Sam Mendes Reveals Beatles Biopics Cast Set for 2028 Release

Cast of the new Beatles biopics standing next to each other

Director Sam Mendes has officially announced the highly anticipated release of four biopics centered around The Beatles, which are set to hit theaters in April 2028. This groundbreaking and ambitious project aims to delve deeply into the individual stories of each iconic band member, showcasing their unique journeys, struggles, and triumphs, with a star-studded cast bringing these legendary figures to life in a way that has never been seen before.

Key Takeaways

  • Release Date: All four films will be released in April 2028.
  • Cast: Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison, and Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr.
  • Format: Each film will focus on a different member of The Beatles, creating a unique narrative experience.
  • Production: Filming is set to begin later this year, with Mendes directing all four films.

The Vision Behind The Biopics

During a presentation at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Mendes expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We’re not just making one film about the Beatles — we’re making four. Perhaps this is a chance to understand them a little more deeply.” This ambitious approach allows for a more nuanced exploration of the band’s history and individual contributions.

Mendes described the films as the “first binge-able theatrical experience,” a term coined by Sony Pictures’ CEO Tom Rothman. This suggests that audiences may experience the films in a way that encourages viewing them in quick succession, similar to binge-watching a television series.

The Cast

The casting choices have generated significant buzz, with each actor bringing their unique talents to portray the legendary musicians:

  • Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney: Known for his roles in “Gladiator II” and “Aftersun.”
  • Harris Dickinson as John Lennon: Recently seen in the film “Babygirl.”
  • Joseph Quinn as George Harrison: Gained fame for his role as Eddie Munson in “Stranger Things.”
  • Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr: Acclaimed for performances in “Saltburn” and “The Banshees of Inisherin.”

A Unique Cinematic Experience

The Beatles biopics will not only focus on the individual stories of the band members but will also intertwine their narratives, providing a comprehensive look at their journey from Liverpool to global superstardom. Mendes emphasized that the films will overlap at various points, showcasing different perspectives on shared experiences.

This project marks a significant milestone as it is the first time Apple Corps has granted rights to the band’s life stories and music for a cinematic endeavor. The films will feature a rich soundtrack of Beatles classics, including hits like “Let It Be” and “Strawberry Fields Forever.”

Anticipation and Impact

With the Beatles being the best-selling music act of all time, the anticipation surrounding these films is immense. Sony Pictures aims to tap into the band’s devoted fan base, creating a cultural event that will dominate the box office in April 2028. Tom Rothman stated, “We are going to dominate the culture that month,” highlighting the studio’s confidence in the project.

As the release date approaches, fans and film enthusiasts alike are eager to see how Mendes will bring the stories of these iconic musicians to life, promising a cinematic experience unlike any other.

Sources