The US vs John Lennon

A new documentary chronicling John Lennon's transformation from loveable Beatles mop-top pop star into full-fledged social activist is set for release next year. The Hollywood Reporter reported that the movie, tentatively titled, The US vs. John Lennon, will be released around July 2006 - marking the 30th anniversary of his historic victory against the US government. After attempts to oust him from the country, he was finally awarded his "green card," which officially granted him permanent residency status.

Due to his outspoken stance against the Vietnam war, he and his equally strident wife had been under almost constant surveillance from the FBI and the INS (Immigration & Neutralization Service) since his arrival in the States in 1971. The film will focus on the years 1966 to 1976 and Lennon's emergence as an anti-war and human rights activist.

In addition to his and Ono's anti-war protests - including their legendary "bed-ins" for peace - The US vs. John Lennon will touch upon his work for the mentally retarded, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the March Of Dimes, the plight of the Native Americans and many more.

The film is being co-written, directed and produced by noted filmmaker David Leaf, who earlier this year directed Beautiful Dreamer: Brian Wilson And The Story Of Smile. The project has the full cooperation with the former Beatle's widow Yoko Ono.