Masterpiece Season 40 Episode 33 Lennon Naked

In Masterpiece season 40 episode 33, titled "Lennon Naked," viewers are transported back to December 1970, a time when John Lennon was at the height of his fame, but also at a personal crossroads. The episode tells the story of Lennon's life during this tumultuous time, as he navigates through the dissolution of his band, The Beatles, and the end of his marriage to Cynthia Powell.

The episode, which was written by Robert Jones and directed by Edmund Coulthard, is a deeply intimate portrayal of Lennon, one that strips away the legend and examines the man behind it. Christopher Eccleston plays Lennon, and gives a powerful performance, capturing both his public persona and his private struggles.

As the episode opens, Lennon is seen in his recording studio, singing "Mother," a song that serves as a vehicle for his pain and confusion. His relationship with Yoko Ono is strained, and he is wondering if he should go back to his old style of music, or continue with his experimental work. He is also grappling with the consequences of his past, including his drug use and his behavior towards Cynthia.

As the story unfolds, viewers are given an inside look into Lennon's world. We see him with his friends and collaborators, including Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, as well as with his lovers and family members. We witness his struggles with addiction, and his attempts to reconcile with Cynthia and their son Julian.

Throughout it all, Eccleston's portrayal of Lennon is raw and honest. He captures the contradictions of the man, portraying him as both vulnerable and arrogant, generous and cruel. He also brings to life Lennon's groundbreaking music, singing the songs with passion and conviction.

The episode is not just a portrait of Lennon, but also a tribute to the music that he created. Viewers are treated to an array of classic songs, including "Imagine," "Jealous Guy," and "Instant Karma!" Along the way, we see how Lennon's music was influenced by his personal life, and how it in turn influenced a generation.

"Lennon Naked" is not a typical biopic. It is a deeply personal and introspective look at one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Through its powerful performances and evocative soundtrack, the episode transports viewers back in time, to a moment when the world was changing, and so was its most famous musician.