The Best Documentaries About The Monkees
A Deep Dive into the Iconic Band
The Monkees, originally an American rock and pop band formed in the 1960s, have a unique place in music history. Created for a television show, they quickly transcended their origins to become one of the most successful bands of their era, outselling even The Beatles and Elvis at their peak.
There is a wealth of documentaries that delve into various aspects of The Monkees' journey, from their television beginnings to their musical successes and the individual stories of band members. These documentaries offer valuable insights into how The Monkees navigated the complexities of fame and the music industry, making them essential viewing for fans and music history enthusiasts alike.
1) Headquarters! (2000)
"Headquarters!" is an insightful documentary that sheds light on The Monkees' third studio album, "Headquarters," released in 1967. This film delves into the creation of the album, highlighting the band's transition to more substantial songwriting and instrumental contributions.
The documentary explores how the members—Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Michael Nesmith—strived to control their musical direction. It showcases their effort to break free from the industry's standard practices, opting instead to play their own instruments and write their own songs.
In particular, the film emphasizes the country-rock influence brought by Nesmith's tracks like "You Told Me," "You Just May Be the One," and "Sunny Girlfriend." It also highlights the unique blend of pop and rock that defines the album, including the playful elements in songs such as "Zilch" and "Band 6."
The documentary helps fans and new listeners alike understand the significance of the "Headquarters" album in The Monkees' career, illustrating how it was a pivotal moment for the band's artistic autonomy. It serves as an educational yet entertaining look into a critical phase of their musical journey.
For more details, visit IMDb (2000).
2) Daydream Believers (2000)
"Daydream Believers: The Monkees' Story" is a biographical drama television film. It was directed by Neill Fearnley and written by Ron McGee. The film is based on the 1996 book "Hey, Hey, We're the Monkees" by Harold Bronson.
The movie stars George Stanchev as Davy Jones, L. B. Fisher as Peter Tork, Jeff Geddis as Michael Nesmith, and Aaron Lohr as Micky Dolenz.
The film offers a detailed look at the creation of The Monkees, often referred to as the "Pre-Fab Four."
The movie explores the band's struggles to be taken seriously as musicians and their efforts to gain artistic control over their music. It also highlights the impact of their TV show on their success and popularity.
"Daydream Believers" incorporates significant events from the band’s career, including the release of hits like "Last Train to Clarksville" and "I'm a Believer."
This TV movie provides an engaging portrayal of the band's journey from a manufactured group to successful musicians.
For more information, visit IMDb or Wikipedia.
3) The Monkees in Paris (1968)
"The Monkees in Paris" is a unique episode from the popular TV series "The Monkees." It was directed by Bob Rafelson and first aired in 1968. This episode stands out because the band takes a spontaneous holiday in Paris, shaking up their usual scripted adventures.
Tired of repetitive storylines, the band members decide to explore the French capital. This decision leaves their director, James Frawley, scrambling to adjust the show’s formula. The episode provides an opportunity to see the Monkees in a different setting, away from the usual studio sets.
Paris serves as a picturesque background, offering viewers a glimpse of the city’s charm through the antics of Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork. This departure from the usual format was refreshing and added a unique twist to the series.
"The Monkees in Paris" also reflects the show’s flexibility and willingness to experiment with new ideas. This episode remains a memorable part of the Monkees’ legacy due to its departure from the norm and the beautiful Parisian backdrop.
For more information, visit IMDb's page on "The Monkees in Paris".
4) Hey, Hey, We’re The Monkees (1997)
"Hey, Hey, We’re The Monkees" is a compelling documentary directed by Alan Boyd.
It spotlights the creation and evolution of The Monkees, the pop group formed for a 1960s TV sitcom. This documentary provides a detailed look at the band through interviews with its members—Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Micky Dolenz.
The filmmakers also speak with the show’s creators and key musical collaborators.
The film covers the band’s rise to fame, their music, and the cultural impact they had during their initial run and subsequent reunions.
Die-hard fans and new viewers alike can gain a deeper appreciation for The Monkees' unique place in rock and television history.
5) The Monkees: The Day-by-Day Story (2021)
"The Monkees: The Day-by-Day Story" is a comprehensive look at the journey of the Monkees, spanning from 1965 to 1970.
The documentary provides a detailed timeline of significant events in the band's history. It covers everything from recording sessions to filming schedules and public appearances.
Fans of the Monkees will find an in-depth exploration of the band's career trajectory. The documentary also delves into the Monkees' television series, which began in 1966 and led to a series of hits and chart-topping albums.
This documentary, written by Andrew Sandoval, is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the impact and evolution of one of the 1960s' most successful pop bands.
Find out more on IMDb.
6) Pleasant Valley Sunday: The Monkees and the Boys in the Band
Released in 1967, "Pleasant Valley Sunday" is a song by The Monkees that became a significant hit. Written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, the track highlights the band's unique blend of pop and rock.
The song was inspired by the writers’ experience living in the suburbs of New Jersey. It critiques the monotonous and superficial lifestyle associated with suburban life.
The recording process for "Pleasant Valley Sunday" involved the band's members and showcased their evolving sound. It differed from the original demo by Goffin and King, featuring richer instrumentation and production.
"Pleasant Valley Sunday" became emblematic of The Monkees' ability to convey complex themes through accessible music. This documentary dives into the behind-the-scenes aspects of its creation and its cultural impact.
For those interested in a deeper understanding of this influential song and its context within The Monkees’ career, this documentary offers valuable insights.
7) The Monkees Live Summer Tour (2002)
"The Monkees Live Summer Tour" captures the essence of the band's live performances during their 2001 tour. This documentary highlights Mickey Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Peter Tork on stage, 35 years after their formation. Despite the absence of Michael Nesmith, the remaining members deliver an energetic and heartfelt performance.
The DVD and CD of this tour provide both visual and audio experiences. The quality of the video and sound has been praised for being comparable to modern standards. Fans appreciate the chance to see The Monkees perform their classic hits like "Daydream Believer" and "I'm a Believer" live.
Produced by David Fishof, some fans feel mixed emotions. While the performance is engaging, some believe the production could have been better. Nonetheless, it remains a treasured piece for Monkees enthusiasts. It gives a glimpse into their enduring popularity and dedication to their craft.
For more details, check out the IMDB page.
8) Listen to the Band: The Monkees (1969)
"Listen to the Band: The Monkees" is a captivating documentary about the iconic American pop rock band, The Monkees. Released in 1969, this film dives into their journey through the music industry.
The documentary offers a glimpse into the creation and success of "Listen to the Band," a single written by Michael Nesmith. It marks the first time Nesmith sang lead vocals on an A-side Monkees single.
Viewers get to see behind-the-scenes footage and insights into the band's dynamics. The film also touches on the contributions of session musicians like Billy Sanford on guitar and Bobby Thompson on banjo.
Providing more context, the documentary covers the cultural impact of The Monkees during the 60s. It showcases their transition from a television band to a successful musical group with a distinct sound.
This film is essential for fans interested in the history of The Monkees and their influence on pop music.
For more information, visit the Wikipedia page.
9) The Monkees: Missing Links (1987)
"The Monkees: Missing Links" is a compilation album featuring rare and previously unreleased tracks by the American pop rock band, The Monkees. Released by Rhino Records in 1987, it offers fans a unique insight into the band's musical evolution over the years.
The album contains songs that were not included in their original albums but are significant to their history. Some tracks were featured in the Monkees' television series, providing additional context for their visual and musical journey.
This compilation stands out for including tracks like "Apples, Peaches, Bananas and Pears," which appeared in reruns of their TV show. It bridges the gap between released and unreleased material, showcasing the breadth of the Monkees' talent.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Wikipedia page on Missing Links.
10) The Monkees: Let’s Go Again (2018)
"The Monkees: Let’s Go Again" offers an in-depth look at the band's later career and their efforts to stay relevant in the music industry. The documentary examines the resurgence of The Monkees in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Viewers are taken behind the scenes to explore the dynamics between band members Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, Michael Nesmith, and the legacy of Davy Jones.
Interviews with the band members provide personal insights into their experiences during this period. They discuss the challenges and opportunities they faced as they navigated reunion tours and new projects.
Footage from live performances and recording sessions offers a glimpse into the creative process. The film captures the energy and passion that continued to drive The Monkees.
This documentary is essential for understanding the evolution of The Monkees beyond their 1960s fame. For more information, visit IMDb.
Historical Context
The Monkees were a groundbreaking band both in the formation of their musical group and in their influence on popular culture. Their creation and subsequent impact paved the way for future television-based musical acts.
The Formation of The Monkees
The Monkees were formed in 1965 for a television series of the same name. American producers Bob Rafelson and Bert Schneider created the show, inspired by The Beatles' film "A Hard Day's Night."
Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork were cast after a rigorous audition process.
Despite being initially dismissed as a manufactured band, The Monkees quickly proved their musical talents. They gained creative control over their music and recordings, which helped them achieve credibility and respect within the music industry. Their self-titled debut album topped the charts in 1966, further solidifying their success.
Impact on Popular Culture
The Monkees had a significant impact on popular culture during the 1960s and beyond. Their TV show combined slapstick comedy with musical performances, blending the appeal of a sitcom with a rock band.
This innovative format influenced future media, including the creation of music videos.
Monkeemania swept the nation, with fans captivated by their catchy songs and charismatic personas. The band's influence extended to fashion trends, youth culture, and even future music television programming such as MTV.
Their hits like "Last Train to Clarksville," "I'm a Believer," and "Daydream Believer" remain iconic, showcasing their enduring legacy in pop music.
Significant Themes in Documentaries
Documentaries about The Monkees often explore key themes such as their musical evolution and behind-the-scenes stories, unraveling the layers of their journey and personal dynamics.
Musical Evolution
The Monkees' journey through the music industry is a dynamic one. From their inception as a manufactured band for a television show to becoming genuine musical artists, their evolution is a central theme. Early hits like "Last Train to Clarksville" reflected the pop-rock sound that initially defined them.
As they gained creative control, their sound matured, evidenced in albums like Headquarters and Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd.. Their music transitioned from bubblegum pop to a more nuanced and experimental combination of rock, folk, and psychedelic influences.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
The behind-the-scenes narratives offer a deeper look into the band's internal and external challenges. Interpersonal dynamics among Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones often reveal tensions and camaraderie.
Moreover, the business side shows how they navigated the complexities of being a band created for television. Conflicts over creative control, production decisions, and their struggle for artistic authenticity highlight the pressures they faced.
These themes provide a complete picture of The Monkees, framing their public success against their private battles.
