Watch You Think You Really Know Me: The Gary Wilson Story

Gary Wilson, a pioneering musician, composer, and performer in the underground music scene of the 1970s, is the subject of the 2005 documentary film, "You Think You Really Know Me: The Gary Wilson Story". The film, directed by Michael Wolk, explores Wilson's life, work, and influence on modern rock and electronic music. Born in 1953 in Endicott, New York, Gary Wilson started playing the piano at the age of six and formed his first band in high school. In the early 1970s, he recorded his first album, "Another Galaxy", in his own living room, using a four-track recorder and his own instruments. The album, which combined elements of funk, rock, and experimental music, was ahead of its time and attracted a cult following among music connoisseurs.

"You Think You Really Know Me" takes the viewer on a journey through Wilson's life, from his childhood and early musical influences to his rise to underground fame in the 1970s, his disappearance from the music scene in the 1980s, and his unexpected comeback in the 1990s. Through interviews with Wilson and his family, friends, and fellow musicians, as well as rare concert footage and archival material, the film offers a comprehensive portrait of an enigmatic artist who defied conventions and pushed the boundaries of music.

The film unfolds as a mix of interviews, performance footage, and documentary-style scenes that capture Wilson's eccentric personality, his complex relationships with his family and bandmates, and his idiosyncratic creative process. The film also explores themes such as mental health, addiction, and creativity, shedding light on the personal struggles and artistic vision of one of the most influential and misunderstood figures in modern music.

Aside from Wilson himself, the film features interviews with a diverse cast of musicians and experts, including Ariel Pink, Beck, Peanut Butter Wolf, James Pants, and Henry Rollins, who share their insights and anecdotes about Wilson's music and legacy. The film also features a soundtrack composed of Wilson's classic songs, such as "6.4 = Make Out" and "You Think You Really Know Me", as well as newly recorded versions by contemporary artists who have been influenced by Wilson's work.

Directed with a keen eye for detail and an affectionate tribute to Wilson's singular vision, "You Think You Really Know Me" is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of rock, electronic and experimental music, and the untold stories of visionary artists who have changed the course of music history. Wilson's influence on contemporary music is undeniable, as evidenced by the numerous artists who have cited him as an inspiration, and this film is a testament to his enduring legacy as a musical innovator and pioneer.

Overall, "You Think You Really Know Me: The Gary Wilson Story" is a fascinating and entertaining documentary about an under-recognized artist whose contribution to music deserves to be celebrated and studied. The film offers a rare glimpse into the life of a true original, whose music has influenced generations of musicians and whose story is an inspiration to creative minds everywhere. If you haven't seen it yet, you should definitely check it out.