Beatles movies were designed to heighten the band’s popularity, while giving their ravished fans even more to digest. The first two are cleverly packed with antics, fun and superb musical performances. Both of these films are timeless and easily accessible by all.
A Hard Day's Night
A Hard Day’s Night (1964) came out at the height of Beatlemania after the Beatles’ first appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show. John Lennon was especially impressed with Richard Lester’s short film made with Peter Sellers. Lester incorporates a French New Wave style, which is complimented by the Fab Four’s youthful energy, cheeky deliveries and comedic gags. A Hard Day’s Night even wowed the critics of the day, who were fully prepared to discredit it as a mere pop fad.
Help!
Help! (1965) is also directed by Richard Lester and is shot in color. The Beatles follow-up movie has slightly more plot and is even zanier than the first. Luckily, it is still conforms to the tongue-in-cheek spirit of A Hard Day’s Night. There is a notable maturity in the music and also in their general demeanor. The larger budget allowed for many locations to be shot, which adds to the adventure. Help! is a wonderful romp with John, Paul, George and Ringo.
Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience. Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.
