About the song
“The Movie” is a deeply introspective and poetic track by Jim Morrison, the enigmatic frontman of the legendary rock band The Doors. Released in 1971 on the album “Other Voices,” “The Movie” is one of the songs from the band’s first album after Morrison’s departure. Following his death in 1971, the remaining members of The Doors — Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore — continued to record under the band’s name, with Manzarek taking over vocal duties. While the album didn’t receive the same level of critical acclaim as previous Doors releases, “The Movie” remains a standout track for its raw, introspective lyricism, and Morrison’s unique vision of life as a cinematic experience.
The song itself is a reflection of Morrison’s fascination with film and the nature of reality. In “The Movie,” he delves into the idea that life can sometimes feel like a dream or a movie—where moments are fleeting, and reality is ever-changing. The lyrics express the desire to transcend ordinary life, exploring themes of identity, escapism, and self-doubt. Morrison uses the metaphor of a film to comment on the performative aspects of existence, questioning the authenticity of human experience and the role of an individual within the larger narrative of life.
“The Movie” holds significant cultural meaning as it captures the existential and often surreal nature of Morrison’s songwriting. As a reflection on his own journey and the themes of alienation, creativity, and the search for meaning, the track aligns with many of the themes Morrison explored throughout his career. As with much of his work, it touches on the complex intersection of the human psyche, the desire for freedom, and the acknowledgment of life’s impermanence. The song’s eerie, haunting atmosphere reflects Morrison’s interest in the mystical and the unknown, which resonated deeply with the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s.
While “The Movie” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as other tracks by The Doors, it nonetheless holds a special place in the hearts of fans. The song’s introspective and philosophical qualities continue to resonate with listeners who appreciate Morrison’s poetic insight into the human condition. In terms of social impact, it is a reminder of the deeper, more reflective side of rock music—something that Morrison was known for, particularly through his lyrics, which pushed boundaries and challenged conventional thinking. For fans of The Doors and Jim Morrison, “The Movie” stands as a testament to the artist’s unique ability to blend surrealism, spirituality, and social commentary in a single, evocative track.
Video
Lyrics
The movie will begin in five momentsThe mindless voice announcedAll those unseated will await the next showWe filed slowly, languidly into the hallThe auditorium was vast and silentAs we seated and were darkened, the voice continuedThe program for this evening is not newYou’ve seen this entertainment through and throughYou’ve seen your birth your life and deathYou might recall all of the restDid you have a good world when you died?Enough to base a movie on?I’m getting out of here(Where are you going?)To the other side of morning(Please don’t chase the clouds, pagodas)Her cunt gripped him like a warm, friendly handIt’s alright, all your friends are here(When can I meet them?)After you’ve eaten(I’m not hungry)Uh, we meant beatenSilver stream, silvery screamOoh, impossible concentration