Must-See Documentaries About The Doors and Jim Morrison
Essential Viewing for Music Fans
For fans of classic rock and those intrigued by the enigmatic charisma of Jim Morrison, documentaries about The Doors offer a fascinating window into the band's revolutionary impact and Morrison's multifaceted persona. These films often delve into the music, poetry, and personal life of Morrison, painting a comprehensive portrait of the man behind the iconic voice.
Whether you're new to The Doors or a longtime aficionado, these must-see documentaries provide valuable insights into one of rock history's most influential bands. Through interviews, rare footage, and intimate stories from those who knew them best, these films capture the essence of The Doors' enduring legacy and Morrison's complex character.
1) The Doors: When You're Strange (2009)
Narrated by Johnny Depp, "The Doors: When You're Strange" offers a compelling look at the iconic rock band, The Doors. Directed by Tom DiCillo, the documentary covers the band's history from its formation in 1965 to Jim Morrison's untimely death in 1971.
The film features rare, unseen footage of the band, providing an intimate look at its members – Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore.
A key highlight is its focus on Morrison's tumultuous life, including his battle with alcohol and drugs. The documentary captures the essence of the band's meteoric rise and the tragic decline of its charismatic frontman.
For more information, visit IMDb.
2) Jim Morrison: The Heavy Lizard King
Jim Morrison, the legendary frontman of The Doors, earned the nickname "The Lizard King" due to his psychedelic and often surreal persona.
One significant influence was his 1970 poem "Celebration of the Lizard," which inspired the nickname.
Morrison's intense and enigmatic stage presence contributed significantly to his mythos. He often pushed boundaries, both musically and personally.
Known for his deep voice and poetic lyrics, Morrison's performances were hypnotic and unpredictable.
His larger-than-life character frequently clashed with societal norms, making him a controversial figure.
Documentaries like "When You're Strange" (2009) IMDb and "The Doors: The Final Cut" (1991) IMDb provide a glimpse into his complex personality.
Through these films, viewers get a window into Morrison's creative process and tumultuous life. His legacy as "The Lizard King" remains integral to his story.
These portrayals highlight both his groundbreaking contributions to music and the struggles he faced.
Jim Morrison's legacy continues to captivate new generations, ensuring his status as a rock legend endures.
3) The Doors: Mr. Mojo Risin' - The Story of L.A. Woman (2012)
This documentary delves into the making of "L.A. Woman," the final album by The Doors with Jim Morrison.
Directed by Martin R. Smith, it features new interviews with the three surviving members of the band.
The film explores how the album came to be, its recording process, and the context in which the band was operating at the time.
Through conversations with key figures like Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore, viewers gain insights into the dynamics of the band during this period.
The documentary also covers the influence of the phrase "Mr. Mojo Risin'," which is an anagram of Jim Morrison's name, on the album's title track.
It provides a detailed account of how this pivotal piece of their discography emerged, capturing the intensity and creativity that defined The Doors.
For more details, you can visit the IMDb page.
4) Feast of Friends (1969)
"Feast of Friends" is a documentary that offers a raw and unfiltered look into the world of The Doors. Filmed between April and September 1968, this project was spearheaded by Paul Ferrara, the band's official photographer and a close friend of Jim Morrison and Ray Manzarek from their UCLA days.
This film captures concert performances, behind-the-scenes moments, and candid conversations between band members. It's notable for its intimate portrayal of the band, showcasing their dynamic as they perform and interact offstage. The authenticity and spontaneity of the footage give viewers a unique perspective on the band’s chemistry and creativity.
The title "Feast of Friends" is derived from a poem by Jim Morrison, which underscores the personal touch the band members had in this project. Unlike many other music documentaries, it is directly produced by the Doors, adding an additional layer of authenticity.
The documentary runs for approximately 40 minutes and includes a live performance of "The End," capturing one of the band’s most intense and memorable renditions. For those interested in rock history and the cultural impact of The Doors, this film is essential viewing.
For more information, visit Wikipedia.
5) No One Here Gets Out Alive: The Doors' Tribute to Jim Morrison (1981)
This documentary focuses on Jim Morrison, the enigmatic lead singer of The Doors. Directed by Gordon Forbes III, it delves into the life and legacy of Morrison.
Released a decade after Morrison's untimely death, the film features interviews with the surviving members of The Doors. They share insights into Morrison's unique vision and his impact on rock and roll.
The documentary explores Morrison's interests in literature, cinema, and psychology. It highlights how these influenced his music and stage persona.
In addition to interviews, the film includes clips of the band performing. These performances showcase The Doors' musical prowess and Morrison's magnetic stage presence.
Fans of both The Doors and rock documentaries will find this film compelling. It provides a deeper understanding of the legendary frontman's life and his contributions to music.
For more information, visit the Wikipedia page.
6) The Doors Are Open (1968)
"The Doors Are Open" is a black-and-white documentary centered on the American rock band, The Doors. This film provides a captivating look at the band during their peak, featuring live performances at London's Roundhouse venue.
Produced for Granada TV by Jo Durden-Smith, the documentary first aired in the United Kingdom on October 4, 1968. Directed by John Sheppard, it combines concert footage with interviews of band members, offering a unique glimpse into their thoughts and experiences.
The film also integrates contemporary news snippets, giving viewers context about the world during that time. This blend of music and documentary style presents The Doors not just as musicians, but as cultural icons.
For more information on "The Doors Are Open," visit the Wikipedia page.
7) The Soft Parade (1991)
"The Soft Parade" is a documentary that offers a comprehensive look at the legendary 1960s band, The Doors, and their iconic lead singer, Jim Morrison. Made in 1991, it combines concert footage, behind-the-scenes moments, and interviews to provide a thorough insight into the band's dynamics and Morrison's enigmatic persona.
The film includes the last televised performance of The Doors, which adds a historical significance to the documentary. Portions of an interview with the band by Richard Goldstein of the Village Voice are also interwoven, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the band members' perspectives.
Key highlights are the interviews with Jim Morrison. His thought-provoking reflections on music and poetry give invaluable context to The Doors' artistic journey.
"The Soft Parade" is particularly noteworthy for its focus on the eponymous album. It showcases some of the experimental phases of The Doors, marking a departure from their earlier styles.
For more details, visit IMDb.
8) When You're Strange (2009)
When You're Strange, released in 2009, is a comprehensive documentary about the American rock band The Doors.
Directed by Tom DiCillo and narrated by Johnny Depp, the film provides an in-depth look at the band's journey from its formation in 1965 to the release of its debut album and subsequent records.
The documentary delves into the impact of the band's enigmatic lead singer, Jim Morrison, whose struggle with alcohol and drugs led to his untimely death at age 27.
One notable feature is the inclusion of entirely unseen archival footage, which offers a fresh perspective on the band’s dynamic and Morrison's complex personality.
Depp's narration emphasizes Morrison’s influence on The Doors' music and the cultural landscape of the 1960s and early 1970s.
Critics have pointed out that the film sometimes portrays Morrison's excesses more positively. Nevertheless, it remains a valuable resource for fans and historians alike.
Viewers can gain deeper insights into The Doors' meteoric rise to fame and the challenges they faced along the way.
9) The Doors - Live at the Hollywood Bowl (1987)
"The Doors - Live at the Hollywood Bowl" captures the iconic rock band performing at the Hollywood Bowl on July 5, 1968.
This film features Jim Morrison, Robby Krieger, Ray Manzarek, and John Densmore delivering one of their most memorable live performances.
The 1987 release includes 14 songs, showcasing the band's raw energy and stage presence.
Originally released in May 1987, this documentary serves as an essential historical record for fans of The Doors.
The film not only highlights their musical prowess but also provides a glimpse into the cultural atmosphere of the late 1960s.
Watch this concert documentary to experience The Doors at their peak, bringing rock and poetry together in a legendary performance.
For more information, visit the IMDb page.
10) Riders on the Storm: The Doors and Jim Morrison
"Riders on the Storm" delves into the intricate relationship between Jim Morrison and The Doors. This documentary examines the creation of their iconic song, providing in-depth interviews with the band members.
The film explores the evolution of "Riders on the Storm," from its conception to its recording.
The song's origins are tied to Jim Morrison's experiences and his poetic insights into the tumultuous reality he inhabited.
Filmmakers capture the raw emotion and artistic brilliance that defined The Doors and Morrison.
Released in 2020, this documentary is a must-watch for fans and music historians alike.
The Cultural Impact of The Doors and Jim Morrison
The Doors and Jim Morrison significantly influenced the counterculture movement of the 1960s and '70s, leaving a profound imprint on both music and literature. They became icons of the psychedelic era, and Morrison’s work as a poet added a unique depth to their music.
Psychedelic Era Influence
The Doors emerged at the height of the psychedelic era, a time characterized by its experimentation with music, art, and sociopolitical views. They quickly became emblematic of this movement. Their music, filled with improvisation and the use of unconventional sounds, reflected the mind-altering experiences associated with psychedelics.
Albums like "The Doors" and "Strange Days" encapsulated themes of existentialism.
Their live performances, often intense and unpredictable, further solidified their standing as psychedelic pioneers. Jim Morrison, known for his erratic stage presence, embodied the rebellious spirit of the era. He challenged norms and pushed boundaries, becoming a symbol of youthful defiance and freedom.
Music and Poetry
Jim Morrison’s dual role as a musician and poet differentiated The Doors from other bands. His lyrics, rich in symbolism and imagery, fused rock music with poetic literature. Songs like "The End" and "Riders on the Storm" showcased Morrison's ability to weave complex narratives and existential themes into rock music.
Morrison’s poetic works were influenced by great literary figures such as Rimbaud and Blake.
His collections, such as "The Lords and the New Creatures," reveal his contemplative nature and intellectual depth. This melding of music and poetry attracted a diverse audience, including literary enthusiasts, further broadening their cultural impact. His contributions went beyond mere lyrics, influencing how rock music could serve as a vehicle for profound artistic expression.
Exploring Jim Morrison's Life
Jim Morrison is an enigmatic figure known for his multifaceted talents in music, poetry, and filmmaking. His journey from a young man to the iconic frontman of The Doors is storied and significant.
Early Years and Formation of The Doors
Jim Morrison was born in Melbourne, Florida, in 1943. Raised in a military family, he traveled frequently, fostering an early interest in literature and poetry. He later attended UCLA, where he met Ray Manzarek. Their shared passion for music led them to form The Doors in 1965. The band quickly became known for their powerful sound and Morrison's charismatic stage presence.
Morrison's unique voice and poetic lyrics were integral to the band's success. Albums like "The Doors" and "Strange Days" defined their place in rock history.
Iconic Performances and Tours
Jim Morrison's stage performances were legendary. His intense and unpredictable stage presence captivated audiences worldwide. The Doors' concerts often turned into theatrical events, with Morrison's antics contributing to a sense of unpredictability and raw energy.
The band's tours across the United States and Europe solidified their reputation. Notable performances include the 1967 Newport Pop Festival and the infamous Miami concert in 1969, where Morrison faced obscenity charges. These events only added to the mythos surrounding his persona.
Influence of Literature and Mythology
Literature and mythology profoundly influenced Jim Morrison. He studied the works of poets like William Blake, Arthur Rimbaud, and Allen Ginsberg. Morrison's lyrics were rich with references to these literary giants, enhancing the depth of The Doors' music.
Mythological and philosophical themes also permeated his work. His fascination with ancient Greek mythology and shamanism shaped his onstage persona and songwriting. These influences combined to create a body of work that was both intellectually stimulating and emotionally charged.
Morrison's poetic approach made The Doors' songs more than just music; they became a form of storytelling.
