Watch John & Yoko: Above Us Only Sky

John & Yoko: Above Us Only Sky is a 2018 documentary film that explores the making of John Lennon's 1971 album, Imagine. Directed by Michael Epstein, the film features footage of Lennon and his wife, Yoko Ono, during the recording sessions at their Tittenhurst Park estate in Ascot, England. The film also delves into Lennon's evolution as an artist and activist during the late 1960s and early 1970s, and the impact that Ono had on his life and work. Through interviews with key figures in Lennon's life, including Ono, former Beatles bandmate George Harrison, and esteemed journalist Ray Connolly, the film paints a vivid portrait of Lennon's creative process and the collaborative spirit that defined his work.

But what sets John & Yoko: Above Us Only Sky apart from other Lennon documentaries is its emphasis on Ono's contribution to the Imagine album and its enduring legacy. The film reveals how Ono's avant-garde sensibilities and unorthodox approach to music challenged Lennon to push the boundaries of his own creativity, resulting in some of the most electrifying and impactful music of his career.

At the heart of the film is the message of peace and unity that defined Lennon's work with Ono, and the ways in which their partnership paved the way for other artists to embrace new sounds and ideas. Through unseen footage of Lennon and Ono rehearsing songs like "Imagine" and "Gimme Some Truth," and interviews with fellow musicians like bassist Klaus Voormann and drummer Jim Keltner, the film captures the raw energy and passion that went into the making of Imagine, and the sense of purpose that motivated Lennon and Ono throughout their creative partnership.

But the film also offers a more intimate look at Lennon and Ono's relationship, shedding light on their dynamics as a couple and the challenges they faced as public figures under the constant scrutiny of the media. Through interviews with Diana Robertson, Lennon and Ono's longtime assistant and friend, the film explores the more personal side of their lives, including their son Sean's birth and the moments of joy and laughter that kept them grounded during difficult times.

Overall, John & Yoko: Above Us Only Sky is a poignant and enlightening tribute to one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, and a reminder of the power of creativity and collaboration to inspire change and bring people together. With its stunning archival footage, insightful interviews, and evocative soundtrack, the film does justice to the legacy of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, and the timeless message of hope and love that they championed throughout their lives.

John & Yoko: Above Us Only Sky is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.