The U.S. vs. John Lennon
A review of this film about Lennon, his music, and his work for peac
The U.S. vs. John Lennon is an incredible documentary about Lennon and his music, marriage to Yoko, and his work towards peace.
All he was saying, was to give peace a chance. Apparently, for some, this went too far. Far enough to try to get him out of the country.
The U.S. vs. John Lennon takes an in-depth look into the life, music, and peace activities of Beatles founder and sognwriter John Lennon. Numerous people from his life are interviewed throughout the film, including fellow musicians, family friends, and, of course, Yoko Ono.
The film especially focusses on the backlash towards John Lennon by the government of the United States, especially the FBI, for his peace making activities. He was viewed as a threat to national security, and the government tried to get him deported. This is a side of Lennons's life and career that perhaps many do not know about.
Lennon was a controversial figure ever since he rose to fame with The Beatles. He was by far the most outspoken of the group, which sometimes got them into trouble. The whole "we're bigger than Jesus" thing is explored to put Lennon's later political involvements into context. His family background and formative years are also examined. Deep-rooted problems with authority perhap lay at the core of Lennon's belief system, but clearly shown is a growing social consciousness in him as an adult.
However, the majority of the film focusses on his post-Beatles days with Yoko. From taking part in a benefit concert to call for a marijuana activist to be let out of prison, to the famous "bed-in," Lennon's growing political awareness and involvement is documented, as is the baklash against him. Even a few of those former FBI and government members are presented for their perspective, including someone who would not allow his children to sing the song "Imagine" during a school choir performance.
Apparently, Lennon's views about peace were considered way too radical and dangerous. The deportation scheme ultimately failed, but not without much work and advocating on the part of Lennon, Yoko, and their lawyer. Finally, the film discusses the death of John Lennon, and how his murder impacted society.
Any person interested in peace should watch The U.S. vs John Lennon. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of a man who literally lived for peace. Beatles fans will of course want to check out this film for obvious reasons. As for everyone else - Lennon is a controversial figure, and love him or hate him, everyone has an opinion. Lennon has made a lasting impact not only in the world of music, but also the world at large, and many of his songs and ideals are still espoused by those in the peace movement today.
