A ripple of excitement surged through Liverpool today, not from a concert or a festival, but from a series of unexpected discoveries. Postcards, bearing the faces of a new generation embodying musical legends, began appearing around the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts – a school co-founded by a Beatle himself.
These weren’t just any postcards. They offered the first glimpse of Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison, and Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, transformed for an ambitious four-film cinematic event. The images, shared by LIPA, sparked immediate conversation and a wave of anticipation.
Mescal’s postcard captured a moment seemingly lifted from The Beatles’ early days at The Cavern Club, the actor sporting the iconic 60s mop-top. Keoghan, as Starr, was pictured with headphones and a distinctive patterned shirt, a playful nod to the drummer’s signature style. Dickinson channeled Lennon’s intensity with round glasses and a microphone, while Quinn’s Harrison exuded a quiet coolness with wavy, shoulder-length hair.
The films, slated for release in 2028, represent a monumental undertaking – a deep dive into the lives and careers of the Fab Four, each film told through the unique perspective of a band member. This is the first time the full scope of their story, and the rights to their music, have been granted for a scripted film, a testament to the trust placed in director Sam Mendes.
Mendes envisions these films as a “binge-able theatrical experience,” a way to reconnect a generation with the magic of The Beatles and offer a deeper understanding of the individuals behind the music. He believes a grand cinematic approach is essential to draw audiences back to the shared experience of the cinema.
The casting choices, however, haven’t been without debate. While excitement is high, some have questioned the resemblance between the actors and their legendary counterparts. Lennon’s sister, Julia Baird, voiced a preference for lesser-known actors, believing the roles should be a launchpad for emerging talent, particularly from Liverpool itself.
Baird’s comments highlighted a desire to see local actors given the opportunity to portray their hometown heroes, questioning why established names were chosen over those waiting for their big break. She playfully challenged Mescal’s casting, noting his already prominent presence in recent films.
Regardless of the casting discussions, the project itself is a remarkable tribute to a band that redefined popular music. Formed in Liverpool in 1960, The Beatles remain the best-selling musical act of all time, their influence echoing through decades and across generations. These films promise to be more than just a biopic; they are a celebration of a cultural phenomenon.
