The Beach Boys and the Satan (ABC Entertainment)

The Beach Boys is, without a doubt, a seminal band in the history of Rock & Roll. “The Beach Boys and the Satan” is a fascinating and absorbing German documentary in which the filmmakers not only present aspects of their work and legacy, but also connect this band with Charles Manson, whose tribe was responsible for the brutal assassinations of Sharon Tate and others on August, 1969. Through interviews with several players, including Brian Wilson – the so-called band’s brain –, we learn about the relation between Beach Boy Dennis Wilson – who tragically died in an accident – and record producer Terry Melcher, who at one time lived at 10050 Cielo Drive, site of the murders. The DVD has plenty of music and, in a very creative way, documents the bands career, especially the classic “Pet Sounds,” giving us a starting point to explore their music and history. (Germany, 1997, color and B & W, 59 min)