Sony Pictures released the first official photographs of actors portraying The Beatles on Friday, featuring Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, alongside Paul Mescal, Joseph Quinn, and Barry Keoghan. The images offer a glimpse into director Sam Mendes‘ ambitious four-part Beatles cinematic event, scheduled for release in theaters on April 7, 2028. The series aims to explore the lives and music of the iconic Liverpool band in unprecedented detail, highlighting Dickinson’s portrayal of Lennon during the Let It Be era.
Actors Transform into Beatles Legends in Distinct Eras
The newly unveiled snapshots capture Paul Mescal as a youthful Paul McCartney, shown near the Cavern Club in Liverpool—an important venue from the band’s early days. Barry Keoghan embodies Ringo Starr, complete with the drummer’s recognizable mustache, moptop hairstyle, and polka-dot shirt from the Let It Be recording sessions. Harris Dickinson appears dressed as John Lennon, featuring Lennon’s signature shoulder-length hair and thin glasses while whistling into a microphone. Meanwhile, Joseph Quinn adopts a serious expression portraying George Harrison, also sporting the band’s 1970s appearance.
Excitement Builds After Campus Treasure Hunt in Liverpool
Just a day before the official reveal, Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts students discovered secret postcards with these photographs scattered across their campus. The unique reveal sparked widespread excitement and social media buzz, as fans eagerly discussed the actors’ transformations into the award-winning group. This anticipation further emphasizes the importance of the project to both the music and film communities.
Mendes’ Four-Film Project to Offer an In-Depth Look at the Beatles’ Stories
Each actor will headline their own installment within the four-film series, which will collectively provide a deep dive into the personalities and creative minds of The Beatles. Sam Mendes has described the films as a “four film cinematic event” that will allow audiences to experience the band’s story like never before—all set for simultaneous release in 2028.
Unlike previous Beatles adaptations, Mendes’ production is the first to obtain full rights to the band’s life story and music from both The Beatles and Apple Corps Ltd., facilitating an authentic portrayal of their journey. The director expressed his enthusiasm, stating,
“I’m honoured to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of what constitutes a trip to the movies,”
reflecting the project’s ambitious scope and emotional weight.
Barry Keoghan Shares Personal Experience Meeting Ringo Starr
Barry Keoghan recently debuted his Ringo Starr look at the London premiere of the movie Crime 101 and has spoken candidly about the challenges of embodying the legendary drummer. He admitted feeling overwhelmed during his initial encounter with Starr.
“And when I was talking to him, I couldn’t look at him,”
Keoghan revealed.
“I was nervous, like right now. But he’s like, ‘You can look at me.’”
The actor also recalled joking with co-star Joseph Quinn during a live BBC Radio 1 Breakfast Show when Quinn remarked that Keoghan
“looked more like Ringo than Ringo.”
Keoghan confirmed his excitement, saying, “I’m doing the screen test,” and added,
“It’s great. I look amazing. I’m not even messing — I look amazing.”
Supporting Cast Adds Depth to Beatles’ Storytelling
The film series will feature notable performers filling key roles surrounding the band, enhancing the narrative’s richness. Saoirse Ronan will depict Linda McCartney, Anna Sawai will portray Yoko Ono, and Aimee Lou Wood will take on the role of Pattie Boyd. Mia McKenna-Bruce has been cast as Maureen Starkey Tigrett, while Harry Lloyd will bring to life producer George Martin, often referred to as the fifth Beatle. James Norton will represent Brian Epstein, the band’s influential manager.
Upcoming Beatles Films Set to Reshape Music Biographies on Screen
Sam Mendes’ Beatles project promises to redefine how audiences experience music biopics through a comprehensive, multi-film storytelling approach. By securing complete music and life story rights, the series is positioned to provide an immersive and authentic glimpse into the Beatles’ enduring legacy. With the initial images already stirring excitement and the talented ensemble cast confirmed, anticipation continues to build toward the April 2028 release, which is expected to captivate fans and newcomers alike.
