Martin Scorsese is expanding his music documentary empire to include The Beatles.
Disney+ feature “Beatles ’64” is directed by David Tedeschi, with Scorsese producing. The film centers on the iconic British band’s first visit to America, which began the stateside phenomenon of Beatlemania.
The official synopsis reads: “On February 7, 1964, The Beatles arrived in New York City to unprecedented excitement and hysteria. From the instant they landed at Kennedy Airport, met by thousands of fans, Beatlemania swept New York and the entire country. Their thrilling debut performance on ‘The Ed Sullivan Show’ captivated more than 73 million viewers, the most watched television event of its time. ‘Beatles ’64’ presents the spectacle, but also tells a more intimate behind the scenes story, capturing the camaraderie of John, Paul, George, and Ringo as they experienced unimaginable fame.”
“Beatles ’64” includes never-before-seen footage, which was filmed by pioneering documentarians Albert and David Maysles. The clips were restored...
Disney+ feature “Beatles ’64” is directed by David Tedeschi, with Scorsese producing. The film centers on the iconic British band’s first visit to America, which began the stateside phenomenon of Beatlemania.
The official synopsis reads: “On February 7, 1964, The Beatles arrived in New York City to unprecedented excitement and hysteria. From the instant they landed at Kennedy Airport, met by thousands of fans, Beatlemania swept New York and the entire country. Their thrilling debut performance on ‘The Ed Sullivan Show’ captivated more than 73 million viewers, the most watched television event of its time. ‘Beatles ’64’ presents the spectacle, but also tells a more intimate behind the scenes story, capturing the camaraderie of John, Paul, George, and Ringo as they experienced unimaginable fame.”
“Beatles ’64” includes never-before-seen footage, which was filmed by pioneering documentarians Albert and David Maysles. The clips were restored...
- 11/14/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
It’s one last waltz for Robbie and Marty.
Variety reports that Martin Scorsese is directing the filming of a tribute concert dedicated to his late friend and collaborator Robbie Robertson for a concert film. The Blackbird Presents (Outlaw Music Festival)-produced concert, called “Life Is a Carnival: A Musical Celebration of Robbie Robertson,” will take place Thursday at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. Plans for the release of the future film have not been set.
Robertson, the legendary musician and songwriter best known for his work with the legendary roots rock outfit The Band, died in 2023 at age 80. His relationship with Scorsese went back to the 1970s, when Scorsese directed “The Last Waltz,” the 1978 star-studded concert film commemorating The Band’s final performance. Robertson then worked as a composer, music supervisor, or consultant on many of Scorsese’s films, including “Raging Bull,” “The Color of Money,” “Casino,” and “The Irishman.
Variety reports that Martin Scorsese is directing the filming of a tribute concert dedicated to his late friend and collaborator Robbie Robertson for a concert film. The Blackbird Presents (Outlaw Music Festival)-produced concert, called “Life Is a Carnival: A Musical Celebration of Robbie Robertson,” will take place Thursday at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. Plans for the release of the future film have not been set.
Robertson, the legendary musician and songwriter best known for his work with the legendary roots rock outfit The Band, died in 2023 at age 80. His relationship with Scorsese went back to the 1970s, when Scorsese directed “The Last Waltz,” the 1978 star-studded concert film commemorating The Band’s final performance. Robertson then worked as a composer, music supervisor, or consultant on many of Scorsese’s films, including “Raging Bull,” “The Color of Money,” “Casino,” and “The Irishman.
- 10/16/2024
- by Liam Mathews
- Gold Derby
A new Beatles documentary from producer Martin Scorsese and director David Tedeschi has been set for premiere on Disney+ on November 29th.
Titled Beatles ’64, the film will feature never-before-seen footage of the band’s first trip to the United States in February 1964, shot by documentarians Albert and David Maysles. Promising to tell “a more intimate behind the scenes story” of their breakout performance on The Ed Sullivan Show, it includes new interviews with surviving Beatles members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr — both of whom also co-produced.
Get Paul McCartney Tickets Here
This isn’t Scorsese’s first Beatles documentary. In 2011, he helmed George Harrison: Living in the Material World, which traced the guitarist’s life from his early days in Liverpool to his travels to India.
One week before the documentary, a box set titled The Beatles: 1964 U.S. Albums in Mono will be released, featuring seven Beatles album reissues...
Titled Beatles ’64, the film will feature never-before-seen footage of the band’s first trip to the United States in February 1964, shot by documentarians Albert and David Maysles. Promising to tell “a more intimate behind the scenes story” of their breakout performance on The Ed Sullivan Show, it includes new interviews with surviving Beatles members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr — both of whom also co-produced.
Get Paul McCartney Tickets Here
This isn’t Scorsese’s first Beatles documentary. In 2011, he helmed George Harrison: Living in the Material World, which traced the guitarist’s life from his early days in Liverpool to his travels to India.
One week before the documentary, a box set titled The Beatles: 1964 U.S. Albums in Mono will be released, featuring seven Beatles album reissues...
- 10/14/2024
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Film News
A new Beatles documentary from producer Martin Scorsese and director David Tedeschi has been set for premiere on Disney+ on November 29th.
Titled Beatles ’64, the film will feature never-before-seen footage of the band’s first trip to the United States in February 1964, shot by documentarians Albert and David Maysles. Promising to tell “a more intimate behind the scenes story” of their breakout performance on The Ed Sullivan Show, it includes new interviews with surviving Beatles members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr — both of whom also co-produced.
Get Paul McCartney Tickets Here
This isn’t Scorsese’s first Beatles documentary. In 2011, he helmed George Harrison: Living in the Material World, which traced the guitarist’s life from his early days in Liverpool to his travels to India.
One week before the documentary, a box set titled The Beatles: 1964 U.S. Albums in Mono will be released, featuring seven Beatles album reissues...
Titled Beatles ’64, the film will feature never-before-seen footage of the band’s first trip to the United States in February 1964, shot by documentarians Albert and David Maysles. Promising to tell “a more intimate behind the scenes story” of their breakout performance on The Ed Sullivan Show, it includes new interviews with surviving Beatles members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr — both of whom also co-produced.
Get Paul McCartney Tickets Here
This isn’t Scorsese’s first Beatles documentary. In 2011, he helmed George Harrison: Living in the Material World, which traced the guitarist’s life from his early days in Liverpool to his travels to India.
One week before the documentary, a box set titled The Beatles: 1964 U.S. Albums in Mono will be released, featuring seven Beatles album reissues...
- 10/14/2024
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Music
Martin Scorsese is producing a new Disney+ documentary that chronicles The Beatles’ first trip to the U.S. in 1964. The documentary, aptly dubbed “Beatles ’64,” will hit Disney+ on Nov. 29, the streamer announced Monday.
Directed by Scorsese collaborator David Tedeschi, “Beatles ’64” will look at the rise of Beatlemania in the States, with recently unearthed behind-the-scenes footage and new interviews from Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney.
“Beatles ’64” will follow The Fab Four — McCartney, Starr, John Lennon and George Harrison — from the first moment they landed in New York City on Feb. 7, 1964, just two days before 73 million people watched them perform on “The Ed Sullivan Show.”
Footage from that historic performance, as well as the group’s first American show in Washington, D.C., will be mixed among clips that show a “more intimate behind the scenes story,” according to a press release from the band.
Scorsese is, of course, no stranger to music or Beatles-related documentaries.
Directed by Scorsese collaborator David Tedeschi, “Beatles ’64” will look at the rise of Beatlemania in the States, with recently unearthed behind-the-scenes footage and new interviews from Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney.
“Beatles ’64” will follow The Fab Four — McCartney, Starr, John Lennon and George Harrison — from the first moment they landed in New York City on Feb. 7, 1964, just two days before 73 million people watched them perform on “The Ed Sullivan Show.”
Footage from that historic performance, as well as the group’s first American show in Washington, D.C., will be mixed among clips that show a “more intimate behind the scenes story,” according to a press release from the band.
Scorsese is, of course, no stranger to music or Beatles-related documentaries.
- 10/14/2024
- by Sean Burch
- The Wrap
The Beatles’ 1964 trip to America will be chronicled in a new documentary from producer Martin Scorsese and director David Tedeschi.
Titled “Beatles ’64,” the film will be released on Disney+ on Nov. 29 and features never-before-seen footage of the band and its legions of young fans during the height of Beatlemania. It also includes new interviews with the two surviving Beatles, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr.
The doc follows McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Starr as they land in New York City in February 1964 and solidify their status as the biggest band in the world. “Beatles ’64” promises to tell “a more intimate behind the scenes story” of the Fab Four as they debut on “The Ed Sullivan Show” to more than 73 million viewers, which back then was the most-watched television event of all time.
“Beatles ’64” features rare footage filmed by documentarians Albert and David Maysles, restored in 4K by Park Road Post in New Zealand.
Titled “Beatles ’64,” the film will be released on Disney+ on Nov. 29 and features never-before-seen footage of the band and its legions of young fans during the height of Beatlemania. It also includes new interviews with the two surviving Beatles, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr.
The doc follows McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Starr as they land in New York City in February 1964 and solidify their status as the biggest band in the world. “Beatles ’64” promises to tell “a more intimate behind the scenes story” of the Fab Four as they debut on “The Ed Sullivan Show” to more than 73 million viewers, which back then was the most-watched television event of all time.
“Beatles ’64” features rare footage filmed by documentarians Albert and David Maysles, restored in 4K by Park Road Post in New Zealand.
- 10/14/2024
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
“Jim Henson Idea Man” premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on May 18 ahead of its worldwide premiere on Disney+ on May 31, just in time to qualify for the 2024 Emmys. The film ultimately racked up eight nominations and leads our racetrack odds for Best Documentary or Nonfiction Special based on the combined predictions of Gold Derby users. But not everyone agrees with that consensus. The Expert journalists we’ve surveyed from major media outlets think differently.
Helmed by Oscar winner Ron Howard, “Idea Man” chronicles the life and career of Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets. It’s the most nominated film in its Emmy race, with bids for its cinematography, directing, picture editing, music composition, sound editing, sound mixing and writing in addition to its nom in the top category. It’s backed by five out of 11 Gold Derby Editors, 21 of our Top 24 Users and 20 of our All-Star Top 24, giving...
Helmed by Oscar winner Ron Howard, “Idea Man” chronicles the life and career of Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets. It’s the most nominated film in its Emmy race, with bids for its cinematography, directing, picture editing, music composition, sound editing, sound mixing and writing in addition to its nom in the top category. It’s backed by five out of 11 Gold Derby Editors, 21 of our Top 24 Users and 20 of our All-Star Top 24, giving...
- 8/21/2024
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Nine years after “The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst” won the Emmy for Best Documentary Series, its previously unplanned second season is up for the same award. Unlike last time when it stood out as the only crime series in its lineup, it is now joined in that regard by both “Telemarketers” and “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV.”
Unlike most Primetime Emmys, Best Documentary Series is a non-competitive area award that is bestowed upon any nominee that earns the approval of 90% of the members of the TV academy’s documentary peer group. This means that the five programs in the 2024 lineup are not vying for a single trophy and could all potentially prevail. However, if no nominees hit said 90% threshold, only the highest-rated one will win.
In order to determine which of this year’s nominees has the best shot at being approved for victory,...
Unlike most Primetime Emmys, Best Documentary Series is a non-competitive area award that is bestowed upon any nominee that earns the approval of 90% of the members of the TV academy’s documentary peer group. This means that the five programs in the 2024 lineup are not vying for a single trophy and could all potentially prevail. However, if no nominees hit said 90% threshold, only the highest-rated one will win.
In order to determine which of this year’s nominees has the best shot at being approved for victory,...
- 8/13/2024
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
The Beatles rose to prominence in tandem with the hippie movement. Their 1967 album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club featured psychedelic imagery and linked the band to the countercultural movement. According to those who knew the band, though, they could not stand hippies. George Harrison’s wife, Pattie Boyd, spoke about how the band felt about the youth movement.
The Beatles did not like hippies
The Beatles’ later albums reflected changing social trends in the 1960s, and the band members’ appearances shifted as well. While they seemed to fit in with the hippie movement in some ways, Boyd said the band did not like it.
“That whole hippie movement, which by the way, The Beatles found disgusting,” she said in the book All You Need Is Love: The Beatles In Their Own Words by Peter Brown and Steven Gaines. “I think the hippie movement … I went to Haight-Ashbury with George.
The Beatles did not like hippies
The Beatles’ later albums reflected changing social trends in the 1960s, and the band members’ appearances shifted as well. While they seemed to fit in with the hippie movement in some ways, Boyd said the band did not like it.
“That whole hippie movement, which by the way, The Beatles found disgusting,” she said in the book All You Need Is Love: The Beatles In Their Own Words by Peter Brown and Steven Gaines. “I think the hippie movement … I went to Haight-Ashbury with George.
- 7/4/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
As Oppenheimer hit screens during the actors’ strike this summer, Robert Downey Jr. was not able to attend the premiere or promote the film. Instead, he screened the movie in the Hamptons. Downey Jr. sat next to Paul McCartney and was so starstruck that he couldn’t pay attention to what was happening on screen.
Robert Downey Jr. was completely starstruck by Paul McCartney
Downey Jr. could not attend the premiere for Oppenheimer due to the actors’ strike. Instead, he hosted a small premiere in the Hamptons and invited everyone he knew who was staying in the area.
“I invited everyone who was in the Hamptons,” he said on Jimmy Kimmel Live, “and for the first time in my whole career, strangely, everyone RSVP’d.”
Paul McCartney | Jim Dyson/WireImage
Many celebrities attended, but Downey Jr. was the most starstruck by McCartney, who sat next to him during the screening.
Robert Downey Jr. was completely starstruck by Paul McCartney
Downey Jr. could not attend the premiere for Oppenheimer due to the actors’ strike. Instead, he hosted a small premiere in the Hamptons and invited everyone he knew who was staying in the area.
“I invited everyone who was in the Hamptons,” he said on Jimmy Kimmel Live, “and for the first time in my whole career, strangely, everyone RSVP’d.”
Paul McCartney | Jim Dyson/WireImage
Many celebrities attended, but Downey Jr. was the most starstruck by McCartney, who sat next to him during the screening.
- 1/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Producers Guild of America (PGA) has officially kicked off the announcements for the 35th annual Producers Guild Awards on Thursday, December 7 with the news that Academy Award-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese will receive the 2024 David O. Selznick Achievement Award for his breadth of achievements in producing over the course his career, which has lasted over six decades. He will accept the honor at the 2024 PGA Awards taking place on Sunday, February 25, 2024.
In addition to last year’s winner Tom Cruise, the prestigious David O. Selznick Achievement Award highlighting a producer’s outstanding body of work in motion pictures has gone to directors Steven Spielberg, Frank Marshall, and George Lucas, as well as people at the top of the profession like Barbara Broccoli, Mary Parent, Brian Grazer, and Kathleen Kennedy.
“Marty’s trailblazing career as a producer, marked by decades of bold, breakthrough projects, demands to be celebrated,” said PGA presidents...
In addition to last year’s winner Tom Cruise, the prestigious David O. Selznick Achievement Award highlighting a producer’s outstanding body of work in motion pictures has gone to directors Steven Spielberg, Frank Marshall, and George Lucas, as well as people at the top of the profession like Barbara Broccoli, Mary Parent, Brian Grazer, and Kathleen Kennedy.
“Marty’s trailblazing career as a producer, marked by decades of bold, breakthrough projects, demands to be celebrated,” said PGA presidents...
- 12/7/2023
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
The Killers Of The Flower Moon producer, director, and co-writer will accept award at the 35th annual PGA Awards on February 25.
The Producers Guild of America (PGA) will present Martin Scorsese with the 2024 David O. Selznick Achievement Award for his “monumental achievements in more than six decades of producing”.
The Killers Of The Flower Moon producer, director, and co-writer will accept the award at the 35th Annual Producers Guild Awards on Sunday, February 25.
The David O. Selznick Achievement Award recognises producers for their “outstanding body of work in motion pictures” and prior recipients include Steven Spielberg, Barbara Broccoli, Mary Parent,...
The Producers Guild of America (PGA) will present Martin Scorsese with the 2024 David O. Selznick Achievement Award for his “monumental achievements in more than six decades of producing”.
The Killers Of The Flower Moon producer, director, and co-writer will accept the award at the 35th Annual Producers Guild Awards on Sunday, February 25.
The David O. Selznick Achievement Award recognises producers for their “outstanding body of work in motion pictures” and prior recipients include Steven Spielberg, Barbara Broccoli, Mary Parent,...
- 12/7/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The Producers Guild of America has announced Martin Scorsese as the recipient of the David O. Selznick Achievement Award for his six decades of producing. Scorsese will accept the honor at the PGA Awards on Feb. 25.
The David O. Selznick Achievement Awards recognizes producers for their outstanding body of work in motion pictures, with previous honorees including Steven Spielberg, Barbara Broccoli, Mary Parent, Tom Cruise, Brian Grazer, Frank Marshall, Kathleen Kennedy, and George Lucas.
“Marty’s trailblazing career as a producer, marked by decades of bold, breakthrough projects, demands to be celebrated,”said PGA Presidents Donald De Line and Stephanie Allain in a statement. “His mastery and unwavering commitment to the craft are truly unparalleled. We are proud to honor him and his many filmmaking achievements this year at the PGA Awards.”
Scorsese said, “In March 1965, I was flown out to Los Angeles by the PGA to receive an award...
The David O. Selznick Achievement Awards recognizes producers for their outstanding body of work in motion pictures, with previous honorees including Steven Spielberg, Barbara Broccoli, Mary Parent, Tom Cruise, Brian Grazer, Frank Marshall, Kathleen Kennedy, and George Lucas.
“Marty’s trailblazing career as a producer, marked by decades of bold, breakthrough projects, demands to be celebrated,”said PGA Presidents Donald De Line and Stephanie Allain in a statement. “His mastery and unwavering commitment to the craft are truly unparalleled. We are proud to honor him and his many filmmaking achievements this year at the PGA Awards.”
Scorsese said, “In March 1965, I was flown out to Los Angeles by the PGA to receive an award...
- 12/7/2023
- by Pat Saperstein
- Variety Film + TV
John Lennon made his name as a musician, but a friend said that he had early aspirations of success as an actor. Lennon realized this dream to some extent; he acted in films with The Beatles and took a handful of minor roles in other films. At no point did it seem that acting was his primary interest. According to a musician friend, though, Lennon dreamed of becoming an actor.
John Lennon had dreams of becoming an actor
In the early 1960s, Lennon met Cilla Black, another musician managed by The Beatles’ Brian Epstein. According to Black, Lennon had dreams of being an actor, even as The Beatles were rising to success.
“He talked about his songs, but the memory which stands out is the way he admitted he longed to become a famous actor one day,” Black said in the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman.
This may seem surprising,...
John Lennon had dreams of becoming an actor
In the early 1960s, Lennon met Cilla Black, another musician managed by The Beatles’ Brian Epstein. According to Black, Lennon had dreams of being an actor, even as The Beatles were rising to success.
“He talked about his songs, but the memory which stands out is the way he admitted he longed to become a famous actor one day,” Black said in the book Lennon: The Definitive Biography by Ray Coleman.
This may seem surprising,...
- 9/25/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When The Beatles broke up, George Harrison often spoke about how difficult it was to work with Paul McCartney. He believed his bandmate was demanding, controlling, and overly self-involved. This analysis hurt McCartney’s feelings, but years later, he realized there was some truth to them. While Harrison, McCartney, and Ringo Starr worked on The Beatles Anthology, McCartney realized he had been bossy while working with the band.
Paul McCartney realized he’d been bossy while working on ‘The Beatles Anthology’
While working on The Beatles Anthology, a multimedia project that reflected on the history of The Beatles, McCartney had plenty of time to think about his past. In listening to his music and running over memories with Harrison and Starr, McCartney realized he’d been a touch bossy.
“That’s the difficulty of a group. You are not the director bossing around a dance company where they naturally expect you to boss them around,...
Paul McCartney realized he’d been bossy while working on ‘The Beatles Anthology’
While working on The Beatles Anthology, a multimedia project that reflected on the history of The Beatles, McCartney had plenty of time to think about his past. In listening to his music and running over memories with Harrison and Starr, McCartney realized he’d been a touch bossy.
“That’s the difficulty of a group. You are not the director bossing around a dance company where they naturally expect you to boss them around,...
- 8/28/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles‘ “Octopus’s Garden” is one of the most famous songs Ringo Starr wrote. George Harrison helped him write the track. Despite this, George said the tune was entirely Ringo’s.
What Ringo Starr and George Harrison said about The Beatles’ ‘Octopus’s Garden’
During a 2023 interview with Vulture, Ringo was asked what it was like for him to view the scene in the documentary The Beatles: Get Back where George helps him write “Octopus’s Garden.” “It’s emotional for me to watch,” he revealed. “The first time I watched that scene … well, I can play any song you’d like as long as it’s in C on the piano. Keep that in mind.”
Ringo gave fans more insight into the way the tune came together. “I got a few of those verses, and when I went back to the studio — because it was in C — George...
What Ringo Starr and George Harrison said about The Beatles’ ‘Octopus’s Garden’
During a 2023 interview with Vulture, Ringo was asked what it was like for him to view the scene in the documentary The Beatles: Get Back where George helps him write “Octopus’s Garden.” “It’s emotional for me to watch,” he revealed. “The first time I watched that scene … well, I can play any song you’d like as long as it’s in C on the piano. Keep that in mind.”
Ringo gave fans more insight into the way the tune came together. “I got a few of those verses, and when I went back to the studio — because it was in C — George...
- 8/14/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
George Harrison’s son, Dhani, grew up surrounded by legendary musicians. Harrison had many friends in the industry who would visit often, and Dhani got to know many stars that the average person could only dream of meeting. Reflecting on his childhood, Dhani said it was “mindbending” to see so many rock stars just casually hanging out in his house.
George Harrison’s son hung out with many rock stars at his home George Harrison | C Flanigan/WireImage for Kaaboo Del Mar via imageSPACE
George Harrison was friends with many classic rock stars. In addition to the other members of The Beatles, Harrison was also close with the members of The Traveling Wilburys, which included Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, and Jeff Lynne. He was also close friends with guitarist Eric Clapton.
Since he worked closely with these excellent musicians, they often recorded and rehearsed at his home studio.
George Harrison’s son hung out with many rock stars at his home George Harrison | C Flanigan/WireImage for Kaaboo Del Mar via imageSPACE
George Harrison was friends with many classic rock stars. In addition to the other members of The Beatles, Harrison was also close with the members of The Traveling Wilburys, which included Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, and Jeff Lynne. He was also close friends with guitarist Eric Clapton.
Since he worked closely with these excellent musicians, they often recorded and rehearsed at his home studio.
- 6/9/2023
- by Ross Tanenbaum
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
All of The Beatles processed John Lennon’s death in different ways. Paul McCartney had a tough time discussing it and initially called it a “drag,” while Ringo Starr left his trip in the Bahamas to fly to New York to be with Yoko Ono. The news crushed George Harrison, but instead of grieving in silence, the former Beatledecided to record music.
George Harrison believed recording music after John Lennon’s death would be ‘therapeutic’ John Lennon and George Harrison | Keystone Features/Getty Images
John Lennon was fatally shot outside his New York City apartment on Dec. 8, 1980. The news stunned the world as many networks and broadcasts stopped what they were doing to announce his death. Harrison was set to record music for his upcoming album, Somewhere in England.
When he heard the news, many believed he would postpone the session to another day. However, drummer Dave Mattacks said Harrison...
George Harrison believed recording music after John Lennon’s death would be ‘therapeutic’ John Lennon and George Harrison | Keystone Features/Getty Images
John Lennon was fatally shot outside his New York City apartment on Dec. 8, 1980. The news stunned the world as many networks and broadcasts stopped what they were doing to announce his death. Harrison was set to record music for his upcoming album, Somewhere in England.
When he heard the news, many believed he would postpone the session to another day. However, drummer Dave Mattacks said Harrison...
- 5/5/2023
- by Ross Tanenbaum
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tuesday, April 25, Showtime hosted the FYC event for the documentary “Personality Crisis: One Night Only.” The screening, panel and reception were held at the Linwood Dunn Theater in Los Angeles. Panel participants from the film included: Director and Producer Martin Scorsese, Director and Editor David Tedeschi, the one and only David Johansen, Producer Margaret Bodde, Executive Producer Mara Hennessey, and film interviewer Leah Hennessey. The conversation was moderated by Cynthia Littleton, Variety Editor-in-Chief.
“It was shockingly good,” Johansen said of the film about him. “I especially liked the fact that I didn’t die at the end. A lot of people, when they do documentaries about music, they ask me to be in them and I normally refuse because it’s the most horrible thing to have an opinion one day and then two years later see it in a film. Because, evolution and transcendence and all that jazz, you...
“It was shockingly good,” Johansen said of the film about him. “I especially liked the fact that I didn’t die at the end. A lot of people, when they do documentaries about music, they ask me to be in them and I normally refuse because it’s the most horrible thing to have an opinion one day and then two years later see it in a film. Because, evolution and transcendence and all that jazz, you...
- 4/27/2023
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
The world was shocked to hear the news of John Lennon’s death in 1980. Each member of The Beatles had a different reaction to the news, as they never expected to lose their bandmate and friend so soon. Ringo Starr was on vacation when he heard John Lennon was shot, and he immediately abandoned his trip to be with Lennon’s wife, Yoko Ono.
Ringo Starr left his vacation after John Lennon was killed Ringo Starr and Yoko Ono | Rick Diamond/WireImage
On Dec. 8, 1980, Lennon was shot and killed just outside his apartment building in New York City. The former Beatle lived in New York with Ono, and their son, Sean Lennon. The news broke worldwide soon after, and tributes to the “Imagine” singer began emerging. The Beatles’ former drummer Starr was on vacation in the Bahamas at the time. In an interview with Howard Stern, Starr said he quickly...
Ringo Starr left his vacation after John Lennon was killed Ringo Starr and Yoko Ono | Rick Diamond/WireImage
On Dec. 8, 1980, Lennon was shot and killed just outside his apartment building in New York City. The former Beatle lived in New York with Ono, and their son, Sean Lennon. The news broke worldwide soon after, and tributes to the “Imagine” singer began emerging. The Beatles’ former drummer Starr was on vacation in the Bahamas at the time. In an interview with Howard Stern, Starr said he quickly...
- 4/26/2023
- by Ross Tanenbaum
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
George Harrison and Eric Idle were close friends, and Idle said he learned a lot from the former Beatle. Harrison’s devoted interest in spirituality caused him to think a lot about purpose, death, and the afterlife, which Idle said gave him a unique perspective on fame. It also added a bit of morbidity to the conversations he had with others. According to Idle, Harrison was constantly talking about how everyone was going to die.
George Harrison | Sonia Moskowitz/Images/Getty Images Eric Idle and George Harrison met at a movie premiere
Harrison and Idle met at the premiere of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Harrison specifically sought out Idle, which was a bit stressful for the actor.
George with Olivia, @EricIdle and @TerryGilliam at the US premiere of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail", 1975
?: Jim Selby pic.twitter.com/bvfr5N1Q6K
— George Harrison (@GeorgeHarrison) October...
George Harrison | Sonia Moskowitz/Images/Getty Images Eric Idle and George Harrison met at a movie premiere
Harrison and Idle met at the premiere of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Harrison specifically sought out Idle, which was a bit stressful for the actor.
George with Olivia, @EricIdle and @TerryGilliam at the US premiere of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail", 1975
?: Jim Selby pic.twitter.com/bvfr5N1Q6K
— George Harrison (@GeorgeHarrison) October...
- 4/23/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Showtime’s Personality Crisis: One Night Only may showcase a multi-hyphenated personality – David Johansen is a band member, solo artist, and a songwriter who composed the show’s tunes for his own alter ego, Buster Poindexter – but there is no crisis. Co-directors Martin Scorsese and David Tedeschi are documenting a party, Johansen’s 70th birthday in January 2020, which he spent at the Café Carlyle.
Martin Scorsese knows how to set a table, serving up Thanksgiving dinner along with The Band for their farewell performance in The Last Waltz at San Francisco’s Winterland Ballroom. But the fancy venue on Manhattan’s Upper East Side is an intimate space with just enough room for Johansen’s special friends, and he only has to take an elevator to put in an appearance. But what an appearance! Performing as Buster Poindexter, Johansen’s got the best pompadour in the business, an attentive band...
Martin Scorsese knows how to set a table, serving up Thanksgiving dinner along with The Band for their farewell performance in The Last Waltz at San Francisco’s Winterland Ballroom. But the fancy venue on Manhattan’s Upper East Side is an intimate space with just enough room for Johansen’s special friends, and he only has to take an elevator to put in an appearance. But what an appearance! Performing as Buster Poindexter, Johansen’s got the best pompadour in the business, an attentive band...
- 4/18/2023
- by Mike Cecchini
- Den of Geek
“Inimitable storyteller” and “mythic storyteller” were a few of the superlatives sung of David Johansen, former New York Dolls frontman turned lounge act Buster Poindexter, at the Metrograph premiere of “Personality Crisis: One Night Only” in New York Tuesday.
But they could easily apply to the film’s co-director, Martin Scorsese, who made the cabaret concert documentary with David Tedeschi, the longtime editor on his past nonfiction music films like “George Harrison: Living in the Material World” and Bob Dylan’s “Rolling Thunder Revue.”
Curiously for an Oscar-winning filmmaker who has made eight music documentaries along with Fran Lebowitz portraits “Pretend It’s a City” and “Public Speaking” and other nonfiction efforts, Scorsese doesn’t exactly subscribe to the term documentary itself. Or differentiate it from his fiction features like “The Irishman” or the upcoming “Killers of the Flower Moon” at all.
“For me, what I’m trying to do is...
But they could easily apply to the film’s co-director, Martin Scorsese, who made the cabaret concert documentary with David Tedeschi, the longtime editor on his past nonfiction music films like “George Harrison: Living in the Material World” and Bob Dylan’s “Rolling Thunder Revue.”
Curiously for an Oscar-winning filmmaker who has made eight music documentaries along with Fran Lebowitz portraits “Pretend It’s a City” and “Public Speaking” and other nonfiction efforts, Scorsese doesn’t exactly subscribe to the term documentary itself. Or differentiate it from his fiction features like “The Irishman” or the upcoming “Killers of the Flower Moon” at all.
“For me, what I’m trying to do is...
- 4/12/2023
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
George Harrison was first inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with The Beatles in 1988. Initially, he didn’t want to go, but someone told him he’d regret it if he didn’t. Still, George had maintained a fame-less existence since the group split, and the chaotic crowds at the induction ceremony made him uncomfortable.
So, it’s good that George missed his induction as a solo artist. He wouldn’t have liked going because he felt uncomfortable with adulation and didn’t consider himself a fully-fledged rock star.
George Harrison at The Beatles’ Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction | Images Press/Getty Images George Harrison said The Beatles’ Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction didn’t mean anything
When George heard The Beatles were entering the Hall of Fame, he was unphased. He didn’t care about going and almost didn’t if someone hadn’t told him he’d regret it.
So, it’s good that George missed his induction as a solo artist. He wouldn’t have liked going because he felt uncomfortable with adulation and didn’t consider himself a fully-fledged rock star.
George Harrison at The Beatles’ Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction | Images Press/Getty Images George Harrison said The Beatles’ Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction didn’t mean anything
When George heard The Beatles were entering the Hall of Fame, he was unphased. He didn’t care about going and almost didn’t if someone hadn’t told him he’d regret it.
- 4/8/2023
- by Hannah Wigandt
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
While Martin Scorsese has made a name for himself directing fictional films, he has also released several music documentaries. Here are six of his documentaries that are worth watching both for fans of Scorsese and the musicians in front of his camera.
‘The Last Waltz’ | Michael Montfort/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images ‘The Last Waltz’
In 1976, Scorsese filmed the farewell concert for the group The Band. The 1978 documentary The Last Waltz shows The Band playing onstage with their many guests, including Muddy Waters, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, and Neil Young. In between the concert are filmed studio segments and interviews with The Band.
The film beautifully captures the performances and the excitement of the artists and the audience. It has rightfully been hailed as one of the best concert films of all time.
‘George Harrison: Living in the Material World’
Scorsese worked closely with George Harrison’s wife,...
‘The Last Waltz’ | Michael Montfort/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images ‘The Last Waltz’
In 1976, Scorsese filmed the farewell concert for the group The Band. The 1978 documentary The Last Waltz shows The Band playing onstage with their many guests, including Muddy Waters, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, and Neil Young. In between the concert are filmed studio segments and interviews with The Band.
The film beautifully captures the performances and the excitement of the artists and the audience. It has rightfully been hailed as one of the best concert films of all time.
‘George Harrison: Living in the Material World’
Scorsese worked closely with George Harrison’s wife,...
- 4/1/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles‘ friend Astrid Kirchherr was one of the few people who got to see them in their early days. She had a front-row seat throughout their residency in Hamburg, Germany, and witnessed their raw talent many times. The German photographer helped the band too. Without her, The Beatles would’ve had a terrible time abroad. Here’s what happened to Kirchherr, one of the most important people in The Beatles’ early years.
The Beatles and their friend Astrid Kirchherr | Max Scheler – K & K/Getty Images The Beatles’ friend Astrid Kirchherr helped them during their residency in Hamburg
In 1960, The Beatles left for one of the naughtiest cities in the world, Hamburg, Germany. Their first manager, Allan Williams, set up their residency at Bruno Koschmider’s Indra Club and the Kaiserkeller, where German artist Klaus Voormann first saw them perform.
He’d argued with his girlfriend, Astrid Kirchherr, and “wanted to let steam off.
The Beatles and their friend Astrid Kirchherr | Max Scheler – K & K/Getty Images The Beatles’ friend Astrid Kirchherr helped them during their residency in Hamburg
In 1960, The Beatles left for one of the naughtiest cities in the world, Hamburg, Germany. Their first manager, Allan Williams, set up their residency at Bruno Koschmider’s Indra Club and the Kaiserkeller, where German artist Klaus Voormann first saw them perform.
He’d argued with his girlfriend, Astrid Kirchherr, and “wanted to let steam off.
- 3/31/2023
- by Hannah Wigandt
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon’s glasses weren’t only a fashion statement. The Beatles’ legend needed them to see, and Paul McCartney has a hilarious story to prove it. John’s round spectacles reinforced his image as an all-around artist, but they didn’t do any good if he took them off.
(l-r) Beatles members John Lennon and Paul McCartney | Bettmann / Contributor John Lennon wore glasses because he was ‘blind as a bat’ otherwise
John’s artistic output extended beyond The Beatles. He wrote books and created artwork in addition to writing timeless songs. His glasses helped cultivate his image as a man of the arts, but he desperately needed them.
In the documentary George Harrison: Living in the Material World, the former Beatle comments that John “was blind as a bat” without his glasses. George says his bandmate rarely wore his spectacles, meaning he could barely see most of the time.
(l-r) Beatles members John Lennon and Paul McCartney | Bettmann / Contributor John Lennon wore glasses because he was ‘blind as a bat’ otherwise
John’s artistic output extended beyond The Beatles. He wrote books and created artwork in addition to writing timeless songs. His glasses helped cultivate his image as a man of the arts, but he desperately needed them.
In the documentary George Harrison: Living in the Material World, the former Beatle comments that John “was blind as a bat” without his glasses. George says his bandmate rarely wore his spectacles, meaning he could barely see most of the time.
- 3/25/2023
- by Jason Rossi
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
There are many things to watch if you love singer-songwriter and musician George Harrison. Here’s a list of things to put in your queue—everything from the former Beatle’s favorite films to documentaries about his life.
George Harrison | Gab Archive/ Getty Images
All of The Beatles’ movies
If you’re a George Harrison fan, bets are you’re also a Beatles fan. So, if you haven’t seen all of The Beatles’ films, put those at the top of your queue. There’s A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, Magical Mystery Tour, Yellow Submarine, and Let It Be. In A Hard Day’s Night, George has his “grotty” scene, which he didn’t want to do. Later, in Let It Be, we see his very-real tense fights with Paul McCartney.
‘The Beatles Anthology’
The Beatles Anthology was a massive project the remaining Beatles undertook in the mid-1990s. It comprises an eight-part television documentary,...
George Harrison | Gab Archive/ Getty Images
All of The Beatles’ movies
If you’re a George Harrison fan, bets are you’re also a Beatles fan. So, if you haven’t seen all of The Beatles’ films, put those at the top of your queue. There’s A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, Magical Mystery Tour, Yellow Submarine, and Let It Be. In A Hard Day’s Night, George has his “grotty” scene, which he didn’t want to do. Later, in Let It Be, we see his very-real tense fights with Paul McCartney.
‘The Beatles Anthology’
The Beatles Anthology was a massive project the remaining Beatles undertook in the mid-1990s. It comprises an eight-part television documentary,...
- 3/18/2023
- by Hannah Wigandt
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Martin Scorsese has turned his camera on the legacy of glam rock, as embodied by the famed band the New York Dolls.
Oscar winner Scorsese and Emmy nominee David Tedeschi (“The 50 Year Argument”) co-direct documentary “Personality Crisis: One Night Only” about music legend and New York Dolls frontman David Johansen. The synopsis reads: Framed around an intimate cabaret performance filmed in January 2020 at New York City’s storied Café Carlyle, the film explores the life and musical transformations of New York Dolls frontman David Johansen’s enormous influence as he regales the audience with stories and music illuminating the art and cultural evolution of New York City.
“Vegetarian, gay, straight; I just wanted to bring those walls down and have a party,” Johansen says in the trailer.
Scorsese has helmed multiple documentaries, especially centered on rock ‘n roll. Past docs include “No Direction Home: Bob Dylan,” “George Harrison: Living in the Material World,...
Oscar winner Scorsese and Emmy nominee David Tedeschi (“The 50 Year Argument”) co-direct documentary “Personality Crisis: One Night Only” about music legend and New York Dolls frontman David Johansen. The synopsis reads: Framed around an intimate cabaret performance filmed in January 2020 at New York City’s storied Café Carlyle, the film explores the life and musical transformations of New York Dolls frontman David Johansen’s enormous influence as he regales the audience with stories and music illuminating the art and cultural evolution of New York City.
“Vegetarian, gay, straight; I just wanted to bring those walls down and have a party,” Johansen says in the trailer.
Scorsese has helmed multiple documentaries, especially centered on rock ‘n roll. Past docs include “No Direction Home: Bob Dylan,” “George Harrison: Living in the Material World,...
- 3/16/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
On March 13, 1965, Eric Clapton made one of the most famous decisions in classic rock history: to leave The Yardbirds. He felt the group was leaving their blues roots behind. Clapton didn’t want to be in a pop band.
Eric Clapton and The Yardbirds | Gab Archive/ Getty Images Eric Clapton left The Yardbirds on March 13, 1965
Clapton was only 18 years old when he joined The Yardbirds in 1963. The group had just become the house band for London’s Crawdaddy Club. Clapton’s heart was in the blues. In George Harrison: Living in the Material World, Clapton said he was a sort of blues missionary at the time.
The Yardbirds was Clapton’s first professional band. However, within two years, Clapton recognized they were heading down a path he didn’t want to follow. Their third single, “For Your Love,” was too pop for Clapton. He decided to leave before they released the song.
Eric Clapton and The Yardbirds | Gab Archive/ Getty Images Eric Clapton left The Yardbirds on March 13, 1965
Clapton was only 18 years old when he joined The Yardbirds in 1963. The group had just become the house band for London’s Crawdaddy Club. Clapton’s heart was in the blues. In George Harrison: Living in the Material World, Clapton said he was a sort of blues missionary at the time.
The Yardbirds was Clapton’s first professional band. However, within two years, Clapton recognized they were heading down a path he didn’t want to follow. Their third single, “For Your Love,” was too pop for Clapton. He decided to leave before they released the song.
- 3/14/2023
- by Hannah Wigandt
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
George Harrison‘s son, Dhani, has hardly stopped since he thrust himself into finishing his father’s final album, Brainwashed, in 2001. He didn’t initially set out to become a musician, but after finalizing George’s posthumous album, he couldn’t ignore it anymore. Over the years, Dhani safeguarded his father’s legacy and pursued his music career.
George Harrison’s son, Dhani | Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images George Harrison’s son, Dhani, waited to choose his path in life
Dhani grew up with tons of great music. Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne were always in the recording studio at Friar Park. At eight, Dhani watched his father’s performance at 1987’s Prince’s Trust Concert. When he was 12, he performed with George during a show on his 1991 Japanese tour. However, he didn’t initially want to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Dhani went to college and got...
George Harrison’s son, Dhani | Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images George Harrison’s son, Dhani, waited to choose his path in life
Dhani grew up with tons of great music. Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne were always in the recording studio at Friar Park. At eight, Dhani watched his father’s performance at 1987’s Prince’s Trust Concert. When he was 12, he performed with George during a show on his 1991 Japanese tour. However, he didn’t initially want to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Dhani went to college and got...
- 3/12/2023
- by Hannah Wigandt
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Rolling Stones‘ songs “Start Me Up” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” showed up in a pair of recent commercials. Does this signal the band has sold out? In addition, why isn’t this conversation more prevalent?
Songs by The Rolling Stones have been used to advertise many different things
At some point, classic rock became a fixture of commercials. Last year, moviegoers might be treated to David Bowie’s “Starman” in the trailer for Lightyear, The Doors’ “People Are Strange” in the trailer for Morbius, and The Rolling Stones’ “Beast of Burden” in the trailer for Dog starring Channing Tatum — all during the same trip to the movies!
The Rolling Stones are having a particularly good year as far as marketing is concerned. “Start Me Up” is the centerpiece of a new advertisement for an all-you-can-eat dinner at Applebee’s. It’s a pretty sexual...
Songs by The Rolling Stones have been used to advertise many different things
At some point, classic rock became a fixture of commercials. Last year, moviegoers might be treated to David Bowie’s “Starman” in the trailer for Lightyear, The Doors’ “People Are Strange” in the trailer for Morbius, and The Rolling Stones’ “Beast of Burden” in the trailer for Dog starring Channing Tatum — all during the same trip to the movies!
The Rolling Stones are having a particularly good year as far as marketing is concerned. “Start Me Up” is the centerpiece of a new advertisement for an all-you-can-eat dinner at Applebee’s. It’s a pretty sexual...
- 3/3/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Choosing George Harrison‘s snarkiest comments is difficult, considering how many he made in his lifetime. The former Beatle was blunt and often said everything that came to mind. He was cynical but always kept his humous edge. Here are George’s top five snarkiest comments.
George Harrison | Images Press/Getty Images 5. ‘See you around the clubs’
In Peter Jackson’s The Beatles: Get Back, fans saw how George’s patients were stretched. There were tensions between the bandmates, but things between Paul McCartney and George got to boiling point. George abruptly quit and said, “I think I’ll be leaving the band now.”
John Lennon, surprised, asked, “When?” “Now. Get a replacement. Write into the NME and get a few people,” George said. As he packed up his things, George told the group he’d see them “’round the clubs.” However, George eventually returned to the band.
4. ‘But what do they want?...
George Harrison | Images Press/Getty Images 5. ‘See you around the clubs’
In Peter Jackson’s The Beatles: Get Back, fans saw how George’s patients were stretched. There were tensions between the bandmates, but things between Paul McCartney and George got to boiling point. George abruptly quit and said, “I think I’ll be leaving the band now.”
John Lennon, surprised, asked, “When?” “Now. Get a replacement. Write into the NME and get a few people,” George said. As he packed up his things, George told the group he’d see them “’round the clubs.” However, George eventually returned to the band.
4. ‘But what do they want?...
- 2/25/2023
- by Hannah Wigandt
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 2021, The Beatles: Get Back allowed viewers to watch as The Beatles scrambled to write new music. The documentary series captivated viewers, but with only three episodes, it seemed like it ended just as quickly as it had begun. Though director Peter Jackson has said that a follow-up isn’t out of the question, it may take a while. In the meantime, here are a few films and series to watch.
The Beatles | Express/Express/Getty Images Where is ‘The Beatles: Get Back’ available?
Though The Beatles: Get Back became available to watch in Nov. 2021, Jackson had been working on it for several years. Initially, he wasn’t sure if he wanted to accept the project.
“I actually didn’t say yes,” he told Vanity Fair in 2021. “I said, ‘Can I look at all the footage first? And then I’ll let you know.’ Because I was thinking, I’d...
The Beatles | Express/Express/Getty Images Where is ‘The Beatles: Get Back’ available?
Though The Beatles: Get Back became available to watch in Nov. 2021, Jackson had been working on it for several years. Initially, he wasn’t sure if he wanted to accept the project.
“I actually didn’t say yes,” he told Vanity Fair in 2021. “I said, ‘Can I look at all the footage first? And then I’ll let you know.’ Because I was thinking, I’d...
- 2/24/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
It’s hard to choose five of George Harrison‘s most religious songs because the former Beatle incorporated his spirituality into almost every tune he wrote. When George sang a love song, he wasn’t just singing about his devotion to a woman; he was singing to God too.
George’s songs always had a deeper meaning, whether he meant for to happen or not. Sometimes, he started a song with one specific inspiration, but by the time he finished it, the tune had a completely different meaning. Either way, here are five of George’s most religious songs.
George Harrison and members of the Hare Krishna Temple | Hulton Deutsch/Getty Images “The Inner Light”
George wouldn’t have written “The Inner Light” without Juan Mascaró, the Sanskrit teacher at Cambridge University. After seeing George on The Frost Programme, the professor wrote to the Beatle about his appreciation of “Within You Without You.
George’s songs always had a deeper meaning, whether he meant for to happen or not. Sometimes, he started a song with one specific inspiration, but by the time he finished it, the tune had a completely different meaning. Either way, here are five of George’s most religious songs.
George Harrison and members of the Hare Krishna Temple | Hulton Deutsch/Getty Images “The Inner Light”
George wouldn’t have written “The Inner Light” without Juan Mascaró, the Sanskrit teacher at Cambridge University. After seeing George on The Frost Programme, the professor wrote to the Beatle about his appreciation of “Within You Without You.
- 2/22/2023
- by Hannah Wigandt
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When The Beatles broke up, George Harrison was furious with Paul McCartney. He felt his bandmate had overlooked his contributions to the band, and McCartney had gone against the rest of the group in their pick of a manager. McCartney said that he felt abandoned by his former bandmates after the split, and he noted Harrison’s anger. He said that while Harrison often spoke about his spirituality, he was a very angry person after the split.
Paul McCartney and George Harrison | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images George Harrison was not happy with Paul McCartney after The Beatles broke up
In the earliest days of The Beatles, McCartney and John Lennon wrote most of the band’s songs together. Harrison grew increasingly invested in songwriting over the years, but his bandmates often overlooked his contributions. After the band broke up, Harrison said he would hire a different bassist if they ever reunited.
Paul McCartney and George Harrison | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images George Harrison was not happy with Paul McCartney after The Beatles broke up
In the earliest days of The Beatles, McCartney and John Lennon wrote most of the band’s songs together. Harrison grew increasingly invested in songwriting over the years, but his bandmates often overlooked his contributions. After the band broke up, Harrison said he would hire a different bassist if they ever reunited.
- 2/19/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr found global success with their music, they decided to expand into film with A Hard Day’s Night. The film was The Beatles’ first time acting on camera, and they did it with varying degrees of success. While they had fun shooting the film, watching it was a different story. The band’s press officer, Derek Taylor, said all but Harrison left during the band’s viewing of the film.
The Beatles in ‘A Hard Day’s Night’ | Gab Archive/Redferns The Beatles released their first film in 1964
In 1964, The Beatles decided to further capitalize on Beatlemania by releasing a movie. In it, the band played themselves. McCartney explained that they had fun doing it, but he didn’t think they were particularly good actors.
“The first film we ever made, and we’re having a good time,” said McCartney, per the...
The Beatles in ‘A Hard Day’s Night’ | Gab Archive/Redferns The Beatles released their first film in 1964
In 1964, The Beatles decided to further capitalize on Beatlemania by releasing a movie. In it, the band played themselves. McCartney explained that they had fun doing it, but he didn’t think they were particularly good actors.
“The first film we ever made, and we’re having a good time,” said McCartney, per the...
- 2/1/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
While HBO Max is undergoing a sea change behind the scenes, the streamer still boasts an impressive catalog of films. Its documentary line up is particularly strong, thanks to partnerships with TCM, the Criterion Collection, and HBO itself, as well as the inclusion of several HBO Max originals. On the service, you'll find everything from groundbreaking classics that defined the genre, like "Nanook of the North," to docuseries that dive into seminal artists and cultural icons, like "George Harrison: Living in the Material World," to investigative films that probe the human condition, like "Mommy Dead and Dearest."
Whether you're looking to learn more about an overlooked moment in history or dive into the dark underbelly of true crime, there's something for every kind of documentary fan on HBO Max. From the countless hours of material to choose from, we've gathered the best documentaries streaming on HBO Max right now.
20 Feet From Stardom...
Whether you're looking to learn more about an overlooked moment in history or dive into the dark underbelly of true crime, there's something for every kind of documentary fan on HBO Max. From the countless hours of material to choose from, we've gathered the best documentaries streaming on HBO Max right now.
20 Feet From Stardom...
- 9/13/2022
- by Molly Turner
- Slash Film
The Grammys took place in April, but we might not be done with music award winners just yet. Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Sheryl Crow, and The Beatles are the subjects of documentary programs that are eligible for this year’s Emmys. Will they be recognized by the TV academy just like they have been by the Recording Academy?
Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever” didn’t win any Grammys, alas, despite its seven nominations including Album of the Year. But her Disney+ special “Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles” is eligible for Emmys and is being submitted for Best Documentary or Nonfiction Special, as well as for its music direction, cinematography, and sound mixing. However, Eilish is not a credited producer or music director on “Love Letter,” so she herself won’t take home an Emmy if it wins its top category. Alas, the Grammy and Oscar winner...
Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever” didn’t win any Grammys, alas, despite its seven nominations including Album of the Year. But her Disney+ special “Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles” is eligible for Emmys and is being submitted for Best Documentary or Nonfiction Special, as well as for its music direction, cinematography, and sound mixing. However, Eilish is not a credited producer or music director on “Love Letter,” so she herself won’t take home an Emmy if it wins its top category. Alas, the Grammy and Oscar winner...
- 6/1/2022
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
White Horse Pictures, the production company behind recent documentaries about the Beatles, Lucille Ball and the Bee Gees, is producing another look at a legendary entertainer: Gene Wilder.
Library Films’ Chris Smith, the filmmaker behind projects such as “Bad Vegan” and “100 Foot Wave,” is directing the documentary about the star of “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” and “Young Frankenstein,” which will be told through the perspective of Jordan Walker-Pearlman, the late actor’s nephew and a filmmaker in his own right.
The documentary is produced in association with Sobey Road Entertainment, Harlem Hollywood and Mojo Global Arts. White Horse president and partner Nicholas Ferrall and partner Cassidy Hartmann will produce alongside Smith and Sobey Road’s Andrew Trapani. White Horse partners Nigel Sinclair and Jeanne Elfant Festa serve as executive producers alongside Mojo Global Arts’ Morris Ruskin and Joseph Mellicker. Joey Scoma will serve as editor and John Keller as co-executive producer.
Library Films’ Chris Smith, the filmmaker behind projects such as “Bad Vegan” and “100 Foot Wave,” is directing the documentary about the star of “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” and “Young Frankenstein,” which will be told through the perspective of Jordan Walker-Pearlman, the late actor’s nephew and a filmmaker in his own right.
The documentary is produced in association with Sobey Road Entertainment, Harlem Hollywood and Mojo Global Arts. White Horse president and partner Nicholas Ferrall and partner Cassidy Hartmann will produce alongside Smith and Sobey Road’s Andrew Trapani. White Horse partners Nigel Sinclair and Jeanne Elfant Festa serve as executive producers alongside Mojo Global Arts’ Morris Ruskin and Joseph Mellicker. Joey Scoma will serve as editor and John Keller as co-executive producer.
- 4/28/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Ron Howard is teaming with Disney Original Documentary to direct a feature film about Jim Henson and his career developing “The Muppets.”
The untitled film is being produced with the full participation and cooperation of the Henson family and will feature never-before-seen personal archives, performances with his early puppets from when Henson was a teenager and explore the worldwide success of “The Muppets,” “Sesame Street” and more.
Howard is directing and producing the film, which will also be produced by Brian Grazer, Margaret Bodde (“George Harrison: Living in the Material World”) and Imagine Documentaries’ Sara Bernstein and Justin Wilkes are producing the film for Disney Branded Television under the Disney Original Documentary banner.
The film will be executive produced by Imagine Entertainment’s Michael Rosenberg and Disney Original Documentary’s Marjon Javadi. Mark Monroe will serve as writer/producer and Paul Crowder will edit and executive produce, both of whom...
The untitled film is being produced with the full participation and cooperation of the Henson family and will feature never-before-seen personal archives, performances with his early puppets from when Henson was a teenager and explore the worldwide success of “The Muppets,” “Sesame Street” and more.
Howard is directing and producing the film, which will also be produced by Brian Grazer, Margaret Bodde (“George Harrison: Living in the Material World”) and Imagine Documentaries’ Sara Bernstein and Justin Wilkes are producing the film for Disney Branded Television under the Disney Original Documentary banner.
The film will be executive produced by Imagine Entertainment’s Michael Rosenberg and Disney Original Documentary’s Marjon Javadi. Mark Monroe will serve as writer/producer and Paul Crowder will edit and executive produce, both of whom...
- 3/30/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Oscar winners Ron Howard and Brian Grazer are teaming up with Disney Original Documentary for what is promised as the “definitive portrait” of Jim Henson, the legendary creator of the Muppets.
The nonfiction project from Howard and Grazer’s Imagine Documentaries is being produced “with the full participation and cooperation of the Henson family,” according to a release, “and will present a fascinating and intimate look at Jim’s illustrious career creating treasured characters and revolutionizing television and film. With never-before-seen personal archives, the film will give audiences an exciting first-person view into the life of one of the world’s most inspiring and iconoclastic creators through exclusive home movies, photographs, sketches and Henson’s personal diaries.”
Howard will direct and produce the untitled film. Grazer and Imagine Documentaries’ Sara Bernstein and Justin Wilkes will produce, along with Emmy winner Margaret Bodde (George Harrison: Living in the Material World...
The nonfiction project from Howard and Grazer’s Imagine Documentaries is being produced “with the full participation and cooperation of the Henson family,” according to a release, “and will present a fascinating and intimate look at Jim’s illustrious career creating treasured characters and revolutionizing television and film. With never-before-seen personal archives, the film will give audiences an exciting first-person view into the life of one of the world’s most inspiring and iconoclastic creators through exclusive home movies, photographs, sketches and Henson’s personal diaries.”
Howard will direct and produce the untitled film. Grazer and Imagine Documentaries’ Sara Bernstein and Justin Wilkes will produce, along with Emmy winner Margaret Bodde (George Harrison: Living in the Material World...
- 3/30/2022
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
A long-gestating movie about The Who’s late drummer Keith Moon is finally moving ahead, with plans in place to shoot in Britain this summer, Variety can reveal.
The project, which is tentatively titled “The Real Me” (the title of a song on Who album “Quadrophenia”), has Moon’s former band members Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend on board as executive producers. The pic is directed by Paul Whittington with a script from prolific British screenwriter Jeff Pope, who was Oscar-nominated for “Philomena.”
Los Angeles-based White Horse Pictures is producing. The outfit is best known for seminal Martin Scorsese documentary “George Harrison: Living in the Material World,” as well as Ron Howard’s Beatles documentary “Eight Days a Week: The Touring Years.” Founders Nigel Sinclair and Guy East are also known independently for movies like “The Ides of March” and “Rush.”
Shooting is set to begin on the Moon pic in June,...
The project, which is tentatively titled “The Real Me” (the title of a song on Who album “Quadrophenia”), has Moon’s former band members Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend on board as executive producers. The pic is directed by Paul Whittington with a script from prolific British screenwriter Jeff Pope, who was Oscar-nominated for “Philomena.”
Los Angeles-based White Horse Pictures is producing. The outfit is best known for seminal Martin Scorsese documentary “George Harrison: Living in the Material World,” as well as Ron Howard’s Beatles documentary “Eight Days a Week: The Touring Years.” Founders Nigel Sinclair and Guy East are also known independently for movies like “The Ides of March” and “Rush.”
Shooting is set to begin on the Moon pic in June,...
- 1/28/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: White Horse Pictures and Homegrown Pictures have teamed on an untitled documentary feature about the legendary musician and genius keyboardist Billy Preston. He was called the Fifth Beatle, because he the only non-member ever to be credited on a Beatles recording. He had plenty of his own hits and co-wrote the song Joe Cocker made famous, You Are So Beautiful. Fifteen years after his death in 2006, Billy Preston was inducted this past weekend into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Paris Barclay, the multi-Emmy-winning director, producer, and writer will direct. Cheo Hodari Coker is writing the film alongside Barclay.
The film is produced by Homegrown’s Stephanie Allain, White Horse’s Jeanne Elfant Festa, (Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart) and Nigel Sinclair. The exec producers are Barclay, Daniel Shaw, G. Marq Roswell, Olivia Harrison, Jonathan Clyde, and White Horse Pictures’ Nicholas Ferrall and Cassidy Hartmann. Coker is co-producing and Erikka Yancy serves as the film’s supervising producer. Pic is presented by Concord Originals alongside Impact Partners, Chicago Media Project, and Play/Action Pictures, Polygram Entertainment, Dave Knott, and Sobey Road Entertainment.
Said Allain: “A singular figure in music history, Billy Preston lent his genius to elevate the most celebrated artists of the 20th Century. Grateful to work with this team, using this soundtrack to explore his personal journey and finally place him front and center.” Barclay said “the Billy Preston we know was an incomparable musician,” but the Billy we’ll see in this documentary was a mass of contradictions. I’m thrilled to dig deeper into the complex man under the Afro, and behind the famous smile.”
A self taught prodigy keyboard player, Preston was just 16 when he met the not-yet-famous Beatles while playing for Little Richard while they toured Hamburg in 1962. He befriended the young, impoverished band by sneaking them food and drinks. Later in the ’60s, this led to Preston playing on The Beatles’ Let It Be and Abbey Road albums as a credited musician, and performing with the Beatles in their last live performance as a group – the famous Roof Top concert. The Grammy Award-winning artist had solo career that included number one hits, and working with The Rolling Stones, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nat King Cole, Sly Stone, Barbra Streisand, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin and Mahalia Jackson, among others. Preston is featured in the upcoming Peter Jackson-directed documentary The Beatles: Get Back.
Despite an enviable career in music, Preston had a challenging personal story that involved sexual abuse he endured as a child. He struggled with his sexuality and had substance abuse problems he used to make his pain. Only later in life did he come to terms with his truth and so find his peace.
Barclay and Hodari Coker asked to make a shout out to those who knew Preston or worked with him, who and may have recordings, photographs, or personal memories to make contact through http://www.billyprestondoc.com.
UTA Independent Film Group with White Horse Pictures helped raise the funding and they will broker sales of the film.
Allain’s Homegrown is repped by UTA, First Artists and Marcy Morris; Barclay is ICM and Lovett Management.
Paris Barclay, the multi-Emmy-winning director, producer, and writer will direct. Cheo Hodari Coker is writing the film alongside Barclay.
The film is produced by Homegrown’s Stephanie Allain, White Horse’s Jeanne Elfant Festa, (Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart) and Nigel Sinclair. The exec producers are Barclay, Daniel Shaw, G. Marq Roswell, Olivia Harrison, Jonathan Clyde, and White Horse Pictures’ Nicholas Ferrall and Cassidy Hartmann. Coker is co-producing and Erikka Yancy serves as the film’s supervising producer. Pic is presented by Concord Originals alongside Impact Partners, Chicago Media Project, and Play/Action Pictures, Polygram Entertainment, Dave Knott, and Sobey Road Entertainment.
Said Allain: “A singular figure in music history, Billy Preston lent his genius to elevate the most celebrated artists of the 20th Century. Grateful to work with this team, using this soundtrack to explore his personal journey and finally place him front and center.” Barclay said “the Billy Preston we know was an incomparable musician,” but the Billy we’ll see in this documentary was a mass of contradictions. I’m thrilled to dig deeper into the complex man under the Afro, and behind the famous smile.”
A self taught prodigy keyboard player, Preston was just 16 when he met the not-yet-famous Beatles while playing for Little Richard while they toured Hamburg in 1962. He befriended the young, impoverished band by sneaking them food and drinks. Later in the ’60s, this led to Preston playing on The Beatles’ Let It Be and Abbey Road albums as a credited musician, and performing with the Beatles in their last live performance as a group – the famous Roof Top concert. The Grammy Award-winning artist had solo career that included number one hits, and working with The Rolling Stones, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nat King Cole, Sly Stone, Barbra Streisand, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin and Mahalia Jackson, among others. Preston is featured in the upcoming Peter Jackson-directed documentary The Beatles: Get Back.
Despite an enviable career in music, Preston had a challenging personal story that involved sexual abuse he endured as a child. He struggled with his sexuality and had substance abuse problems he used to make his pain. Only later in life did he come to terms with his truth and so find his peace.
Barclay and Hodari Coker asked to make a shout out to those who knew Preston or worked with him, who and may have recordings, photographs, or personal memories to make contact through http://www.billyprestondoc.com.
UTA Independent Film Group with White Horse Pictures helped raise the funding and they will broker sales of the film.
Allain’s Homegrown is repped by UTA, First Artists and Marcy Morris; Barclay is ICM and Lovett Management.
- 11/4/2021
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
As Britney Spears’ legal battle ravages on, the buzzy television documentary surrounding the pop star’s conservatorship and the #FreeBritney movement has been nominated for two Emmys.
“Framing Britney Spears,” which was produced by the New York Times for FX and Hulu, has been nominated for outstanding documentary or nonfiction special and picture editing for a nonfiction program.
The Emmy nominations for “Framing Britney Spears” come just one day before Spears is expected to appear in court on July 14 for her latest hearing in her ongoing conservatorship saga.
Spears is currently fighting to have her father, Jamie Spears, removed from and terminate the conservatorship altogether. The singer is currently in talks with a major Hollywood power lawyer, who she hopes the court will approve to represent her on the ongoing matters, as she works to terminate the conservatorship that she has been under for 13 years. In 2008, her father became the...
“Framing Britney Spears,” which was produced by the New York Times for FX and Hulu, has been nominated for outstanding documentary or nonfiction special and picture editing for a nonfiction program.
The Emmy nominations for “Framing Britney Spears” come just one day before Spears is expected to appear in court on July 14 for her latest hearing in her ongoing conservatorship saga.
Spears is currently fighting to have her father, Jamie Spears, removed from and terminate the conservatorship altogether. The singer is currently in talks with a major Hollywood power lawyer, who she hopes the court will approve to represent her on the ongoing matters, as she works to terminate the conservatorship that she has been under for 13 years. In 2008, her father became the...
- 7/13/2021
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Michele Farinola is no stranger to producing music documentaries: Her credits include “Foo Fighters: Back And Forth,” “George Harrison: Living In The Material World,” and most recently, “Linda Ronstadt: The Sound Of My Voice,” which is up for best music film at the Grammy Awards Sunday night.
Farinola says she’s drawn to telling stories of legendary performers whose stories connect to today and to the audience’s own experiences. With Ronstadt, she felt this story of a woman who stayed true to herself as she made a name for herself in the ’60s was a story that could resonate with audiences. Together with producing partner James Keach, and directors Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman, Farinola made the documentary in conjunction with CNN Films.
Beyond its Grammy nomination, the film was nominated for three Critics Choice awards in 2019, and ultimately picked up two wins there, for Most Compelling Living Subject...
Farinola says she’s drawn to telling stories of legendary performers whose stories connect to today and to the audience’s own experiences. With Ronstadt, she felt this story of a woman who stayed true to herself as she made a name for herself in the ’60s was a story that could resonate with audiences. Together with producing partner James Keach, and directors Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman, Farinola made the documentary in conjunction with CNN Films.
Beyond its Grammy nomination, the film was nominated for three Critics Choice awards in 2019, and ultimately picked up two wins there, for Most Compelling Living Subject...
- 3/14/2021
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Martin Scorsese and his Sikelia Productions banner have signed a first-look film and television deal with Apple.
The acclaimed director is currently working with the streamer on the film “Killers of the Flower Moon,” which will directed by Scorsese and stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro. The film is in pre-production and is expected to debut in 2021.
News of Scorsese’s deal comes just over a week after it was announced that DiCaprio and his Appian Way production company had signed a first-look television deal with Apple.
Scorsese is one of the most celebrated directors in film history, having helmed iconic features such as “Taxi Driver,” “Raging Bull,” “The Last Temptation of Christ,” “Goodfellas,” “Casino,” “Gangs of New York,” “The Departed,” “Hugo,” “The Aviator,” “The Wolf of Wall Street,” “Silence,” and “The Irishman.” He has been nominated for the Academy Award for best director nine times, winning the award in 2007 for “The Departed.
The acclaimed director is currently working with the streamer on the film “Killers of the Flower Moon,” which will directed by Scorsese and stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro. The film is in pre-production and is expected to debut in 2021.
News of Scorsese’s deal comes just over a week after it was announced that DiCaprio and his Appian Way production company had signed a first-look television deal with Apple.
Scorsese is one of the most celebrated directors in film history, having helmed iconic features such as “Taxi Driver,” “Raging Bull,” “The Last Temptation of Christ,” “Goodfellas,” “Casino,” “Gangs of New York,” “The Departed,” “Hugo,” “The Aviator,” “The Wolf of Wall Street,” “Silence,” and “The Irishman.” He has been nominated for the Academy Award for best director nine times, winning the award in 2007 for “The Departed.
- 8/11/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Two and one-half months after it stepped up to become the producers of Killers of the Flower Moon, Apple has inked a first-look deal with its director, Martin Scorsese. The master filmmaker will base his Sikelia Productions banner at Apple in a multi-year deal for film and television projects Scorsese will produce and direct for Apple TV +.
The relationship kicks off with Killers of the Flower Moon, the Eric Roth-scripted adaptation of the David Grann non-fiction book which will star Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro will star in. Apple won an auction with the $180 million + film originally optioned by Paramount came back on the market. Deadline revealed on May 27 that Apple won a deal that has Paramount releasing the film theatrically. The film’s produced by Dan Friedkin and Bradley Thomas at Imperative Entertainment. The film is in pre-production and expected to get underway February in Oklahoma.
The relationship kicks off with Killers of the Flower Moon, the Eric Roth-scripted adaptation of the David Grann non-fiction book which will star Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro will star in. Apple won an auction with the $180 million + film originally optioned by Paramount came back on the market. Deadline revealed on May 27 that Apple won a deal that has Paramount releasing the film theatrically. The film’s produced by Dan Friedkin and Bradley Thomas at Imperative Entertainment. The film is in pre-production and expected to get underway February in Oklahoma.
- 8/11/2020
- by Justin Kroll and Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Pact covers film and TV produced by Scorsese for Apple TV+ through Sikelia Productions.
Apple has partnered with Martin Scorsese’s Sikelia Productions on a first-look deal months after boarding the filmmaker’s upcoming Killers Of The Flower Moon.
The Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro FBI crime drama is the first title under the multi-year arrangement.
Apple announced it had come on board as principal financier in late May after the project had been set up at Paramount, with whom Scorsese has had a long relationship.
The deal covers film and TV produced by Scorsese for Apple TV+ through Sikelia Productions.
Apple has partnered with Martin Scorsese’s Sikelia Productions on a first-look deal months after boarding the filmmaker’s upcoming Killers Of The Flower Moon.
The Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro FBI crime drama is the first title under the multi-year arrangement.
Apple announced it had come on board as principal financier in late May after the project had been set up at Paramount, with whom Scorsese has had a long relationship.
The deal covers film and TV produced by Scorsese for Apple TV+ through Sikelia Productions.
- 8/11/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Is it a crime to fall in love with Frankenstein? Martin Scorsese has, and hard. Pre-punk hard. The director is best known for movies with killer soundtracks, but he’s also brought such classic musical films as The Last Waltz–he even got Michael Jackson down a subway platform in the music video for “Bad.” Not to mention the work he did early in his career following Elvis Presley. Scorsese will next tilt his camera at the legendary David Johansen in a Showtime documentary, according to Rolling Stone.
“I’ve known David Johansen for decades, and his music has been a touchstone ever since I listened to the Dolls when I was making Mean Streets,” Scorsese said in a statement. “Then and now, David’s music captures the energy and excitement of New York City.”
Scorsese will co-direct with two-time Emmy nominee David Tedeschi, who edited George Harrison: Living in the Material World...
“I’ve known David Johansen for decades, and his music has been a touchstone ever since I listened to the Dolls when I was making Mean Streets,” Scorsese said in a statement. “Then and now, David’s music captures the energy and excitement of New York City.”
Scorsese will co-direct with two-time Emmy nominee David Tedeschi, who edited George Harrison: Living in the Material World...
- 7/7/2020
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
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