Watch Barrett, Syd - Under Review

Barrett, Syd - Under Review is a documentary film that takes a closer look at the life and career of the late Syd Barrett, one of the co-founders of Pink Floyd. The film features interviews with some of Barrett's closest friends and colleagues, as well as rarely-seen archival footage and music performances. The film is structured in a chronological manner, beginning with Barrett's childhood and early days as a musician in Cambridge, England. It then documents his formation of Pink Floyd in the mid-1960s, which would go on to become one of the most successful and innovative rock bands of all time. However, as Pink Floyd gained fame and fortune, Barrett began to struggle with his mental health and eventually left the band in 1968.

The documentary examines the effects of Barrett's departure on Pink Floyd, as well as his subsequent solo career and the impact that his music had on future generations of musicians. We hear from notable artists, such as David Bowie and Robyn Hitchcock, who have been influenced by Barrett's unconventional songwriting and distinctive vocal style.

Throughout the film, there is an emphasis on Barrett's unique creative talents, but also his personal struggles with mental illness. Interviews with family members and friends shed light on the difficult times that Barrett faced in his later years, including his retreat from public life and eventual death in 2006 at the age of 60.

The film also delves into the cultural context of 1960s London, exploring the rise of psychedelia and countercultural movements that Barrett was a part of. It provides a vivid picture of the music scene of the era, with interviews from musicians, critics, and writers who were there at the time.

Overall, Barrett, Syd - Under Review is a comprehensive and sensitive portrait of an enigmatic and influential musician. It offers a perspective on the life and legacy of Syd Barrett that goes beyond the sensationalist headlines that often surrounded him, and seeks to contextualize his work within the broader cultural and musical landscape of his time. It is a valuable documentary for anyone interested in Pink Floyd, 1960s culture, or the creative impact of mental health.