The highly anticipated Harris Dickinson Beatles biopic has unveiled its first photos, offering a glimpse into the upcoming four-film series. The project was announced with images posted on the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts’ Instagram account, marking a significant step forward in bringing the legendary band’s story to the screen. This cinematic event, directed by Sam Mendes, is scheduled for release in April 2028 and promises an in-depth portrayal of The Beatles’ lives and music.
Details of the Main Cast and Their Roles
Harris Dickinson takes on the role of John Lennon, with Paul Mescal portraying Paul McCartney. Joseph Quinn and Barry Keoghan complete the quartet as George Harrison and Ringo Starr, respectively. The cast’s transformation for their roles is visible in the photos, such as Keoghan adopting Ringo’s iconic mop-top hairstyle and mustache. Similarly, Mescal sports a hairstyle reminiscent of McCartney in the band’s early years, while Dickinson is seen with Lennon’s signature round glasses and long hair. Quinn appears with long hair and a beard, reflecting Harrison’s look.
Support and Input from the Original Beatles and Families
Ringo Starr, the original Beatles drummer, has expressed his support for Barry Keoghan. At a concert celebrating his 85th birthday, Starr mentioned that he has spent time with Keoghan and feels confident in the actor’s understanding of the role. However, Starr has also shared concerns about the script. In a July interview with Variety, he revealed that after reading the scripts, he noted that one part did not accurately reflect his first marriage to Maureen Starkey Tigrett, who will be portrayed by Mia McKenna-Bruce.
He had a writer…he wrote it great, but it had nothing to do with Maureen and I,
Starr said, referring to his late wife. Ringo Starr
In February 2024, the project received full life and music rights approval from Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison, allowing the filmmakers to authentically depict the band’s journey.
The Cast’s Perspective and Dedication to the Project
Paul Mescal, known for his role in “Normal People,” shared the intensity and pressure of playing such a globally revered figure. During a September appearance on
“In the Envelope: The Actor’s Podcast,”
Mescal described portraying McCartney as “f–king scary” but also thrilling. He emphasized the respect and care being put into the production, highlighting the long rehearsal process the cast has undergone.
It’s so exciting. I’m working again with actors that I really, really admire, and we’re stepping into something where people will have such intense opinions about who [the Beatles] are, or whether we should even be making [these movies] in the first place.
Paul Mescal
But I can tell you from the inside of it that we’re approaching it with the greatest love and respect and rigor. I’ve definitely rehearsed for this longer than I’ve ever rehearsed for anything else in my entire life already. So we’re putting in the hard yards.
Paul Mescal
Mescal also revealed in a separate interview with Indiewire that he will definitely be singing on screen and has spent time with McCartney, whom he described as “extraordinary.”
Additional Cast and Characters Portrayed
The biopic includes several other significant figures from The Beatles’ lives. Saoirse Ronan has been cast as Linda Eastman McCartney, Paul’s wife, while Anna Sawai will portray Yoko Ono, John Lennon’s partner. Aimee Lou Wood will take on the role of Pattie Boyd, George Harrison’s first wife. This well-rounded cast aims to provide both personal and musical insights into the band’s history.
Background and Significance of the Beatles Biopic Project
Set to premiere in 2028, this ambitious four-film series is directed by Sam Mendes, known for his meticulous and acclaimed filmmaking. The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event marks a major effort to chronicle one of the world’s most influential bands with authenticity and depth. The involvement of the original band members and their families underscores the project’s commitment to faithfully representing their legacy.
With the backing of Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison, the biopic is expected to deliver unprecedented access to the personal lives, challenges, and achievements of The Beatles. The series will not only revisit their rise to fame but also explore complex relationships and cultural impacts that continue to resonate decades after the band’s heyday.
This announcement and release of official photos generate significant excitement among fans and cinephiles alike. The combination of Harris Dickinson’s portrayal of Lennon, Paul Mescal’s interpretation of McCartney, and the ensemble cast, alongside Sam Mendes’ direction, marks this as a definitive Beatles project in the 21st century.
