The Reel DMC Movie Podcast

The Doors (1991) Jim Morrison Bio or Oliver Stone’s Acid-Fueled Fantasy?

Reel DMC

In this episode, Dave, Marcus, and Colin dive into Oliver Stone's The Doors, and their verdict is a wild ride of praise, critique, and disbelief. The consensus? Val Kilmer absolutely nails the role of Jim Morrison. His performance is nothing short of electric—his singing, his stage presence, the whole package. But here's the rub: his portrayal of Morrison is so one-dimensional that at times, he feels more like a drunken jerk than the rock legend we all know and love. In fact, the guys agree that after five minutes with this version of Jim, you'd probably want to punch him in the face. 

While the iconic concert scenes are a highlight, the film falters in a big way by sidelining the rest of the band. Stone's version of The Doors doesn't do them any favors, turning them into mere shadows of Morrison's chaotic genius. And don't even get started on Oliver Stone’s "creative choices"—a.k.a. making up ridiculous sequences like Jim attempting to murder his girlfriend, Pamela Courson. 

The episode kicks off with the trio reflecting on what The Doors' music has meant to them over the years. They all agree: while it might’ve been tempting to hang with Morrison in your twenties, the movie probably hits harder for a younger crowd. 

So, put on your headphones, grab a drink, head into the desert, and try not to get too lost in the madness. Just remember, everyone here makes it out alive—barely.