Release Date: July 5, 2024 (United States)
Runtime: 1h 41m
Director: Lindsay Ellis
Writers: Lindsay Ellis, Angelina M.
Genre: Documentary/Drama
Country of Origin: United States
Language: English
Characters
Lindsay Ellis as Self (voice)
Abigail Thorn as Self
F.D Signifier as Self
Harry Brewis as Self
Rohin Francis as Self
Michael Hobbes as Self (voice)
Mikey Neumann as Self
Münecat as Self
Todd Nathanson as Mark David Chapman (voice) (as Todd in the Shadows)
Storyline
“The Ballad of John and Yoko” explores the notorious Beatles breakup, highlighting Yoko Ono’s sometimes misconstrued role. The film highlights the intricate interplay of personal, cultural, and musical dynamics that contributed to the band’s dissolution, challenging the dominant narratives that have unfairly portrayed Yoko as the only villain. In order to create a complex portrait of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Lindsay Ellis deftly combines interviews, archive material, and knowledgeable commentary. This helps to illuminate the socio-political background of their relationship as well as the influence of the media on public opinion.
Reviews
The film has won praise from critics for its careful research, sympathetic narrative, and perceptive analysis. Lindsay Ellis’s direction and narrative style, which blends academic rigor with an approachable, captivating style, have been lauded by reviewers. The contributions of F.D. Signifier and Abigail Thorn are renowned for their diversity and depth of viewpoint.
Top Reviews
Rolling Stone: “A groundbreaking documentary that redefines our understanding of the Beatles’ breakup. Lindsay Ellis has created a must-watch for fans and historians alike.”
The Guardian: “Ellis’s film is both a passionate defense of Yoko Ono and a compelling study of media manipulation. A triumph of modern documentary filmmaking.”
Variety: “With its sharp analysis and emotional resonance, ‘The Ballad of John and Yoko’ stands out as a definitive account of one of music history’s most talked-about chapters.”
Box-Office Collection
“The Ballad of John and Yoko” has performed well at the box office, particularly for a documentary. In its opening weekend, it grossed $8 million in the United States. The film has seen steady attendance due to positive word-of-mouth and critical reviews, with a total worldwide gross of $35 million as of its fourth week in theaters.
