Peter Jackson Revives Iconic Beatles Documentary 'Let It Be'
Experience the iconic 1970 Beatles documentary 'Let It Be' as Hollywood director Peter Jackson brings it back to life. This rare film captures the Beatles during their final days before the band's breakup, now restored and set for release on Disney+ according to the streaming service's recent announcement.
A 1970 film that captures the Beatles before their breakup will soon be available on Disney+. Hollywood director Peter Jackson restored the film, and it will be released on May 8. This marks the first time in over 50 years that "Let It Be," directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg, will be accessible to viewers, Disney+ announced.
Peter Jackson, the filmmaker behind the acclaimed 2021 docuseries “The Beatles: Get Back” on Disney+, has meticulously restored the film and lovingly remastered the sound, as stated.
The Beatles, pictured on a London rooftop during their last live performance
The Beatles, pictured on a London rooftop during their last live performance
Daily Mirror/Mirrorpix/Getty Images
The documentary captures the band's journey as they create their last album, "Let It Be," on a rooftop in London. This special moment of live performance marked their final show, which Lindsay-Hogg believed had an impact on how the film was received.
19th May 1967: The Beatles celebrate the completion of their new album, 'Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band', at a press conference held at the west London home of their manager Brian Epstein. The LP is released on June 1st. (Photo by John Pratt/Keystone/Getty Images)
On May 19, 1967, The Beatles marked the finishing of their latest album, 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band', with a press event at their manager Brian Epstein's residence in west London. The album is officially released on June 1st. (Photo by John Pratt/Keystone/Getty Images)
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One month before the release of 'Let It Be', The Beatles officially broke up. Many people watched the film with sadness, realizing they may never see The Beatles perform together again. This sentiment darkened the perception of the film, as mentioned in the statement.
However, it is a rare opportunity to witness artists of such high caliber collaborating to bring their musical vision to life. As the film progresses to the rooftop performance, the audience can feel the excitement, camaraderie, and pure joy of seeing The Beatles play together for one last time. Looking back now, we understand the significance of this moment and appreciate the legacy of who they were and continue to be, adding a touch of poignancy to the experience.
Disney+ stated that there was a high demand from fans for the original 'Let It Be' film after the release of "The Beatles: Get Back." Director Jackson mentioned that both projects complement and strengthen each other.
The Beatles (from left) Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr and John Lennon at the London Palladium during a performance in 1963.
The Beatles (from left) Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr and John Lennon at the London Palladium during a performance in 1963.
Michael Webb/Getty Images
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"I was fortunate to have access to Michael's outtakes for 'Get Back,' and I've always believed that 'Let It Be' is essential to complete the 'Get Back' story," Jackson mentioned in the statement.
Fans of the Beatles can look forward to watching more films, as it was recently announced that Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes will be directing four separate feature-length biopics that will tell the story of the band from the perspective of each member: Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the late John Lennon and George Harrison.
Sony Pictures Entertainment announced in February that the upcoming films will showcase the perspective of each band member, coming together to narrate the remarkable journey of the greatest band in history.
Editor's P/S:
The upcoming release of "Let It Be" on Disney+ is a bittersweet moment for fans of The Beatles. The restored film, meticulously crafted by Peter Jackson, offers a glimpse into the band's creative process and their final live performance. While the film was initially met with sadness due to the band's impending breakup, it now serves as a poignant reminder of their undeniable talent and the legacy they left behind.
The restoration of "Let It Be" complements the acclaimed "The Beatles: Get Back" docuseries, providing a comprehensive look at the band's journey and the circumstances surrounding their final album. The announcement of four separate feature-length biopics on each band member further underscores the enduring fascination with The Beatles and their timeless music. These upcoming projects will delve deeper into the individual perspectives and experiences of the legendary musicians, offering a multifaceted exploration of their impact on popular culture.
