Four Films, One Legendary Band – The Story of Lennon, McCartney, Harrison & Starr Like Never Before:
The Beatles have never really gone away. Their music still resonates with generation after generation—”Hey Jude” still gives us goosebumps, and “Here Comes the Sun” continues to soundtrack weddings, road trips, and those sunny Sunday mornings. But now, in a truly bold cinematic move, Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes is bringing the Fab Four back into the global spotlight with a four-part biopic series—each film focusing on one Beatle.
This is not just another music biopic. This is the first time the surviving Beatles and Apple Corps have fully authorised a scripted film project based on their lives—with access to their entire catalogue of music and personal stories. Think Bohemian Rhapsody, Rocketman, and Elvis… but times four.
What’s the Big Idea?
Rather than squeezing the whole Beatles saga into a single film, Sam Mendes is creating a cinematic first: four separate movies, each one telling the story of an individual band member—John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr.
Why four? Because each Beatle had a life and legacy that deserves its own spotlight. Mendes believes that understanding The Beatles as a whole means digging deep into who they were apart, not just as a collective. The result? Four intersecting stories that together tell the full Beatles narrative from unique perspectives.
Who’s Playing the Fab Four?
The casting announcements made headlines—and sparked plenty of debates online. Here’s the all-star lineup:
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John Lennon – Harris Dickinson
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Paul McCartney – Paul Mescal
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George Harrison – Joseph Quinn
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Ringo Starr – Barry Keoghan
While not Liverpudlian by birth, these actors have built reputations for emotionally rich and intense performances. Whether you’re a Beatles purist or just along for the ride, this cast is ready to redefine how we see the world’s most iconic band.
When Are the Films Coming Out?
All four films will be released in April 2028, in what Sony Pictures calls “the first-ever bingeable theatrical experience.” Expect back-to-back showings at cinemas, massive press coverage, and fans queuing up in Beatles merch just like it’s 1964 all over again.
A Personal Take: Why This Movie Matters
There have been documentaries, mockumentaries, even cartoon versions of the Beatles. But nothing like this. This is a chance to rediscover the Beatles as human beings, not just icons. It’s about love and loss, ego and brotherhood, creativity and conflict—all played out under the harshest spotlight in history.
Imagine watching “Here Comes the Sun” play as George Harrison walks through his garden in Friar Park. Or seeing Lennon struggle with fame in New York, McCartney crafting “Let It Be” during moments of quiet frustration, or Ringo finding his rhythm and his voice in a band that almost overlooked him. That’s the magic this project promises.
The Vision of Sam Mendes
Sam Mendes isn’t just making a film. He’s crafting a cultural event. Known for cinematic masterpieces like Skyfall, 1917, and American Beauty, Mendes said at CinemaCon:
“We need big cinematic events to get people out of the house—and there’s no bigger story than The Beatles.”
He’s working closely with Apple Corps and the Beatles’ families to ensure every detail rings true—from accents to instruments, fashion to feelings.
The Legacy of “Here Comes the Sun”
Of all the songs in the Beatles’ catalogue, “Here Comes the Sun” holds a special kind of magic. Written by George Harrison, it’s often viewed as the band’s most hopeful track—a hymn to better days, penned at a time when the band itself was falling apart.
It’s the kind of song that transcends generations. Whether in a film trailer or a crucial emotional scene, you can bet “Here Comes the Sun” will play a central role in Harrison’s story—a reminder that even in the band’s darkest moments, light always found a way in.
What Each Film Might Explore
While the scripts are under wraps, here’s what we’re likely to see in each movie:
John Lennon: The Rebel
From his Liverpool roots and the early skiffle days to his complex relationships, Lennon’s story will spotlight activism, artistry, pain, and peace. Expect intense scenes with Yoko, conflicts within the band, and the growing tension that came with fame.
Paul McCartney: The Maestro
McCartney’s story might be the most musically rich—he was, after all, the band’s melodic engine. From writing “Yesterday” in a dream to holding the band together in its final years, Paul’s film will explore leadership, loss, and legacy.
George Harrison: The Quiet Force
Often dubbed the “quiet Beatle,” Harrison was far from silent. His spiritual awakening, songwriting brilliance (think “Something” and “Here Comes the Sun”), and post-Beatles career all deserve deep exploration.
Ringo Starr: The Heartbeat
More than the lovable drummer, Ringo brought soul and stability to the band. His journey—from an outsider to a beloved icon—adds warmth and humanity to the Beatles’ story.
Q&A: Everything Fans Want to Know
Q: Why four films instead of one?
A: Director Sam Mendes wants to give each Beatle their own spotlight. Four lives, four unique perspectives, one epic saga.
Q: Will the Beatles’ actual music be used in the films?
A: Yes! Apple Corps and the surviving Beatles have granted full access to the original songs—this is the first time that’s ever happened in a scripted movie project.
Q: When can I watch them?
A: All four films are set to drop in April 2028. Expect a theatrical release, followed by streaming deals that’ll break the internet.
Q: Are the actors from Liverpool?
A: No, and that’s sparked debate. But the production team is focused on capturing the spirit and soul of each Beatle, not just the accent.
Q: Will there be any cameos from the real Beatles?
A: Nothing confirmed yet—but given the official backing, some Easter eggs or voiceovers aren’t out of the question.
Q: What’s the tone of the films? Will they be dark or upbeat?
A: Expect a balance. These aren’t sugar-coated tributes—they’re emotional, honest, and cinematic explorations of four complicated lives.
Q: Will “Here Comes the Sun” be featured?
A: Almost certainly. It’s one of Harrison’s most beloved works and fits perfectly with the hopeful message of the project.
Final Thoughts: A Beatles Revival for a New Generation
Sam Mendes isn’t just making movies—he’s reigniting Beatlemania. Whether you’re a die-hard fan who wore out vinyl copies of Revolver or a Gen Z newcomer who discovered “Here Comes the Sun” on a Spotify playlist, this project is for you.
Four films. One legacy. And a chance to see the Beatles not as legends, but as the flawed, brilliant, funny, intense, and lovable human beings they truly were.