Worth watching but a bit of a disappointment

Rating: Null/10 (12 February 2000)

"The Doors" is a fine movie. However I found myself disappointed at its finish. Not because it takes liberties with the facts of Jim Morrison's life but because it is some interesting subject matter spread over too long a film. There are certainly moments of greatness (the last scene of Morrison's tomb being a perfect example) but there are also scenes that go on too long and lose much of their effect as a result(the numerous concert scenes). I think another shortcoming was the fact that through too much of the film Oliver Stone generates very little sympathy for Morrison and makes him out to be an uncaring villain. He also fails to establish any interest in the rest of the band or any feeling that they have a personal connection/relationship with Jim. On the other hand the cinematography is great and Stone puts in plenty of Doors music. Also, Val Kilmer turns in a brilliant performance.
* To any Doors fans who saw this movie but want to know more about Morrison and the Doors read Light My Fire by Ray Manzarek