Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd

The documentary “Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd” is a must-see rockumentary that plunges into the life and brilliance of Syd Barrett, the legendary creative force behind Pink Floyd. This film offers an in-depth exploration of Barrett’s extraordinary genius, his impact on the music world, and the enduring legacy he left behind.

Pioneers of prog rock and British psychedelia, Pink Floyd carved out a colossal legacy in music and cultural history. Syd, who christened the band by merging the names of two obscure bluesmen—Pink Anderson and Floyd Council—was instrumental in sparking their revolutionary journey. Though he left the band before they reached the zenith of fame, his influence and genius set the stage for their monumental impact.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Roddy Bogawa and the late, legendary album cover designer Storm Thorgerson (known for his iconic work with Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Paul McCartney, and Black Sabbath), and produced by Orian Williams (England Is Mine, Creation Stories, Control), this feature-length documentary has been praised for its raw and candid look into the vibrant life and artistry of Syd Barrett, the visionary founder of Pink Floyd.

Intimate interviews with band members David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Roger Waters reveal Barrett’s lasting influence on Pink Floyd. The film also features an interview with Syd’s sister, Rosemary Breen, adding a personal touch. Narrated by actor Jason Isaacs, it includes insights from original band managers Peter Jenner and Andrew King, as well as The Who’s Pete Townshend and Blur’s Graham Coxon.

Beyond the full-length documentary, the DVD+Blu-ray set offers bonus features, including two poignant live performances of “Arnold Layne.” The first performance features David Gilmour and David Bowie, originally released in Gilmour’s Remember That Night Live At The Royal Albert Hall, 2007. The second is a performance from 2007’s The Madcap’s Last Laugh – a tribute concert for Syd Barrett featuring David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Richard Wright in their final performance as Pink Floyd.

Was Syd Barrett simply another casualty of the drug era? Did he grapple with an undiagnosed mental condition? Or did he retreat from the spotlight as the joy of creation turned into the grind of work? While definitive answers remain elusive, those close to Syd felt that something went awry. “Have You Got It Yet?” chronicles Barrett’s journey, weaving together his creative brilliance and destructive tendencies. This documentary delves deep into the enigma of Syd’s life, capturing the essence of his genius and the shadows that surrounded him. Through intimate interviews and rare footage, it explores the complex interplay of his creativity and his struggles, painting a vivid portrait of a man who was both a visionary artist and a troubled soul.