In a groundbreaking announcement at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Sony Pictures revealed an ambitious project featuring four major films about the legendary band The Beatles, set to be released in April 2028. The films will star Paul Mescal as Sir Paul McCartney, Barry Keoghan as Sir Ringo Starr, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. This venture, directed by the acclaimed Sir Sam Mendes, marks a significant moment in cinematic history, as it is the first time that Apple Corps Ltd and the estates of The Beatles have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film.
Sir Sam Mendes, known for his Oscar-winning films, described the project as the "first binge-able theatrical experience." He expressed his long-standing desire to tell the story of The Beatles, stating, "I’ve been trying to make a story about The Beatles for years." Each film will focus on a different member of the iconic group, providing a unique perspective on their lives and contributions to music and culture.
The announcement was made on March 31, 2025, during the CinemaCon event, where Mendes and the cast delighted attendees with the news. Mendes emphasized the importance of the films, saying, "They intersect in different ways - sometimes overlapping, sometimes not. They’re four very different human beings. Perhaps this is a chance to understand them a little more deeply." The films will be released "in proximity" to each other, allowing audiences to experience the full narrative of The Beatles' journey.
Paul Mescal, who gained fame from his role in the BBC's Normal People, will portray McCartney. The 29-year-old actor has also starred in critically acclaimed films, including Aftersun, for which he received an Oscar nomination. Mescal is also set to appear in the film adaptation of the award-winning novel Hamnet, where he plays William Shakespeare.
Barry Keoghan, 32, known for his roles in The Banshees of Inisherin and Saltburn, will embody Ringo Starr. Keoghan has been recognized as one of Hollywood's rising stars, and his casting has generated excitement among fans. Mendes noted Keoghan's resemblance to Starr, adding a layer of authenticity to the portrayal.
Harris Dickinson, who has gained recognition for his performances in films such as Triangle of Sadness and Where the Crawdads Sing, will take on the role of John Lennon. The 28-year-old actor has already received a BAFTA TV Award nomination, further solidifying his status as a talented performer. Meanwhile, Joseph Quinn, who rose to fame through his role in Stranger Things, will portray George Harrison. The 31-year-old actor is also set to play Johnny Storm in the upcoming Marvel films, The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Avengers: Doomsday.
The Beatles, formed in 1960, are widely regarded as the best-selling musical act of all time, having achieved 18 UK number one singles and 16 UK number one albums. Their influence on music and culture is unparalleled, with their innovative approach to songwriting and performance leaving an indelible mark on generations of artists and fans alike. Despite their breakup in 1970, the band's legacy continues to thrive, with their music remaining popular and relevant.
In 2023, the surviving members of The Beatles released what was described as the band's "final" song, Now And Then, based on one of Lennon's old demo tapes. The track featured an archive recording of Harrison's guitar work and quickly climbed to number one on the charts, receiving nominations for prestigious awards at the Brits and the Grammys.
During the CinemaCon presentation, Mendes shared his vision for the films, stating that the story of The Beatles was too vast to be contained within a single movie. He explained, "I just felt the story of the band was too huge to fit into a single movie, and that turning it into a TV mini-series just somehow didn't feel right." Mendes's commitment to capturing the essence of The Beatles' journey reflects his deep admiration for the band and their impact on music history.
As the project unfolds, it has garnered significant attention not only for its star-studded cast but also for the unprecedented access granted by The Beatles' estates. Mendes's production company, Neal Street Productions, is collaborating with Dame Pippa Harris and Julie Pastor to bring this ambitious vision to life.
The casting of Mescal, Keoghan, Dickinson, and Quinn has sparked excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. Their individual talents and dedication to their roles promise to deliver a captivating portrayal of The Beatles, exploring the complexities of their lives and the music that changed the world.
In a light-hearted moment during the announcement, the cast quoted from The Beatles' song Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, stating, "It's wonderful to be here, it's certainly a thrill, you're such a lovely audience, we'd like to take you home with us." This playful interaction highlighted the camaraderie among the actors and their enthusiasm for the project.
As anticipation builds for the release of these films in April 2028, fans of The Beatles can look forward to a fresh exploration of the band's legacy. With Mendes at the helm and a talented cast in place, the project promises to be a monumental cinematic event that will resonate with audiences worldwide.
