Watch George Harrison: Living in the Material World

George Harrison: Living in the Material World is a two-part documentary series that shed light on the life and work of the renowned singer-songwriter, George Harrison. The show was directed by Martin Scorsese and premiered on BBC Four in 2011. The show takes a chronological approach to Harrison's life, beginning with his early years as a member of The Beatles. Through interviews with his family, friends, and collaborators, viewers get a glimpse into Harrison's experiences as a member of one of the most iconic bands in history. The show also includes footage and pictures from Harrison's personal archive, providing unique insights into his thought processes and inspirations.

As the show progresses, viewers learn about Harrison's spiritual journey, which was heavily influenced by his interest in Eastern philosophy and religion. Interviews with Ravi Shankar, a close friend of Harrison's who introduced him to Indian music and spirituality, are particularly insightful in this regard. The documentary also features interviews with members of The Beatles, including Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, who provide their own perspectives on Harrison's life and work.

Throughout the show, Harrison's passion for music is a recurring theme. The documentary explores his solo career, which included hits like "My Sweet Lord" and "Got My Mind Set on You." The show also delves into Harrison's collaborations with other musicians, such as Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, and Eric Clapton. These collaborations gave Harrison a chance to explore different musical styles and experiment with new sounds.

In addition to his music, the documentary also addresses Harrison's humanitarian work. He was a vocal supporter of various causes, such as the relief efforts in Bangladesh in 1971. The show includes footage from The Concert for Bangladesh, a benefit concert organized by Harrison and Shankar that raised money for the victims of the conflict in East Pakistan. Harrison's activism continued throughout his life, and the show explores his work with organizations like Greenpeace and the Material World Charitable Foundation, which he established in 1973.

One of the standout features of George Harrison: Living in the Material World is its use of archival footage and interviews. Scorsese and his team have assembled an impressive collection of materials that paint a vivid picture of Harrison's life and work. The interviews are particularly engaging, as many of the interviewees are people who knew Harrison personally. Their recollections are often poignant and provide valuable insight into who Harrison was as a person.

Overall, George Harrison: Living in the Material World is a compelling documentary series that offers a comprehensive look at the life and work of an iconic musician. It sheds light on Harrison's unique perspectives on spirituality, music, and activism, making it a must-watch for Beatles fans and music enthusiasts alike. The documentary is a fitting tribute to a talented musician and visionary humanitarian.

George Harrison: Living in the Material World is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between November 12, 2011 and on BBC Four