The Beatles Biopic Adventures to Debut in 2028 with All-Star Cast

LAS VEGAS, Nevada — Sony Pictures has officially unveiled a groundbreaking Beatles biopic project at CinemaCon on March 31, 2025, featuring an all-star cast of actors to portray the legendary band members Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. This ambitious venture, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sam Mendes, promises to deliver a unique cinematic experience through a series of four interconnected films, set to premiere in April 2028.

The casting announcement included Paul Mescal as McCartney, Harris Dickinson as Lennon, Joseph Quinn as Harrison, and Barry Keoghan as Starr. Mendes expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I’ve been trying to make a story about The Beatles for years.” This series aims to provide not only a look into the band’s history but also a depth of understanding of each member’s personal journey.

Director Mendes described the project as “the first binge-able theatrical experience,” reflecting the current trend in Hollywood where studios are seeking to attract audiences back to theaters following significant declines in box office performance. He highlighted the aim of intersecting each member’s individual storylines, providing a multifaceted perspective on the Beatles’ legacy. “They’re four very different human beings,” he remarked, emphasizing the unique storytelling approach.

The Beatles, often regarded as the most significant band of all time, have a cultural legacy that continues to resonate. Mendes remarked, “The Beatles redefined the culture and stayed with you for a lifetime.” By securing full rights from the band and their estates, this project marks a historic moment as it explores stories that have yet to be extensively covered.

Audience engagement is expected to be high given the actors’ recent popularity, particularly Mescal, who gained recognition for his performances in “Normal People” and “Aftersun.” Similarly, Keoghan’s rising status from roles in projects such as “The Banshees of Inisherin” adds to the excitement. Dickinson and Quinn have also started to garner attention for their recent works, with roles that resonate with younger audiences.

During the presentation, the cast recited lines from the song “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” setting an upbeat tone for the evening. This performance further underlined the nostalgic connection to the Beatles, especially among attendees who are part of a generation familiar with the band’s immense influence on music and popular culture.

Despite the excitement, challenges remain for the film industry as it continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Box office sales are down 11% compared to 2024 and nearly 40% since 2019, indicating a pressing need for compelling cinematic events to draw audiences back. Mendes noted, “Frankly, we need big cinematic events to get people out of the house.”

The Beatles biopics hope to bridge the gap between generations, appealing not only to long-time fans but also to newer audiences who may not have the same nostalgic connection. By tapping into the characters of today’s “internet boyfriends,” the films aim to capture attention on social media and encourage younger viewers to engage more broadly with the Beatles’ legacy.

As production continues towards the planned 2028 release date, anticipation builds not only for the films themselves but also for their potential impact on the future of theatrical releases in an ever-changing landscape. Mendes insists that this is an opportunity to explore the depths of the Beatles’ story, presenting it in a format that resonates with current viewing trends.