The moment you hear the iconic chords of “Yesterday,” you know you’re in for something special. Danny Boyle’s 2019 romantic comedy, Yesterday, is a heartfelt tribute to The Beatles, wrapped in a fictional tale that reimagines the world through the lens of their timeless music.
Set against a vibrant backdrop, this film showcases a screenplay penned by Richard Curtis, with a shared story credit to him and Jack Barth. The narrative pivots on a simple yet captivating premiswhat if you were the only person who remembered The Beatles? It’s a question that resonates deeply with fans and casual viewers alike.
To bring this vision to life, the filmmakers invested nearly $10 million to license The Beatles’ extensive discography. Although none of the surviving members or their families participated in the project, Boyle assured that he had their nod of approval before diving in. It premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in May 2019 and hit theaters in the UK and US that June, grossing an impressive $155 million worldwide against a budget of just $26 million.
The film stars EastEnders actor Himesh Patel in the lead role, alongside Lily James, Joel Fry, Ed Sheeran, and Kate McKinnon. Interestingly, Boyle selected Patel after he heard him perform “Yesterday” and “Back in the U.S.S.R.” during auditions, highlighting the integral role of music in casting decisions.
In a playful revelation during an interview on BBC Radio 1, Ed Sheeran shared that he was, humorously, the third choice for his role. “They asked Chris Martin, he said no, they asked Harry Styles, he said no, and I was third choice,” he said. This playful anecdote adds a layer of light-heartedness to the film’s production story.
The film didn’t escape critical scrutiny, with some reviewers noting that “Yesterday is a victim of the amnesia it inflicts upon its characters.” Yet, others praised its charm and originality, stating that it effectively creates an “interesting concept.” Many fans found it a delightful departure from the standard biopic by weaving its own narrative around the beloved Beatles songs.
Paul McCartney, who saw the film at a cinema in The Hamptons with his wife, Nancy Shevell, expressed his enjoyment, stating they “loved it.” Director Danny Boyle made sure to send copies of the finished product to Ringo Starr and George Harrison’s widow, Olivia, who both responded positively. Even Yoko Ono, John Lennon’s widow, gave her approval, a sign of the film’s reverence for the band’s legacy.
Audiences also seemed to appreciate the film, with one viewer remarking, “Genuinely wonderful and heartfelt… it left me wanting more.” Another fan shared, “One of my favourite movies of all time… with the Beatles soundtrack, the movie is a joy!” The magnetic chemistry between Lily James and Himesh Patel shone through, and the seamless appearances by Ed Sheeran and Kate McKinnon added a modern twist.
Yesterday is available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer till June 17
Ultimately, Yesterday invites viewers into a whimsical world that celebrates not just the music of The Beatles, but also the magic of love, creativity, and the possibilities of imagination. It’s a cinematic experience that, while rooted in a fictional premise, offers palpable nostalgia for those who hold The Beatles dear, making it a must-see for romantics and music lovers alike.