When You're Strange (2010)

When You're Strange Poster

The creative chemistry of four brilliant artists —drummer John Densmore, guitarist Robby Kreiger, keyboardist Ray Manzarek and singer Jim Morrison— made The Doors one of America's most iconic and influential rock bands. Using footage shot between their formation in 1965 and Morrison's death in 1971, it follows the band from the corridors of UCLA's film school, where Manzarek and Morrison met, to the stages of sold-out arenas.

Summary
"When You're Unusual: A Film About The Doors" is a 2010 documentary about The Doors-- a renowned American rock band from the 1960s. The movie, directed by Tom DiCillo and narrated by Johnny Depp, dives deep into the history of the band, supplying viewers with a within look into their increase to popularity, their impact in the 60s popular culture, and their eventual disintegration.

Storyline
Divided into different areas depicting significant pieces of the band's journey, the movie commences with sections taken from Jim Morrison's 1969 film "HWY: An American Pastoral". This part is led by Depp's narrative and then shifts into The Doors' development process, where Morrison (the band's frontman) and Ray Manzarek unite at UCLA film school and produce the band.

The Rise
The movie file's the band's rise to fame began with their sneak previews at the notorious Whisky a Go Go, resulting in their breakthrough single "Light My Fire". This rise is marked by the intense innovative partnerships in between the band members, Morrison's vivid lyricism, and their collective dedication to pressing borders.

Controversies and Struggles
The movie is unflinching in its portrayal of The Doors' battles. It goes into details about Jim Morrison's concerns with compound misuse, his troubled relationship with fame, his deteriorating mental and physical health, and his tragically sudden death. DiCillo spotlights the 1969 Miami concert - when Morrison was apprehended for apparently exposing himself on phase, which becomes the driver for the beginning of the band's downfall.

Band Dynamics and Influence
Stabilizing the Morrison-centric story, the film also checks out the relationship dynamics within the band. Band members Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore are given their fees as crucial artists. The film manifests their cumulative impact on popular culture, music, and fashion genres-- represented by countless young fans more aligned with The Doors' rebellious principles than the love-and-peace mantra of the '60s.

Morrison's Death and Aftermath
When You're Strange concludes with Morrison's tragic and mysterious death in Paris at only 27 years of age. It depicts the shock of his bandmates along with their choice to dissolve quickly after. However the movie ends on a poignant note, underscoring the enduring tradition of The Doors' mesmerizing music and their immortal location in the record of rock history.

Critical Reception
The documentary won beneficial crucial gratitude for its archival video and honest representation. It was also acknowledged at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. When You're Strange is an engrossing exploration of an iconic group that still mesmerizes fans with its timeless music and the charismatic and difficult image of its frontman, Jim Morrison.

Top Cast

  • Johnny Depp (small)
    Johnny Depp
    Narrator (voice)
  • Jim Morrison (small)
    Jim Morrison
    Self (archive footage)
  • John Densmore (small)
    John Densmore
    Self (archive footage)
  • Ray Manzarek (small)
    Ray Manzarek
    Self (archive footage)
  • Robby Krieger (small)
    Robby Krieger
    Self (archive footage)
  • Jim Ladd
    Self (voice)