You Think You Really Know Me: The Gary Wilson Story

You Think You Really Know Me: The Gary Wilson Story is a captivating and intimate documentary from 2005 that zooms into the life and career of one of the most enigmatic and distinctive figures in the world of underground music, Gary Wilson. Directed by this careful hand of Michael Wolk who balances both the mystery and the mastery of his subject matter. The film calls upon Gary Wilson himself, as well as prominent figures like Christina Bates and Butch Bottino, who help unfold the mesmerizing journey of Wilson throughout the course of his life.

The film plunges you into the world of Gary Wilson from his early days in the city of Endicott, New York. Wilson’s life always had a riveting amalgamation of the normal and the exceedingly mysterious, just like his music. He was a regular teenage rock prodigy who was overtly fascinated by avant-garde music and experimental jazz. The film’s lens captures these years of Wilson’s life in a poignant way, featuring interviews with his fellow band members who accompanied him through his unusual musical journey.

The filmmaker introduces Wilson's most celebrated work in the 1970s, and then his sudden disappearance from the music scene. 'You Think You Really Know Me' offers in-depth analysis of his unique, profound and often provocative 1977 album, also named ‘You Think You Really Know Me’. Wolk makes sure the viewers get a sense of Wilson's passion for music and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity, despite the challenges associated with that kind of ambitious experimentation in the music industry of his time.

The film then takes an unexpected turn, diving into the mysteriously missing years in Wilson's life, when he suddenly disappeared from public view, leaving his fans and fellow musicians baffled. Viewers may find this part of Wilson's life increasingly mesmerizing, triggering a sense of wanting to know more about what led to Wilson's disappearance and what became of him later.

It then goes on to map Wilson’s surprising resurgence in the late ‘90s with the critical reissue of his album. Here, we delve into the baffling world that Wilson suddenly reappeared from, featuring speckled details of Wilson's invisible years as a salesman whilst he continued to make his oddball music in obscurity.

Wilson’s influence on a whole generation of alternative musicians is one of the core themes of the documentary. A highlight of the film revolves around Wilson’s connection with 'The Roots' frontman Ahmir Thompson aka Questlove, a famous drummer, and DJ, who played a crucial role in Wilson's rediscovery and eventual return to the music world.

What truly stands out and gives life to this film are the up-close and personal interviews with Gary Wilson himself. His authenticity, humility, and eccentricity come alive as he takes you through his life's ups and downs, sharing the rawest and real aspects of his persona. These exclusive and intimate glimpses into Wilson's world are brilliantly complemented by interviews with people who were close to him, as they share their perspective and experiences.

Archival footage, remarkable performances, and fitting music make the movie even more absorbing. They serve as not just a showcase of Wilson’s enigma but also a reflection on the challenging yet rewarding journey of an artist who was far ahead of his time. The performances from Wilson's youth and his resurgence years compel viewers to truly appreciate the depth of his artistry.

The 2005 documentary, 'You Think You Really Know Me: The Gary Wilson Story', is a tribute - a love letter - to Gary Wilson and his unique art form. It is a deep and poignant exploration of an artist who remained dedicated to his creativity despite its deviation from the convention. It is Wilson's personality, the mystery surrounding his career, and the significant impact he has had on the music industry that makes this documentary a must-watch for admirers of unique and experimental music.

No aspect of the film feels imitative. Rather it thrives in its authenticity and reverence for Wilson’s commitment to his individuality. Whether you adore his music, are intrigued by his story, or simply wish to explore an artist’s journey of expressing himself through music, 'You Think You Really Know Me: The Gary Wilson Story' definitely deserves a spot on your watchlist.