This 100%-Rated Documentary About Syd Barret on Prime Video Is a Must-Watch for Pink Floyd Fans
If you've ever wondered about the mysterious figure behind Pink Floyd's early sound, there's a documentary you need to see.
Even if you're not a die-hard Pink Floyd fan, but just a lover of rock history, you're in for a treat. Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd, a documentary available on Prime Video, offers an in-depth exploration of the life, music, and tragic fall of the band's original frontman, Syd Barrett.
For anyone fascinated by the genius and chaos of Pink Floyd, this documentary is a must-see. No wonder it holds a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score: 100% on Tomatometer and a little less impressive 88% from viewers. Released in 2023, the film dives deep into the story of Syd Barrett. And let us say it was as wild and unpredictable as the music he created.
Syd Barrett’s Role in Pink Floyd Isn’t the Only Thing the Documentary Focuses On
As one of the founders of Pink Floyd, he was actually the driving force behind their sound (he was the band's lead guitarist and chief songwriter), shaping their first album called The Piper at the Gates of Dawn. It was Barrett’s signature blend of psychedelia, surreal lyrics and experimental guitar work that helped define the band's early identity.
But as the band's popularity grew, so did Barrett's personal struggles. His battles with mental health and erratic behavior, fueled by drug use, led to his departure from the band shortly after their debut album. And Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd captures it all.
In fact, that is what makes this documentary a real standout. This film gives us a chance to get to know Barrett as a person, not just see him as a legend. It's not just a tribute to his music, but a raw look at the man behind it, including both his brilliance and his eventual downfall. Through interviews with people who knew him best, the documentary gives us a glimpse into his real life.
“Decent amount of interviews with former friends/girlfriends I hadn't seen..as well as some live stuff and especially photos of Syd in the control room with the rest of the band and holding guitar during Wish You Were Here sessions that I hadn't seen... Was definitely worthwhile seeing,” Redditor obscuredbycrowds said.
The film doesn’t sugarcoat Barrett’s struggles. Instead, it shows how his incredible creativity coexisted with the mental health issues that defined much of his later years.
You can stream Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd on Prime Video.
