In an exciting development for film and music enthusiasts, the first official stills from Sam Mendes' highly anticipated four-part Beatles cinematic project have been released. The images, showcasing the principal cast in character as the legendary Fab Four, were distributed in a uniquely creative manner that pays homage to the band's roots.
A Creative Unveiling in Liverpool
The reveal took place at the historic Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA), the performing arts school co-founded by Sir Paul McCartney himself. In a clever marketing move, limited edition numbered postcards featuring the actors were secretly placed around the school's buildings, with students encouraged to seek them out as a treasure hunt. These exclusive collectibles were subsequently shared on the official LIPA Instagram account, generating significant buzz online.
Meet the Cast in Character
The postcards offer a fascinating first glimpse at how the acclaimed actors have transformed into the iconic musicians. Paul Mescal, portraying a young Paul McCartney, is seen in a sharp suit and period-appropriate haircut, seemingly positioned in a recreation of the famous Cavern Club where The Beatles honed their craft.
Harris Dickinson embodies John Lennon, complete with the distinctive round "granny" glasses that Lennon famously adopted after wearing them during the filming of How I Won the War in 1967. Joseph Quinn takes on the role of George Harrison, featuring the long hair and beard that characterised Harrison's look towards the latter part of the band's career.
Completing the lineup, Barry Keoghan appears as Ringo Starr, sporting a pirate-style beard and a playful polka dot shirt, capturing Starr's unique style and persona.
Project Details and Anticipated Release
Sam Mendes, the Oscar-winning director behind films such as 1917 and Skyfall, officially announced this ambitious project in 2024. Currently titled The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event, the series promises an unprecedented deep dive into the band's story. All four films are scheduled for a simultaneous global release in April 2028, marking a significant event in cinematic history.
The choice of LIPA as the location for this first reveal is deeply symbolic. The school occupies the former premises of the Liverpool Institute High School for Boys, where both Paul McCartney and George Harrison were educated, adding an authentic layer of connection to the project's narrative and setting.