The recently released documentary "One to One: John & Yoko" provides a close-up view of Yoko Ono and John Lennon's early 1970s relocation from England to New York City, emphasizing the harsh criticism Ono endured from Beatles fans throughout their romance. The film, which was directed by Kevin Macdonald, revisits significant events, such as the couple's involvement in the 1972 One to One Benefit Concert in New York City, and includes never-before-seen video of them.
Speaking at the First International Feminist Conference in 1973, Ono talked about the harsh criticism she faced from both society and John Lennon's followers, who closely examined her as an artist and as a woman. When Ono talked about how people started calling her a "bitch" and eventually a "witch" when she started dating Lennon, she was emphasizing the xenophobia and misogyny that grew worse throughout their time together. She related horrific tales of being shunned by society and subjected to personal intimidation, including death threats against her and her unborn child.
The documentary also clarifies the myths surrounding her role in the dissolution of the Beatles, a dispute that Ono believes Lennon's bandmates failed to sufficiently address, using this as an illustration of male chauvinism.
In the documentary, Lennon—who was assassinated in New York in 1980—is seen expressing his deep admiration and affection for Ono and acknowledging that she altered his outlook on life and love.
In addition to examining the couple's personal and professional struggles, "One to One: John & Yoko" chronicles their development and activism, which culminated in the historic performance that significantly increased money for Willowbrook State School's special education program for students with special needs.