"The world could forget the Beatles" - "The world could forget the Beatles"
Sean Ono Lennon has become a key figure in preserving his parents’ legacy. The son of John Lennon and Yoko Ono recently won an Oscar for an animated short inspired by their music. Now, he faces the challenge of keeping their message alive for future generations.
The 2024 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film went to War Is Over!, a project created by Sean Ono Lennon. The film tells the story of two opposing soldiers in World War I who exchange chess moves via carrier pigeon. Their game unfolds to the soundtrack of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s anti-war anthem Happy Xmas (War Is Over).
Sean has long felt responsible for upholding his parents’ values of peace and activism. He describes this duty as a mix of humour and serious commitment. His mother, Yoko Ono, previously guarded John Lennon’s legacy, but now that role has passed to him.
Beyond his own work, new projects continue to explore the Beatles’ influence. A four-part film series directed by Sam Mendes will arrive in 2028, with each instalment focusing on a different band member. Meanwhile, an HBO documentary titled One to One examines John and Yoko’s first year in New York, including their 1971 Madison Square Garden concert. Sean has called this period his 'origin story'.
Yet, despite these efforts, he worries the world may one day forget the Beatles and his parents’ impact. The fear drives him to keep their message relevant through film, music, and public engagement.
Sean Ono Lennon’s Oscar win has brought fresh attention to his parents’ anti-war ideals. With upcoming films and documentaries, their legacy remains in the spotlight. But as time passes, he knows the task of preserving their memory will only grow harder.
