If the writers don't have the freedom to represent (as opposed to exploit) Dennis's life as it was (including the Manson connection, the drinking and drugs, etc) then the film company should abandon the project. What would be the point if the story ignores some serious, admittedly uncomfortable truths?

It doesn't sound like they're editing Dennis to make him look better, per se. I think they are just focusing on a part of his life that is less famous than the whole Manson Family chapter, which is pretty well known. That being said, I don't know how they can focus on the last several years of his life and avoid his addiction/substance abuse issues, either. That's why the man's relationships all unravelled, and why he died at such an early age. :shrug:

Understandable. But remember - Lindsey is a huge Beach Boys/Brian Wilson fan, as I am. Many people unaware that their body work is much deeper than the popular "beach songs." They are much more than that.