The Beatles first captivated the world more than fifty years ago. Their impact on music and pop culture remains immense to this day. They’ve become so legendary that it’s hard to find someone who hasn’t heard of them. The new romantic comedy, Yesterday, imagines a world where a musician wakes up to find he’s the only person who remembers The Beatles. It’s a charming and meaningful film featuring great music.
As a huge fan, I was excited when I saw the trailer for this Beatles-centric story. It quickly became my must-see film of the summer.
SUMMARY
For ten years, Jack Malik and his childhood friend and manager, Ellie, have been chasing Jack’s dream of being a successful musician. After another disappointing gig, Jack decides to give up, despite Ellie urging him not to. But then, fate steps in.
During a global blackout, Jack is hit by a bus. When he wakes up, he discovers that the world has no memory of The Beatles; it’s like they never existed, along with other random things like Coca Cola, Oasis, and cigarettes.
Jack decides to perform The Beatles’ music as his own. He rapidly gains fame and is hailed as a musical genius. However, his new-found success takes him away from home and from Ellie.
As Jack navigates the music industry, he faces many ethical dilemmas. Even though he finally has the career he dreamed of, he’s haunted by guilt. He starts to see the true consequences of his choices, including the distance growing between him and Ellie.
MY REVIEW OF YESTERDAY
Yesterday is a unique and delightful film. While it features music from The Beatles, it’s not a typical musical. The music and story blend seamlessly while still allowing each to shine.
UNIVERSAL MUSIC AND THEMES
Yesterday beautifully illustrates the universality of music and its power to unite us, especially through The Beatles, whose songs transcend genres, borders, and cultures.
Jack’s journey from obscurity to fame touches on universal themes, bringing to mind the saying about gaining the world but losing your soul. Jack must decide if the loss of irreplaceable things like companionship, loyalty, and love is worth his newfound success. These are choices everyone can relate to.
THE TALENT
Yesterday is a memorable and heartwarming film, thanks to the talented team behind it. Director Danny Boyle, an Oscar winner for Slumdog Millionaire, and writer Richard Curtis, known for About Time, Love Actually, Four Weddings and a Funeral, and Notting Hill, make a dynamic duo whose work I’d love to see more of.
The film’s cast is another strong point. Himesh Patel, a newcomer to the big screen from Eastenders, shines as the conflicted Jack Malik. His performance is both surprising and poignant.
Patel’s chemistry with co-star Lily James is charmingly awkward and sincere, portraying long-time friends who might want more from each other. It’s easy to see why Lily James is such a sought-after actress.
Kate McKinnon stands out as Jack’s brutally honest and soulless music agent. Cameos by Ed Sheeran and James Corden add fun and bring the film some contemporary cultural flair. Additionally, familiar faces from British productions like Justin Edwards, Sarah Lancashire, and an unrecognizable Robert Carlyle provide notable contributions.
OVERALL IMPRESSION OF YESTERDAY
You don’t need to be a Beatles fan to enjoy Yesterday, but it certainly enhances the experience. Lately, I’ve found many modern films disappointing, but Yesterday exceeded my expectations.
I went for the music but was captivated by the entire film. It’s rare to find a movie with genuine heart and soul. Yesterday manages to be sentimental without being overly sappy, awkward yet sincere, and both inspiring and challenging in its final message. It is easily one of the best films I’ve seen in a long time.
Where to Watch: Currently playing in theaters.
Content Note: Rated PG-13 for some sensuality and language.
