Director Sam Mendes has officially unveiled his ambitious plans for a series of four biopics focusing on the legendary band, The Beatles. This announcement was made during the CinemaCon event held in Las Vegas on March 31, 2025, where Mendes introduced the cast set to portray the iconic Fab Four.
In a move that has excited fans and film enthusiasts alike, Mendes confirmed that Paul Mescal will take on the role of Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson will portray John Lennon, Joseph Quinn will play George Harrison, and Barry Keoghan will star as Ringo Starr. Each of these films will delve into the individual stories of the band members, shedding light on their unique contributions to music and culture.
All four films are set for theatrical release in April 2028, a strategic decision that Mendes described as the "first binge-able theatrical experience." This innovative approach aims to attract audiences back to theaters by offering a cinematic event unlike any other.
Mendes, who has been developing this project for years, expressed his passion for The Beatles, stating, "The Beatles changed my understanding of music. I’ve been trying to make a movie about them for years." He emphasized that the story of the world’s most famous band is too vast to fit into a single film, hence the decision to create four separate movies.
At CinemaCon, Mendes shared his vision, noting, "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." The director has garnered support from surviving band members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, as well as the families of John Lennon and George Harrison, marking a significant milestone in the history of Beatles adaptations.
During the event, the actors recited a line from The Beatles' classic song "Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band," before bowing in a manner reminiscent of the band’s iconic performances. This moment highlighted the deep connection the cast hopes to establish with the audience.
The films will be produced by Mendes’ Neal Street Productions, alongside Pippa Harris and Julie Pastor, who are committed to ensuring that the narratives are both respectful and engaging. Mendes stated, "There had to be a way to tell the epic story for a new generation. I can assure you there is still plenty left to explore, and I think we found a way to do that."
In addition to the individual stories, Mendes aims to capture the essence of The Beatles’ journey from their humble beginnings in Liverpool to becoming a cultural phenomenon. The films will also feature the band's extensive catalog of music, as this marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles have granted full rights for a major film adaptation.
Filming for the four movies is expected to take a year, showcasing the scale and ambition of Mendes’ project. The director’s previous works, including "American Beauty" and "Skyfall," have set high expectations for this venture. Tom Rothman, Sony Pictures chief, humorously likened the undertaking to his experience with the "Avatar" franchise, suggesting that Mendes is making one of the biggest bets in movie history.
As the excitement builds, fans are left to ponder how Mendes will balance the narratives of each band member while also portraying their collective legacy. The Beatles, formed in 1960, are often regarded as the most influential band in music history, and their story has been the subject of numerous adaptations over the years.
Previous films about The Beatles, such as "Nowhere Boy" and the recent Disney+ series "Get Back," have explored different facets of their lives, but Mendes’ project promises a fresh and comprehensive look at the band’s impact on popular culture.
With the release date set for April 2028, audiences will have to wait three years to see how Mendes and his talented cast bring The Beatles’ story to life. The anticipation surrounding this project not only reflects the enduring legacy of The Beatles but also the excitement of a new generation eager to learn about the band that changed music forever.
As Mendes aptly puts it, "Each man has his own story, but together they are legendary." This multi-part biopic could very well redefine how biographical films are made, and perhaps even set a new standard for storytelling in cinema.
