(Shout! Factory, 50 minutes)

www.shoutfactory.com

BY ROB THORMEYER

How does John Lennon confirm the split of the biggest rock band in history? By making his first onstage appearance in three years-before 20,000 people, with Eric Clapton on lead guitar and Yoko Ono at his side.

D.A. Pennebaker's John Lennon & Plastic Ono Band Live in Toronto ‘69 serves as more than just an historic document; it gives the viewer a front-row seat to Lennon at one of his most decisive moments. Though the Beatles weren't officially finished, Lennon's appearance at the Toronto Rock ‘N' Roll Festival was the nail in the proverbial coffin. And with Pennebaker's intimate camera work, Lennon's vulnerability is on vivid display. While a bit unsure at the outset, you can see his confidence grow as the band plowed through 50s standards "Blue Suede Shoes" and "Money" before blowing the crowd away with White Album's "Yer Blues." Of course, a little bit of Yoko Ono can be too much Yoko Ono, so don't feel bad about skipping the last two tracks-though getting a glimpse of Clapton's eyes during Ono's "singing" is priceless.

For historical significance, this one's tough to beat.

Special Features: Interview with Yoko Ono.