In a groundbreaking announcement at CinemaCon in March 2025, director Sam Mendes and Sony Pictures revealed the cast for "The Beatles – A Four Film Cinematic Event," a highly anticipated series of biopics about the legendary band. The project will feature an impressive lineup of writers, including Tony Award winner Jez Butterworth, Oscar winner Peter Straughan, and BAFTA and Tony winner Jack Thorne, who will craft the screenplays for these films.
This cinematic endeavor marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time that Apple Corps Ltd. and the estates of The Beatles—John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr—have granted full life-story and music rights for a scripted film. Mendes, who will direct all four movies, plans to tell the story from each band member’s perspective, intertwining their narratives to portray the incredible journey of the greatest band in history.
The films will star Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. Sony Pictures will finance and distribute the films worldwide, with a theatrical release scheduled for April 2028.
Each writer brings a wealth of experience to the project. Butterworth is known for his work on films such as "Ford v Ferrari" and "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," and he won a Tony Award for his play "The Ferryman." Straughan recently won an Oscar for his screenplay for "Conclave," and has notable credits including "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy." Thorne, a BAFTA and Tony winner, has worked on acclaimed projects like "Enola Holmes" and the stage adaptation of "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child." This talented trio is expected to bring a unique and compelling vision to the story of The Beatles.
In a recent interview on "Jimmy Kimmel Live," Barry Keoghan shared his experience meeting Ringo Starr, who played the drums for him during their encounter. Keoghan expressed his excitement about the role, stating, "I want to humanize him and bring feelings to it and not just sort of imitate." He emphasized the importance of observing Starr's mannerisms to portray the legendary drummer authentically.
Director Sam Mendes highlighted the significance of the project, noting that the separate films would allow for an in-depth examination of the "four very different human beings" in the group. Each film will delve into the individual stories and experiences of the band members, providing fans with a richer understanding of their lives and the music that changed the world.
Fans can expect to see the films released simultaneously in April 2028, a date that is generating considerable buzz among Beatles enthusiasts and film lovers alike. The excitement surrounding the project is palpable, as it promises to be a cinematic event that honors the legacy of one of the most influential bands in music history.
Notably, the collaboration between Mendes and the writers is anticipated to yield a fresh perspective on The Beatles' story. Butterworth, who has worked with Mendes on several projects, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, "It's an incredible honor to be part of telling this story." Straughan and Thorne echoed similar sentiments, recognizing the importance of capturing the essence of the band and their impact on culture.
As the project progresses, fans will undoubtedly be eager to learn more about the creative process and the insights that emerge from these talented writers. With Mendes at the helm and a stellar cast in place, "The Beatles – A Four Film Cinematic Event" is poised to become a landmark achievement in biographical filmmaking.
In addition to his role as Ringo Starr, Keoghan is also set to appear in the upcoming film "Hurry Up Tomorrow," which is scheduled for release on May 16, 2025. The film features a star-studded cast, including The Weeknd and Jenna Ortega, and showcases Keoghan's versatility as an actor. Furthermore, he will reunite with director Bart Layton for the 2026 release "Crime 101," which also stars Chris Hemsworth, Halle Berry, and Mark Ruffalo.
As anticipation builds for the release of these films, fans of The Beatles can look forward to a cinematic experience that promises to be both entertaining and enlightening. The collaboration of such esteemed writers and filmmakers, combined with the rich history of the band, sets the stage for a compelling exploration of The Beatles' journey and their enduring legacy.
