Watch George Harrison: Living in the Material World

George Harrison: Living in the Material World is a 2011 documentary film directed by Martin Scorsese that delves deep into the life and times of one of the Founding Fathers of modern rock music, George Harrison, a member of the legendary band The Beatles. The film is a tribute to Harrison's life, showcasing his remarkable journey as a musician, a creative genius, a spiritual seeker, and an avid philanthropist. The documentary is a treasure trove of archival footage, rare interviews, and photographs that offer a glimpse into Harrison's fascinating world, one that was always immersed in music, spirituality, and the pursuit of peace.

The film is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on Harrison's childhood, his upbringing in Liverpool, and his early years as a musician. The second part of the film chronicles his life after the Beatles, his solo career, his collaborations with other artists, and his later years as a philanthropist. The film is narrated by Martin Scorsese, with insights from George's close family, friends, and collaborators. The interviews range from his fellow Beatles members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, to his first wife Pattie Boyd, his son Dhani Harrison, Eric Clapton, Tom Petty, and many others who knew and worked with George over the years.

The film delves into the themes that were important to George throughout his life. It explores his deep-rooted interest in Indian philosophy and spirituality, which led him to study under the famous sitar maestro Ravi Shankar and his journey to India in 1966. The film also talks about how George's spirituality influenced his music and how he incorporated Eastern musical traditions and instruments into his compositions, such as the sitar, the tabla and the harmonium. The film also discusses George's activism and how he used his celebrity status to support various political causes, such as the Concert for Bangladesh, which aimed to raise awareness about the plight of refugees during the Bangladesh Liberation War.

The documentary also provides a glimpse into George's personal life, including his marriages, his struggles with infidelity, and his years battling cancer. Despite his personal challenges, the film paints a portrait of a man who was always striving to be better, whether it was as a musician, a songwriter, or as a human being. George Harrison was known for his gentle nature, his humility, and his compassion for others. These qualities are evident throughout the film, as many people who knew George speak about his kindness, his generosity and his sense of humor.

Overall, George Harrison: Living in the Material World is a moving tribute to one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century. It is a must-see for any Beatles fan, as it offers a unique perspective into the life and times of one of its members. It is also a film that showcases Harrison's legacy, not just as a musician, but as a humanitarian who used his fame and fortune to help make the world a better place. The film provides insight into the George Harrison beyond the music, showcasing his spiritual side, his activism, his passion for gardening, and his love for his family. George Harrison: Living in the Material World is a beautiful, poignant, and at times, heartbreaking film that celebrates the life of one of the most iconic figures in rock history.

George Harrison: Living in the Material World is a 2011 music movie with a runtime of 3 hours and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1.