The Doors - Mr. Mojo Risin': The Story of L.A. Woman

The Doors - Mr. Mojo Risin': The Story of L.A. Woman is a compelling blend of music, history, and cinematic insight that revolves around the behind-the-scenes journey of The Doors' iconic album, L.A. Woman. Released in 2011 under the mantle of Eagle Rock Entertainment and directed by Martin R. Smith, this documentary film serves as an intimate exploration into the world and work of the quartet, one of the most charismatic, controversial, and influential bands of the '60s counterculture.

The Doors, an American rock band formed in 1965, was comprised of vocalist Jim Morrison, guitarist Robby Krieger, keyboardist Ray Manzarek, and drummer John Densmore. Their music was a fusion of rock, blues, and psychedelic which had a transformative effect on contemporary music and popular culture. Their final album, L.A. Woman, holds a distinct place within The Doors' discography - and their story, as it marks the last album recorded with Jim Morrison, who passed away three months after its release.

Mr. Mojo Risin': The Story of L.A. Woman is thus ensconced in an aura of musical nostalgia and creative exploration. The film unfolds through a series of interviews, never-before-seen footage, and performance excerpts to tell the chilling tale of this seminal album's production. It focuses on the tumultuous times that marked the album's inception, recording, and release, shedding light on the band's internal dynamics, musical philosophy, and the socio-cultural milieu that influenced their artistry.

The documentary delves into the nuances that marked the L.A. Woman album - the blues-influenced sound, the insightful lyrics, the presence of the Shepherd's Studio, and more. The interviews feature the remaining band members - Manzarek, Krieger, and Densmore - , giving an authentic, firsthand account of the album's creation. They share personal insights, interesting anecdotes, and reflect on their artistic experiences.

Added to the mix are commentary and perspectives from other musicians, studio personnel, friends, and music critics connected to The Doors’ universe. These external voices enrich the narrative, providing different views regarding the album's uniqueness and its impact on music. It delivers a narrative that is both profoundly personal and sufficiently broad-scoped to understand the album's cultural relevance.

Also central to the film is the exploration of the charismatic and enigmatic Jim Morrison - his artistic influence, intricacies, inexhaustible persona, and the circumstances leading to his tragic death. The exploration of Morrison's life, his role in the band, and his untimely demise adds a poignant layer to the overall film narrative.

Furthermore, the documentary safeguards the band's legacy by showcasing snippets from the iconic performances of L.A Woman tracks, rare studio photos, and other behind-the-scenes footage. It includes the very beginnings of songs such as "Love Her Madly," "Riders On The Storm" and the title track "L.A. Woman", offering fans a firsthand look at the band's creative process.

One standout feature of Mr. Mojo Risin': The Story of L.A. Woman is the insightful criticism the film provides on the album's tracks. It gives a perceptive analysis of each song, shedding light on its backstory, composition, and evolution, serving as an asset to both avid fans and music scholars.

Adding to the documentary’s artistic merit is the vibrant visual narration that complements the audio journey. The film has been carefully compiled, utilizing montages, dramatic shots, and symbolic imagery to provide an immersive cinematic experience. The color grading and film editing, in particular, deserve mention, invoking the retro aesthetic of the era that marked the band’s zenith.

Overall, The Doors - Mr. Mojo Risin': The Story of L.A. Woman is a compelling watch, whether you are a longtime fan of The Doors, a music enthusiast, a history buff, or someone with an interest in pop culture narratives. It offers a multi-layered exploration of a landmark album, a revolutionary band, and an era of cultural upheaval, making it an essential addition to the documentary arena.