You're Gonna Miss Me

Was really wowed by this film. There are moments of utter brilliance, both comedic and dramatic. I laughed throughout the entire film, but the whole thing was suffused with a tragic tenderness that squeezed my heart. Rocky as a young musician is irresistible--charming, handsome, talented, charismatic. Rocky as an aging, mentally ill, reclusive former rocker is equally irresistible. The film takes us on an incredible journey from one to the other and stands out because in Rocky's world, there doesn't seem to be one bedrock of sanity. The filmmaker creates a world completely oblivious and impervious to the one we live in; one we see but can't really believe exists. The music is phenomenal. Truly one of America's untold rock legends.

After seeing the movie, I still felt I didn't know the Roky Erickson story. Surprisingly little music. Too much focus on Roky's mom. She was unusual but not interesting enough to carry the movie.

The obvious comparison is to the Daniel Johnston documentary "The Devil and Daniel Johnston" - that is the better movie. The decline into schizophrenia is more visible. Note that I am a BIG Roky fan and only a marginal Daniel Johnston fan.

Despite the review, if the movie is showing along with a performance of Roky Erickson and the Explosives - GO SEE IT! It is very interesting to compare the real Roky with the documentary Roky. Also the backing band ROCKS!!

This is an incredible - and incredibly fu**ed up! - story, beautifully told. I had not heard of Roky Erickson before I saw this film. A friend invited me to a screening without much warning so I had no expectations.

What I discovered was a film that's a tripped out ballad of family dysfunction on a level that is heartbreaking to bear. But it can be really funny too. It's tragic, comic, and mind blowing all at once - and in a weirdly quiet way.

It's the kind of subject matter that could be handled in a way that's glib and wonky. But the filmmakers chose a different route, one that's elegant and thoughtful – be it in the downright hypnotic compositions of the 16mm cinematography (how did they swing that in a documentary?) or the quiet style of the editing (the kind that gives you space to think, to feel) - and it leaves a lasting impression. I saw it over a week ago and keep thinking about these incredible people.

"You're Gonna Miss Me" is troubling, fascinating, captivating and hysterically funny. Do whatever you need to do to see this film; it is a true and singular find.

having seen Roky play at his annual Ice Cream Social at Threadgill's for the last 3 years, I can tell everyone that watches this film that Roky is back and stronger than ever. He kills it live. They had great bands open up the Ice Cream Social each year with the like of Spoon, Secret machines, Minus 5 etc., but something happens when Roky takes the stage. His band is crack and his singing is still killer.

If your ever make it to Austin Texas for South By Southwest, you MUST pay the $30 to and join the fun of the Social. the money goes to Roky's trust fund and the music and people could not be cooler. Kick back on a beautiful day, kick your shoes off and run your toes through the grass and have some free Amy's ice cream.

Then, just as it gets dark, be enchanted by a master of psych rock as Roky kills a 75 set of totally hypnotic and ecstatic music. You will not be sorry.

Cap

"You're Gonna Miss Me" (2005) is almost unbelievable at times. Roky Erickson is a rock 'n' roll legend whose talents persevere despite his tumultuous life. But he's not the only star in this film as his family (especially his mother, Evelyn) display an immense artistic talent themselves.

In fact, this film on Roky is really a family documentary with extended focus on Roky and the matriarch. Roky's life is uncovered with interviews with his family, friends, spouses, and devoted followers. But the reoccurring theme of someone (usually his mother) trying to "save" Roky is the unifying message.

That may not have been the original intention of this film when it started but it certainly ends that way with Roky beginning a new journey towards finding peace. And looking at the years following this film up until his death it looks like he was his most productive and outgoing that he'd been in years.

Roky is a legend who survived not just his demons and legal battles, but also a rare instance of an early 1960's garage musician who still achieved artist success in the 1970's/1980's (though mostly a cult following).

Thank you Roky. You changed those you met and forever altered rock music. If you can find this film, watch it. You won't be disappointed.