British supporting cast of comedy actors led by Lionel Jeffries and Benny Hill.
Its about time they got rid of these dramatisations and leave it to the documentary maker particularly with difficult subjects like Brian Wilson. Cusak is a good actor but he struggles here. Giamatti who excels in hysteria is in his element.
One of those films that you can miss twenty minutes and it wouldn't matter as what you've missed is what you are seeing now.The supporting cast are very good and the non stop action is never boring – hard to dislike.
If you haven't read the book you may enjoy the film more. The stories were intelligent & influential & as a compilation would be hard to convey on film.The casting of Smith is a giveaway that the film has sacrificed some intelligence for entertainment.
AKA "Ruth and Alex".Because of the magical paring of Keaton and Freeman the film gets away with the sentimentalities of the plot which never the less has a strong script and interesting support characters headed by a terrific Cynthia Nixon.
It tells an interesting story compactly – the drama is enhanced by different lighting choices, make up & with what is probably over acting (but it is enjoyable). One of the best low budget films perhaps(?)