The Monkees, the pre-fab band that captivated audiences in the 1960s, had a unique and often controversial journey. Their story is a fascinating blend of talent, image, and artistic rebellion, with a surprising twist involving none other than Jack Nicholson. In this article, I'll delve into the behind-the-scenes tale of how Nicholson co-wrote the Monkees' cult movie, 'Head', and the impact it had on the band's legacy.
The Monkees' Image and the Need for Artistic Freedom
The Monkees, assembled by Bob Rafelson, were initially seen as a manufactured band, often criticized for their pre-fabricated image. This perception was further solidified by the media, with the Daily Mirror sarcastically calling them 'The Pre-Fab Four'. The band members, Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, Mike Nesmith, and Peter Tork, were talented musicians, but their records sometimes lacked the raw authenticity that fans craved. Nesmith, in particular, revealed that the band's music was often recorded without their direct involvement, leading to a sense of disconnection from their art.
The Birth of 'Head': A Drug-Induced Brainstorm
It was this very image of artificiality that led the Monkees to seek artistic freedom. In 1967, Jack Nicholson, a rising star and friend of Rafelson, became involved in the band's project. The story goes that Nicholson, Rafelson, and the Monkees spent a night smoking weed and brainstorming ideas for a movie. The result of this sesh was a screenplay that Nicholson recorded while high on LSD. The movie's title, 'Head', was a playful reference to the band's struggle with their image and the heady, psychedelic nature of the film itself.
A Trippy, Disconnected Journey
'Head' is a surreal and bizarre film, a far cry from the slapstick comedy of the TV series. The movie opens with the Monkees symbolically drowning themselves, a stark contrast to their light-hearted image. The narrative is a series of disconnected vignettes, each exploring themes of media studies, artificiality, and music. From a Western setting to a harem, and even a war picture, the film is a kaleidoscope of genres. Nicholson's influence is evident in the film's structure, as it reflects his own eclectic and experimental style.
A Cult Classic's Struggle for Recognition
Despite its innovative approach, 'Head' was a commercial failure. The film's psychedelic nature and inaccessible storytelling turned off mainstream audiences. The marketing campaign, which failed to emphasize the Monkees' involvement, only added to the confusion. The poster, featuring media theorist John Brockman, was a head-scratching choice. Yet, 'Head' found its niche in the cult film scene, attracting fans who appreciated its pop media deconstruction and exceptional soundtrack. Today, it holds a place in the Criterion Collection, a testament to its enduring appeal and cultural significance.
In conclusion, the Monkees' collaboration with Jack Nicholson on 'Head' was a bold move that challenged the band's image and pushed the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. While the film may have been a commercial disappointment at the time, it has since become a cult classic, offering a unique perspective on the band's journey from pre-fab pop sensations to artistic rebels. Nicholson's involvement adds a layer of intrigue, showcasing the power of creative collaboration and the impact of drug-induced creativity in the world of art.
