Beatles casting causes controversy among fans.

In April of 2028, a new series of biopics directed by Sam Mendes and centered around The Beatles is planned for release. Mendes has several well-respected films and plays under his belt, including 1917 and American Beauty. He has also directed a few of the modern James Bond films. His usual directorial genre is a specific but popular niche. Now, many are wondering if he can pull off capturing the artistic essence of The Beatles, something almost opposite of his past projects. 

“His own style is more formalist, understated, and classical,” filmmaker and writer for Indie Film Hustle Cameron Beyl wrote. “Like Kubrick, Mendes is very precise and economical.” 

With this description in mind, it is somewhat difficult to see how Mendes will handle the flowy, messy transition period of the band during the late 1960s to early 1970s.  

His style seems, whether intentionally or not, to follow a trend with modern filmmaking. The stylistic choices of this “trend” include low brightness, less saturation/color, and cool tones. With that in mind, it is questionable how Mendes will handle the bright, warm, and psychedelic tones of the band, especially in their Yellow Submarine era. 

The credibility of Mendes’ directing isn’t what has Beatles fans upset, however. The heart of the controversy lies in casting. 

Paul Mescal is set to play Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn will play George Harrison, Barry Keoghan is Ringo Starr, and Harris Dickinson is John Lennon. The actors are fairly popular, with Barry primarily known for his recent role in Saltburn and Joseph Quinn for his role in the latest season of Stranger Things. Harris Dickinson is still fresh out of his role in Babygirl, while Paul Mescal is best known for starring in Normal People. 

The offense at their casting is not directed at their skills as actors, but rather their familiarity. 

“When I look at the four actors, I do not see John, Paul, Ringo, and George — I see four famous actors who are already known for something else,” said Casey Wells in The Suffolk Journal. 

Wells argues that the casting director, not yet made public, simply picked the most popular, young male actors in current pop culture. She calls them the “popular white boys of the month.”

Her opinion reflects a similar complaint audiences have had for a few years now around the buzz of the film. 

“While these big name actors bring in a large audience, widespread recognition, and lots of money, we’re missing out on the chance to see new, talented faces who have so much to offer,” said Kaitlyn Page in Jerk Magazine. 

Clearly there is a disconnect between Hollywood’s decisions and what viewers want to see. But, no matter what, these actors will no doubt bring in many fans and hit its young target audience. 

The film is not devoid of potential, and the cast could surprise critics with their ability to take on these iconic musicians. Additionally, AP News reported that both Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, as well as the families of George Harrison and John Lennon, have granted full music and life rights to the film. 

It’s apparent that the pressure placed upon the leading cast will be strong. Both fans and critics are anxiously waiting to see if all four can live up to their task. No matter how well their roles are taken by audiences, there is no doubt that they’ll be working hard to represent the Fab Four.

Article by Story Frazier-Maskiell