The Monkees’ first feature film as a group was “Head.”
Released in 1968, “Head” was directed by Bob Rafelson and written in part by Jack Nicholson, who also appeared in the film. It was designed as an unconventional, self-aware movie that moved away from the straightforward sitcom format associated with The Monkees’ television series.
The film blends comedy, musical performances, surreal sequences, and satire. Its structure deliberately challenges the manufactured-pop image that had often been associated with the band’s television origins. The soundtrack includes songs by the four members and contributions connected with the group’s creative collaborators.
“Head” is sometimes confused with the Beatles’ “A Hard Day’s Night,” another famous film featuring a pop group. That earlier movie was released in 1964 and starred The Beatles, while “Head” was The Monkees’ own feature-film project.