The Byrd Who Flew Alone: The Triumphs and Tragedy of Gene Clark (2013)

Very disappointing...

Perfect cast and a good story

Watching it is like watching the spectacle of a class clown at their best: you laugh at their jokes, instigate their defiance, and "ooooh" when they get in trouble.

It is encouraging that the film ends so strongly.Otherwise, it wouldn't have been a particularly memorable film

Tipped off by Uncut magazine this was well worth the wait and, although mixed with the joy that is the music of Gene Clark and the sadness that he flew from us too early, or perhaps too high like Icarus, I approached this DVD with some trepidation in fear of tainting my misty memories. No cause for concern though as, albeit with limited footage available, the producers have gathered together a fitting tribute encompassing the insight of fellow Byrds, wife and family, friends and fellow journeymen troubadours. Thank you! After watching the film and delving through the extras, most of which warrant inclusion, it only led me to dig out all the old vinyl and indulge and immerse once more. Pride of place went to listening to and pouring over my signed copies of White Light, but especially my Dutch pressing of Roadmaster which back in 1976 I think it was at the Leeds Uni McGuinn Clark Hillman gig, provoked the response from the great man of "Did I make this?" as he had never seen the sleeve before. Suffice to say our ten minutes conversation was a time to treasure on my part.Perhaps I am preaching to the already converted but if anyone has any interest in probably the most enigmatic Byrd then do not hesitate to watch this worthy film.And in conclusion, yes, "No Other" is still firmly ensconced in my top 5 albums of all time!

I'm soon to be 62 and it was a real fortunate time in my life to know Beatlemania and following with the DC5, and others of the British Invasion, but when the Byrds answered the call with Tambourine Man, I was hooked.It wasn't till much later in life that I got to know Gene's music. Both Dillard & Clark and Allison Krausse/Robert Plant.I began delving into songs like "Through The Morning, Through The Night" and I wasn't even aware that it was the same man who wrote and sang I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better.The enigma that began to show itself over and over again with the deaths of Gram Parsons, Hendrix, etc. making me ask the question; Why? That culture that consumed so many lives, a mix of decadence, drugs and fame, all being a cruel mistress who doesn't care a whit of one's accomplishments and notoriety. We see it still with the Lohan's and Biebers to this day.This DVD certainly hit dead on straight, watching a life spiral down and crash. It felt like watching a train crash in slow motion, much like the Gram Parsons DVD. You want there to be a good ending, but its not to be.Thank you to the Four Sons production team who put this together. The many, many interviews showed us a very vulnerable man.

I love this DVD partly because it takes me back to my teacher training college days of the early 1970s. I only wish that, then, I had been more aware of the talent that was Gene Clark. But this film fills the gap. Considering the limited footage that was available, Four Suns Productions have created a deeply sympathetic film of a fantastic musician, but is also honest about the flawed man. I find the interviews with family, friends and musicians frank and thought provoking and I have to express my admiration for the interviewee(s). The choice of background music is wonderful and the end footage left me with wet eyes... Thanks must go to Paul Kendall and his sons for the commitment and dedication that went into this tribute to Gene Clark.

Those of us familiar with Gene Clark's music - both with the Byrds and after finally have a cinematic glimpse into his life and psyche as one of the originators of country rock. Interviews with Gene's compadres help fill in some of the blanks about his life and the reasons for his lack of success in his post-Byrds music career. We finally get to meet his ex-wife Carlie Clark and hear from both of his sons as to their experiences with their dad. The repeated theme is of an extremely soulful and talented songwriter always on the brink of success, who always falls back at the last moment. Anyone who enjoys music will enjoy this film and the tasteful use of Gene's music throughout! Kudos to the production team of Paul Kendall and his sons!