‘Beatles ‘64’: Martin Scorsese to produce new documentary about Fab Four’s first trip to US
The new Disney+ film ‘gives a rare glimpse into when The Beatles became the most influential and beloved band of all time’
A new Martin Scorsese-produced documentary tracking The Beatles’ first trip to the United States is to be released later this year.
Beatles ’64 will premiere on Disney+ on November 29, produced by Scorsese and directed by David Tedeschi.
A synopsis says: “Featuring never-before-seen footage of the band and the legions of young fans who helped fuel their ascendance, the film gives a rare glimpse into when The Beatles became the most influential and beloved band of all time.”
Alongside Scorsese on the film’s list of producers will be Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, John Lennon‘s son Sean and George Harrison‘s widow Olivia among others.
The film’s synopsis adds: “On 7 February 1964, The Beatles arrived in New York City to unprecedented excitement and hysteria. From the instant they landed at Kennedy Airport, met by thousands of fans, Beatlemania swept New York and the entire country.
“Their thrilling debut performance on The Ed Sullivan Show captivated more than 73million viewers, the most watched television event of its time.
“Beatles ’64 presents the spectacle, but also reflects a more intimate behind-the-scenes story, capturing the camaraderie of John, Paul, George, and Ringo as they experienced unimaginable fame.”
The new film joins an extended list of upcoming Beatles-related projects, including four Sam Mendes movies about each member of the Fab Four. The projects will mark the first time that official music and life story rights have been given by Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, the families of George Harrison and John Lennon, and the band’s label Apple Corps, for a scripted film.
The films will see the life stories and routes to fame of each member explored from the members’ perspective, as well as documenting their high-profile post-Beatles careers and personal lives. They are set to be released in 2027.
Paul Mescal will reportedly play McCartney, after his name was originally linked to the role in May. Lennon will reportedly be played by Harris Dickinson, while Barry Keoghan is set to play Starr and Charlie Rowe will portray Harrison. The rumours are yet to be confirmed or denied by Sony, which will be distributing the films.