John Lennon’s only post-beatles concert film with unseen footage set for release
John Lennon’s only full-length concert after leaving the beatles has been meticulously restored and will be released later this year, offering fans an unprecedented look at the music legend’s post-beatles career. The announcement, made today by dogwoof, confirms the release of One to One: John and Yoko, a new documentary that not only showcases the electrifying performance but also delves into a transformative period in the lives of Lennon and his wife, Yoko Ono.
During the 1970s, Lennon, having relocated to the United States, devoted himself to his solo career and activism. His only full-length concert as a solo artist took place on 30th August 1972 at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. The one to one benefit concert was a dazzling event that saw Lennon and Yoko take to the stage, delivering a passionate and powerful performance. Now, thanks to the restoration efforts, fans will get to witness never-before-seen footage from this historic event in stunning detail.
Dogwoof described the documentary as “an immersive cinematic experience” that revives this extraordinary moment in music history. “With mind-blowing remastered audio overseen by their son, sean ono lennon, the film is both compelling and bittersweet, challenging pre-existing notions of the iconic couple,” the production company stated.
The film is directed by Kevin Macdonald, known for his meticulous approach to historical storytelling. One to one: John and Yoko does more than just present the concert; it explores the pivotal eighteen months leading up to the event. By 1971, Lennon and Yoko had settled in a modest greenwich village apartment, immersing themselves in American culture and media. The film creatively reconstructs their experience through a collage of contemporary television clips—vietnam war broadcasts, the price is right, Richard Nixon’s speeches, coca-cola adverts, Walter Cronkite’s news reports, and the waltons—giving viewers a vivid sense of the era they inhabited.
As the couple navigated their new life in the US, their approach to protest and activism evolved. Their participation in the one to one concert was largely inspired by a television exposé by journalist Geraldo rivera, which highlighted the struggles of disabled children in New York. deeply moved by the programme, Lennon and Yoko committed themselves to the cause, using their music to raise funds and awareness.
More Read
The documentary offers an intimate glimpse into their creative and political transformation, bringing to life the passion and energy that defined their activism. To enhance authenticity, it has been filmed in a meticulously recreated version of the couple’s New York city apartment, allowing audiences to step into their world.
This highly anticipated release is expected to provide a fresh perspective on Lennon’s solo career, his partnership with Yoko, and their broader cultural impact. By combining restored concert footage with behind-the-scenes narratives, one to one: John and Yoko promises to be a deeply moving tribute to one of music’s most influential figures and his equally groundbreaking partner.
For Beatles enthusiasts and music historians alike, this documentary marks an important moment in the ongoing appreciation of lennon’s legacy. It not only preserves a legendary performance but also contextualises it within the socio-political landscape of the time, offering an enriching experience for audiences both old and new.
With its release set for later this year, one to one: John and Yoko is poised to become an essential watch, celebrating the music, activism, and enduring influence of one of the 20th century’s most iconic artists.
