Watch Intimate Portrait: Yoko Ono

Intimate Portrait: Yoko Ono is a biographical documentary that explores the life and artistic career of Japanese artist, musician, and activist Yoko Ono. The documentary is directed by Gerald Wenner and features interviews with Ono, her son Sean Lennon, and actress Sally Kellerman, who provides narration for the film. The documentary begins by exploring Ono's early life in Japan, where she was born into a wealthy and influential family. Ono's early years were marked by tragedy, as she witnessed the bombing of Tokyo during World War II and her father was imprisoned by Allied forces for suspected war crimes. These early experiences of trauma and loss would leave a lasting impression on Ono and would inform much of her later work as an artist and activist.

As a young woman, Ono moved to New York City in the 1950s, where she quickly became involved in the city's vibrant art scene. She befriended many of the leading artists and musicians of the era, including John Cage, Marcel Duchamp, and Andy Warhol, and soon began making her own experimental works of art. Ono's art was often avant-garde and controversial, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in the art world at the time.

The documentary also delves into Ono's relationship with John Lennon, which began in the late 1960s and lasted until Lennon's death in 1980. Ono and Lennon's partnership was an intense and often tumultuous one, with the couple facing intense scrutiny and criticism from the press and fans alike. The documentary interviews Lennon's son Sean about his relationship with his mother and how he has come to appreciate her art and activism over the years.

Throughout the documentary, Ono reflects on her life and career, discussing the various projects and causes that have been important to her over the years. From her anti-war activism during the 1960s and 1970s to her ongoing advocacy for climate change and peace initiatives, Ono has been a passionate and vocal advocate for social justice and equality throughout her life.

Intimate Portrait: Yoko Ono is a fascinating and insightful documentary that offers a unique glimpse into the life and work of one of the most influential and controversial artists of the 20th century. With its mix of archival footage, interviews, and original artwork, the documentary provides a comprehensive overview of Ono's creative legacy and the impact she has had on the art world and beyond. Whether you are a longtime fan of Ono or simply curious about her life and work, this documentary is well worth a watch.

Intimate Portrait: Yoko Ono is a 1995 documentary with a runtime of 44 minutes.