Director Sam Mendes has assembled a trio of esteemed British screenwriters—Jez Butterworth, Peter Straughan, and Jack Thorne—to pen his forthcoming four-part Beatles biopic series. Each film will delve into the life of a different member of the legendary band: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. The series is slated for theatrical release in April 2028.
This cinematic endeavor marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd., along with surviving Beatles members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison, have authorized a dramatized portrayal of the band’s story. Mendes aims to provide a multifaceted narrative by presenting each member’s perspective, offering audiences a comprehensive look at the band’s journey.
The Writers Behind the Scenes
Jez Butterworth: Known for his work on Spectre and Ford v Ferrari, Butterworth brings a wealth of experience in crafting compelling narratives.
Peter Straughan: An Oscar-winner for Conclave and BAFTA recipient for Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Straughan’s expertise lies in adapting complex stories for the screen.
Jack Thorne: Celebrated for his work on Adolescence and the stage play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Thorne is known for his ability to capture nuanced character studies.
While it’s confirmed that these writers are involved, it’s yet to be disclosed whether each will handle a separate film or collaborate across the series.
Casting the Fab Four
The films will feature:
- Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney
- Harris Dickinson as John Lennon
- Joseph Quinn as George Harrison
- Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr
This casting brings together a group of rising talents to portray the iconic musicians.
Produced by Neal Street Productions in collaboration with Sony Pictures, the series is described as a “four-film cinematic event.” Each movie will interweave to present a cohesive narrative of the Beatles’ legacy. Filming is expected to commence later this year, with all four films scheduled for release in April 2028.
