We close on a disclaimer that jokingly reads, “No musicians were harmed during the making of this film.” While it’s true that no member of this elite corps of unsung studio pros known as the Wrecking Crew ever went broke performing backup on thousands of recognizable pop tunes from the ‘60s and ‘70s, there’s much to be said for an artist helping to deliver a million-seller and failing to receive so much as a cursory mention in the liner notes. Nearly two decades have passed since director Denny Tedesco set about righting the wrong. For years, this staggering lesson in uncharted music history was destined to be the best documentary about the music industry that no one had ever seen. What began as a loving tribute to a father from his son wound up a historical document. A favorite on the film festival circuit (and locally at the Cinema Society of San Diego), thanks to Magnolia Pictures, the film is finally set to reach a wider audience. You’re not likely to have a better time at the movies all year. (2008) — Scott Marks
This movie is not currently in theaters.