MOVIE REVIEW
Daytime Revolution
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 48m
Director(s): Erik Nelson
Where To Watch: screening in over 50 cities on October 9, 2024; find the showing nearest you here: www.kinolorber.com

RAVING REVIEW: In 1972, John Lennon and Yoko Ono staged a radical takeover of "The Mike Douglas Show," a week that forever changed the fabric of daytime television. Under Erik Nelson’s direction, DAYTIME REVOLUTION revisits this pivotal period, showing how the couple used the platform to fuse entertainment with activism, fundamentally shifting the national conversation.

DAYTIME REVOLUTION layers archival footage with new interviews from the front lines of this media revolution, presenting a rich visual and auditory picture of the moment. The documentary captures Lennon and Ono’s strategic mix of musical performances and pointed discussions on hot-button issues like civil rights, making a robust case for their transformative influence on public discourse.

The film charts new territory in documenting the couple's bold approach, featuring their stirring collaborations and iconic solo performances, underscoring their messages of peace and change. It contrasts these revolutionary acts with the typical light-hearted TV content of the time, emphasizing the show's unique role during that extraordinary week. As it unfolds, DAYTIME REVOLUTION entertains and provokes thought, weaving Lennon and Ono’s public personas with their intense personal and political battles.

One notable aspect of DAYTIME REVOLUTION that warrants further exploration is the documentary's use of technology to restore and enhance the original footage from "The Mike Douglas Show." This technical work not only revitalizes the visual and audio quality of the film but also brings a sharpness that makes the events of 1972 resonate with today's audiences. The restoration process, detailed in the film through behind-the-scenes insights, showcases the meticulous care taken to preserve the authenticity of the historical broadcasts while ensuring that every frame helps convey the urgency and vibrancy of Lennon and Ono's message. This blend of historical dedication and modern technology enriches the viewer's experience, bridging the gap between the past and present media landscapes.

This isn't just a nostalgic trip through a groundbreaking week of television. Nelson’s film peels back layers of history to expose Lennon and Ono's intense political resistance, particularly from the Nixon administration. The documentary underscores the significant risks they embraced, utilizing their star power to challenge societal norms and push for social justice, which had a lasting impact on viewers and participants alike.

Audience members and studio insiders provide heartfelt insights into how that week’s broadcasts affected them, lending a personal touch to the broader narrative and highlighting the enduring influence of Lennon and Ono's efforts. These stories enhance the film, offering a mosaic of impactful moments and personal transformations triggered by the show.

DAYTIME REVOLUTION serves as a compelling reminder of the power of celebrity in activism. More than a historical window, it's a resonant piece that connects past and present struggles for social justice, suggesting that change is always possible, even from the most unlikely places. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in the dynamics of media and change, delivering a potent blend of entertainment and enlightenment that challenges viewers to consider the role of art in activism.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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