The Killing of John Lennon

Critics Consensus

Despite a committed performance by newcomer Jonas Ball, The Killing of John Lennon is ultimately a flimsy character study.

39%

TOMATOMETER

Total Count: 36

46%

Audience Score

User Ratings: 35,246
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Movie Info

Disgruntled security guard Mark David Chapman (Jonas Ball) identifies so intensely with "The Catcher in the Rye" that he starts believing himself the novel's protagonist, Holden Caulfield. Like Holden, he hates phonies, and fixates on John Lennon as one of the worst. His contempt soon evolves into a murderous rage, and Chapman vows to kill Lennon. He flies from Hawaii to New York City twice, stalking the ex-Beatle until their fateful encounter outside the Dakota.
  • Genre:
    drama
  • Original Language:
    English
  • Director:
    Andrew Piddington
  • Producer:
    Rakha Singh
  • Release Date (Theaters):
     limited
  • Release Date (Streaming):
  • Box Office (Gross USA):
    $6.7K
  • Runtime:

Cast & Crew

Jonas Ball
Mark David Chapman
Mie Omori
Gloria Chapman
Krisha Fairchild
Chapman's Mom
Robert C. Kirk
Det. John Sullivan
Anthony Solis
Gun Salesman
Vera Felice
Prostitute
Andrew Piddington
Director
Andrew Piddington
Writer
Rakha Singh
Producer
Rod Pearson
Executive Producer
Tora Peterson
Production Design
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News & Interviews for The Killing of John Lennon

Critical Consensus: Atonement is Certified Fresh, One Missed Call Not Screened
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Critic Reviews for The Killing of John Lennon

All Critics (36) | Top Critics (18) | Fresh (14) | Rotten (22)

View All Critic Reviews (36)

Audience Reviews for The Killing of John Lennon

  • Jan 11, 2014
    The assassination of legendary musician John Lennon was one of the most shocking moments in the history of music. The Killing of John Lennon is a disturbing character study about Lennon's killer, Mark David Chapman. This is the type of film that is no everyone due to its subject. Nonetheless, it's a well directed affair that is very well acted and has a tense atmosphere from start to finish. You really get a sense of how disturbed Chapman was, and actor Jonas Ball is very good in the part. The story is well thought out, and it grabs your attention from start to finish. I liked the film, and I thought that it was a very good drama that recounted a terrible tragedy. Lennon's death was tragic, and this film shows everything that leads right up to his death at the hand of Chapman. Brilliantly crafted, The Killing of John Lennon is a unique film experience because it really goes deep into the mind of the killer that was Chapman. As far as character studies go, this is among the finest that I have seen. The film manages to be disturbing, depressing and ultimately sad due to the fact that it revisits that fateful night of December 8th, 1980. Director Andrew Piddington delivers a standout drama, one that relies on a great cast and true story to make this picture truly standout. Like I said, this isn't a film for everyone, but if you enjoy character studies, then this is worth watching. Yes, it gets into the might of a depraved individual, but in doing so, you are mesmerized by the film's story. A well made picture, and one that is unforgettable.
    Alex r Super Reviewer
  • Apr 04, 2011
    This was slightly different than the Jared Leto "Chapter 27." This was much more diverse in the background information. You actually have scenes in Hawaii, it shows both trips to NY and exposes his torn relationships with his mother and his wife.
    Sean G Super Reviewer
  • Aug 06, 2009
    I can't believe I just gave 2 hours of my time to further the name of someone who was SO sick he took John Lennon away, one of the most talented songwriters.. He was obviously disturbed and wanted to be famous, much in the way people today want their 15 minutes even if it is at the expense of others lives... I hope NO ONE else watches this and gives that sick man the satisfaction of prolonging his fame, which was achieved in the worst way and forever changed the music world. II won't be discussing the movie, but I will not recommend it either, because I feel then I am giving too much power and fame to a person who do not deserve it. I am ashamed of myself for being sucked in by the title. So, if you loved John Lennon and his music,skip this movie. The last thing a Beatle fan needs to hear about is Mark David Chapman. TRASH ...
    Daisy M Super Reviewer
  • Apr 06, 2009
    Not bad but if you are going to watch a movie on Mark David Chapman then you should rent Chapter 27 with Jared Leto in the role.
    Lee K Super Reviewer
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