When The Beatles first landed in America in early 1964, they undertook a journey that changed our world as we knew it. Concert appearances, TV shows, and cheeky press conferences marked their path as they traversed from New York to Miami, whipping teenage girls into a symphony of screams wherever they went.
The powerful documentary "Beatles '64" revisits this significant crossing, shedding new light on an era often viewed through a mythical lens. With the renowned Martin Scorsesh and David Tedeschi at its helm, the film premieres on Nov. 29 on Disney+ using unseen footage from David and Albert Maysles' 1964 documentary "What’s Happening! The Beatles in the U.S.A.”
The restored 16mm footage offers a refreshing glance at the Beatles' journey. It portrays their offstage life in their Plaza Hotel suite, interactions with fans, and hectic schedule with an unforeseen realism, turning clichéd Beatlemania images into intimate portraits of both the band and their fans.
The film also stands out with its eye-opening commentary by prominent figures such as David Lynch, Smokey Robinson, and the Beatles themselves in latter-day interviews. It paints a vivid picture of the Beatles' impact on societal norms, pop-music culture, and perceptions of masculinity, throwing into sharp relief the collective affinity for the Beatles.
"Beatles '64" offers rare glimpses of the Beatles at home in the eye of the media storm, humanizing them and showing the beginnings of their transformation from gritty Liverpool musicians to once-in-a-century artists.
The remastered live performances give the film an added vibrancy, uncovering a new ardor the Beatles' music instills. The Maysles' insightful coverage of the public's reaction to the Beatles offers the viewers a candid view of the cultural revolution the band ignited.
"Beatles '64" showcases how The Beatles injected joy into the world while maintaining their humility and musical fervor. Their magical journey, culminating in a profound commentary by John Lennon, offers insight into the universal appeal and enduring legacy of the Beatles' joy.
