“Movie Man”: The Osmonds’ Unexpected Philosophical Pop-Rock Journey
For many of us who grew up with the infectious harmonies and wholesome image of The Osmonds, their music was a vibrant soundtrack to our youth. From pop anthems to heartfelt ballads, they carved out a unique space in the crowded landscape of 1970s pop. Yet, beyond the familiar hits, there lay a deeper, more experimental side to their artistry. Today, we’re delving into one such surprising gem: “Movie Man.”
Released in 1973 as part of their ambitious concept album, “The Plan,” “Movie Man” stands out as a fascinating departure from the typical Osmonds sound. While it didn’t achieve the widespread chart success of their mega-hits like “One Bad Apple” or “Love Me For A Reason,” it did find a notable audience in some international markets, reaching number 6 in France in October 1973. This particular track, featuring Alan Osmond on lead vocals, showcases the group’s willingness to push creative boundaries and explore more complex themes, moving beyond their teen idol image.
“The Plan” itself was a bold statement, a rock opera that delved into the Osmonds’ deep-seated Mormon faith and their beliefs about the purpose of life. It was a project born from months of intense writing, a desire by the older brothers – Alan, Wayne, and Merrill – to create something on par with the ambitious works of bands like The Beatles and The Who. They sought to infuse their music with profound spiritual meaning, even if it risked alienating some of their established fanbase. “Movie Man”, in this grander narrative, serves as an allegorical piece, reportedly hinting at a “silly, Lucifer-like character” and exploring themes of illusion versus reality, a central tenet within the album’s spiritual framework.
The song’s meaning is intertwined with the overarching philosophical narrative of “The Plan.” It speaks to the idea of being a spectator in life, perhaps observing the world unfold as if it were a film, and questioning the true nature of what is seen. The “Movie Man” could be interpreted as a figure who controls perceptions, presenting a manufactured reality, or perhaps even a metaphor for the individual’s journey through life’s trials and illusions. The lyrics, though seemingly playful on the surface, carry a subtle depth that invites introspection, particularly when viewed through the lens of faith and self-discovery.
What makes “Movie Man” so compelling is its musical adventurousness. It deviates from the pure pop sensibility, incorporating elements that lean closer to progressive rock or even early synth-pop, an experimental touch that might surprise those only familiar with their more radio-friendly tunes. This track, along with others on “The Plan,” truly highlighted the musical prowess of The Osmonds as a cohesive unit, demonstrating their capacity to arrange intricate harmonies and instrumental passages that transcended mere pop catchy tunes.
For those of us who followed The Osmonds through their evolving career, “Movie Man” is a vivid reminder of their artistic courage. It recalls a time when popular artists weren’t afraid to take risks, to challenge audience expectations, and to weave personal beliefs into their creative output. Listening to it now, we can appreciate the layers of meaning and the musical ambition that went into its creation. It transports us back to an era when albums were often conceptual journeys, meant to be listened to from beginning to end, revealing a narrative that unfolded with each track. “Movie Man” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to The Osmonds‘ enduring legacy as musicians who, beneath the surface of their undeniable pop stardom, were indeed thoughtful artists exploring the deeper questions of life through their craft. It’s a delightful, almost wistful, reminder of a time when music could both entertain and provoke thought, leaving us with a feeling of nostalgia for the innovative spirit of that era.
