George Harrison: Living in the Material World (2011) | agoodmovietowatch
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George Harrison: Living in the Material World 2011

Martin Scorsese's take on the “quiet” but arguably the most interesting Beatle.

Our Take (by Bilal Zouheir)

Living in the Material World tells the story of one of the most influential musicians of recent history, the “quiet Beatle” George Harrison. It is, in turn, told through the eyes of one of the most prominent filmmakers of recent history, the always amazing Martin Scorsese. Famous for his feature films, Scorsese has been a champion of documentary films and an avid maker of them. Drawing on archive footage, home movies, and many newly recorded interviews, including with Paul and Ringo, Eric Clapton, Phil Spector, and Terry Gilliam, he tells the complete story – and this is to be taken quite literally – of an indeed quiet, torn, and searching human being as well as an immensely talented, inspiring, and spiritual artist. This heart-felt and intimate 3.5-hour documentary is an awe-inspiring exploration of Harrison’s time with The Beatles as well as his subsequent solo career as a musician and as a philanthropist. In case you had your mind made up on who’s your favorite Beatle, Scorsese might make you rethink.

Notable Critics

"More than mere rock-doc hagiography, Material World reveals how a tortured millionaire struggled to tame his soul, understand life and ready himself for death."

— Peter Debruge

Synopsis

Filmmaker Martin Scorsese examines the life of musician George Harrison, weaving together interviews, concert footage, home movies and photographs.

Awards

BAFTA

1 nomination

Nominated: Best Documentary Film

DGA

1 nomination

Nominated: Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Documentary

Nat. Board of Review

1 win

Won: Top Five Documentaries

Comments

  1. I watched this as “part 1” and “part 2”. I could have watched it in 5 parts and it would have still been amazing. So don’t be deterred by its long runtime. It’s probably the best portrayal in a documentary of any artist…ever.

  2. Everyone shpuld watch this film, even if you’re a John Paul or Ringo fan. This is truly lovely and it includes so much i formation,goull learn something new!!

    I was (am),a George fan, and its glorious to behold!! You can still catch Paul or Ringo on late night chat shows, but this is special & unique. It broughtback so many memories from 1962 onforward. and it filled in a lot of blanks.

    Wish Martin Scorseze ( sp??) Would also do one on John, and as time progresses Paul & Ringo. MRtin, you’d better plan to live a long timr!! Im counting on you!!

    Rent or buy this film you’ll want to see it again. It was also very niceto see Olivia & Dhanni.

    Good work!!

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About the author

Bilal Zouheir

Bilal Zouheir

Bilal Zouheir is the founder of A Good Movie to Watch. He is US-based and a member of the Nevada Film Critics Society. He grew up in Morocco, where he learned English from watching movies. Bilal's work with A Good Movie to Watch is focused on offering an alternative to streaming algorithms, which are often used as commercial tools by streaming services.