WHY THEY CALLED IT BEATLEMANIA

Rating: 8/10 (13 November 2002)

Yes, the acting is pretty cheeky, but it's the music that makes this black and white film so memorable. The Beatles are in the heyday. They come across on the screen as very charming and charismatic. But it is when they pick up their guitars that the artistry and talent really shine through. They were entertainers, not necessarily good actors. Ringo does show some promise as he did not seem as self conscience as John, Paul or George. This was Beatlemania, put together in a documentary format by Richard Lester. The movie being in black and white doesn't hurt either, as it gives the film a timeless feel. In an age before there were rock and roll videos, it is great to have this recorded piece of history on a group that became a phenomenon.