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

If anyone has read Einarson's biography of Gene Clark, Mr. Tambourine Man, this movie will tell a familiar tail but what is wonderful is hearing those stories from the musicians and friends that were there when it all went down. David Crosby, who is not known for humility, seems in awe of Clark at times and The Byrds in their original lineup. McGuinn is matter-of-fact but Hillman seems like the warmest of the bunch, the only Byrd who also smiles and laughs in his segments. This also reminded me of Be Here to Love Me, the wonderful film about Townes Van Zandt, in that is does not deify its subject but rather portrays them for the talented but trouble person that they are; the talent is celebrated but you feel the pain that they caused their family, friends and band mates. Enough detail for the casual Clark or Byrds fan, but an abundance of clips and audio to satisfy the die-hards. Well done indeed.

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.

This an excellent documentary, featuring members of Gene's family, friends as well as ex band members. It is thoughtfully presented and gives a good insight into Gene, the man, and what was happening in his life while we were listening to his beautiful, emotional music. A very fitting tribute to a mesmeric man, both on stage and off. I really recommend buying this documentary, it is a compassionate journey through Gene's life. I have watched it many times since I bought it and will do so many more times! The production, as well as the direction, is first-rate. Four Suns deserve plenty of praise for this work and I, for one hope they will give us more! Anything else in the pipeline?

The Producer,Paul Kendall set out with one goal.To honor Gene Clark,not only as the man he was but in hope to introduced a talent all but relegated to a simple foot note in the annals of the most creative "Singer,Song Writer,Boom" of the last 50 years. Kendall and "Four Son Productions" deftly and clearly,via exclusive interviews with former Bandmates,Managers,Producers,Record Industry Moguls,family and friends reveal the true Gene Clark with answers carefully designed to protect one's own self interest. Years in the making,untold interviews,headaches and personal monies spent,all due to the love Gene gave freely to everyone he met.A story I know personally and heard repeated time and again and the driving force behind this documentary.Yet more than that.Tiz a beautiful treat for the eyes,up lifting and informative featuring a cast of legendary writers,singers and players such as David Crosby,Chris Hillman,Roger McGuiin and many others.This is one DVD you will want to revisit time and again,and soon I promise you will be searching for all the Gene Clark songs you can lay you're ears on… Trace Harrill

"The Byrd Who Flew Alone" is a labor of love and dedication from Four Suns Productions. It has high production values and great pacing and focus. In addition to the excellence of the film itself, the added features provide even more knowledge and enjoyment.

This movie about Gene Clark is an honest assessment of the triumphs and tragedies of his life. For long-standing fans, it offers intimate details of who Gene was as a human being and as an artist, told by those who knew him and were there as it happened. For those unaware of how important Gene Clark was and is, this movie provides an excellent introduction to a singular talent who deserves to be heard and enjoyed for the richness of his abilities as a songwriter, singer and musician.

Anyone who wants to know more about Gene Clark and his music will be satisfied with what they learn in this film and will come away understanding more about the depth of Gene's music and his life than they can imagine. Highly recommended!