First Look: Mescal, Keoghan, Dickinson & Quinn Transform into The Beatles
First Look: Actors as The Beatles in Mendes Films

First Glimpse of Star-Studded Cast as Iconic Fab Four

Fans have been treated to their inaugural look at the highly anticipated cinematic portrayal of The Beatles, with Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan, Harris Dickinson and Joseph Quinn fully transformed into the legendary band members. The exclusive images have surfaced through an innovative marketing campaign orchestrated by studio Sony, generating considerable buzz and debate among enthusiasts.

Ambitious Four-Film Project Takes Shape

Visionary director Sam Mendes is helming an unprecedented quartet of films, each focusing intently on a specific member of the iconic group. The ambitious project casts Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. All four cinematic explorations are currently slated for simultaneous release on 7 April 2028, promising a comprehensive examination of the band's legacy.

Creative Marketing Campaign at Liverpool Institute

In a clever promotional strategy, Sony produced four distinct postcards featuring the principal cast in character and discreetly distributed them throughout the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts (LIPA). This institution holds particular significance as it was co-founded by Paul McCartney himself. The official LIPA Instagram account enthusiastically shared the initiative, stating: "We've been given exclusive postcards promoting the new Beatles movies! We've hidden them around LIPA, and we want students to find them."

Mixed Reactions from Devoted Fanbase

Initial responses to the revealed images have been decidedly varied across social media platforms. Many commentators expressed strong admiration for Paul Mescal's embodiment of McCartney, with one enthusiast remarking: "I thought that was actually Paul. Mescal really nailed the look! Wow." Another supporter noted on X: "Paul Mescal really captures that McCartney vibe in these first-look shots. Looking forward to seeing how the full cast comes together in the biopics."

However, not all feedback has been positive, with particular scrutiny directed at Joseph Quinn's casting as George Harrison. Some vocal critics have called for immediate recasting, while others have humorously suggested his appearance more closely resembles Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante. More measured voices have urged patience, advising fans to reserve judgement until the completed films reveal each actor's full performance.

Production Underway with Stellar Supporting Cast

Filming has officially commenced on this landmark project, which brings together some of the most sought-after acting talents of their generation. The production represents a historic milestone as the first scripted films to receive official rights to The Beatles' life stories and musical catalogue.

The principal quartet will be supported by an impressive ensemble including:

  • Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney
  • James Norton as Brian Epstein
  • Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono
  • Aimee Lou Wood as Pattie Boyd
  • Harry Lloyd as George Martin
  • Mia McKenna-Bruce as Maureen Starkey

Mendes' Vision for Historical Storytelling

Last year, director Sam Mendes elaborated on his unique approach to this monumental project, drawing parallels with his previous documentary work. He explained in The Times: "As a film-maker, one is always looking to find new ways to look at the past. To turn historical events so they catch the light in new and different ways. My film 1917 was an attempt to do this. The Beatles films we are making now also fall into this category. And here again I felt the same portal to the past had been opened."

This ambitious cinematic undertaking promises to offer fresh perspectives on one of music history's most celebrated groups, combining innovative storytelling with meticulous period recreation. As production progresses, anticipation continues to build for what could become a definitive portrayal of The Beatles' extraordinary journey.