Get ready, Beatles fans! James Norton, known for his roles in 'Little Women' and 'Happy Valley,' is reportedly in talks to portray Brian Epstein, the legendary manager of The Beatles, in Sam Mendes' ambitious 'The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event.'
This project is shaping up to be a must-see for music lovers. The four films will each focus on a different member of the iconic band. Previously, it was revealed that Paul Mescal will play Paul McCartney, Barry Keoghan will take on the role of Ringo Starr, Joseph Quinn will embody George Harrison, and Harris Dickinson will become John Lennon. Epstein, a pivotal figure in their story, will appear in all four films. But here's where it gets interesting: we don't yet know the extent of Epstein's role in each individual movie. Will he be a central character, or will his presence be more subtle?
Epstein's impact on The Beatles' trajectory is undeniable. He first encountered the band in 1961 at Liverpool's Cavern Club. Despite having no prior experience managing musicians, Epstein saw their potential and signed them. He then secured them a deal with EMI's Parlophone label, launching them into global stardom. Think about it: a record store manager with no experience, who then became one of the most influential people in music.
Adding to the excitement, Saoirse Ronan, a four-time Academy Award nominee, has been cast as Linda McCartney, Paul McCartney's wife. Linda was a talented photographer, musician, and animal rights activist who gained recognition in the 1960s for her portraits of rock icons like The Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix. She was also the first female photographer to have her work featured on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. She married Paul McCartney in 1969 and later collaborated with him in his post-Beatles band, Wings. She was also a passionate advocate for vegetarianism and animal welfare, and launched her own company, Linda McCartney Foods, in 1991.
Behind the scenes, Jez Butterworth ('Ford v Ferrari'), Peter Straughan ('Conclave'), and Jack Thorne ('Adolescence') are writing the scripts for 'The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event.' It's unclear whether each writer will focus on a single film or collaborate across the entire project.
This project is particularly significant because Apple Corps Ltd. and the surviving Beatles members—Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr—along with the families of John Lennon and George Harrison, have granted full life story and music rights for the first time. Sam Mendes' production company, Neal Street Productions, is partnering with Sony Pictures Entertainment for the films. Mendes will direct all four movies, each delving into the life of a different band member.
What do you think? Are you excited about this cinematic event? Do you have any thoughts on the casting choices, or the potential portrayal of Brian Epstein? Share your opinions in the comments!
