'The Doors': A Sprawling and Exhilarating Chronicle of the Meteoric Rise of Jim Morrison and The Doors

The Doors (1991) is a sprawling biographical drama that explores the life of Jim Morrison (Val Kilmer), the enigmatic frontman of the legendary rock band The Doors. The film traces the band's meteoric rise to fame while diving deep into Morrison’s complex inner world—his artistic drive, self-destructive impulses, and obsession with altered states of consciousness.

The story begins in 1965, as Morrison arrives in California to study film at UCLA. He quickly immerses himself in the bohemian culture of Venice Beach, forming key relationships that shape his future. He connects with fellow student Pamela Courson (Meg Ryan), who becomes his longtime partner, and meets Ray Manzarek (Kyle MacLachlan), a kindred spirit who shares his musical vision. Together, they form a band inspired in part by Aldous Huxley’s The Doors of Perception. With guitarist Robby Krieger (Frank Whaley) and drummer John Densmore (Kevin Dillon) joining the lineup, the band begins playing at the iconic "Whisky a Go Go", where their electrifying performances attract a passionate following. The storyline follows the band through their whirlwind of newfound success, capturing the turbulence of their creative journey as they navigate fame, controversy and the unraveling of Morrison’s psyche—all against the backdrop of a rapidly changing cultural landscape.

Co-written and directed by Oliver Stone (Platoon, Wall Street), The Doors is an eye-opening recapitulation of a fervid chapter in music history, highlighted by Kilmer's extraordinary portrayal of the charismatic and often inscrutable Morrison. Stone and cinematographer Robert Richardson create a visually dynamic landscape, employing psychedelic imagery and frenetic montage to convey the altered perceptions of its characters. Eschewing traditional biopic material, Stone delivers an impressionistic portrait of a rock icon that captures the essence of Morrison's artistic soul and turbulent descent.

---

Watch the trailer: