The Beatles’ ‘Let It Be’ Film: A Restored Classic Returns, Disney+ Premiere May 8

The Beatles’ classic 1970 documentary film, ‘Let It Be‘, is set to be released on Disney+ on May 8, 2024, marking its first television airing in over 50 years. The film, directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the band’s creative process during the recording of their twelfth and final studio album of the same name. With the upcoming release, fans will have the opportunity to witness the Beatles’ final documentary and gain insight into the dynamics that would eventually lead to their breakup.

‘Let It Be’ has undergone a meticulous restoration process by Peter Jackson’s Park Road Post Production team. This includes a restoration from the original 16mm negative and a remastering of the audio using the same MAL de-mix technology employed in Jackson’s docuseries, ‘The Beatles: Get Back’. Jackson’s docuseries, released in 2021, utilized outtakes from Lindsay-Hogg’s original film, and now, fans will be able to experience the full documentary that provided the source material.

The film captures the Beatles in a period of transition and creative exploration. It documents their rehearsals and recording sessions at Twickenham Film Studios and their own studio in Savile Row, London. The band’s intention was to create a “back to basics” album, but the process proved challenging, with tensions arising within the group. Despite these difficulties, the film showcases the Beatles’ collaborative spirit and their enduring musical talent.

‘Let It Be’ provides a unique perspective on the band’s dynamic, observing them from a “fly on the wall” viewpoint without narration or interviews. It captures the Beatles’ interactions and creative discussions, including a mildly tense exchange between Paul McCartney and George Harrison regarding guitar parts. The film also includes appearances by Mal Evans and Yoko Ono, who was constantly by John Lennon’s side.

The film builds towards the Beatles’ legendary rooftop concert on the Apple Corps building in London. This unannounced performance attracted a crowd of surprised onlookers and eventually drew the attention of the police, who attempted to shut down the show. The concert marked the band’s final public performance together and served as a poignant conclusion to the film.

The original release of ‘Let It Be’ in May 1970 was overshadowed by the Beatles’ recent breakup. The film’s portrayal of the band’s dynamics and interpersonal strains, combined with the timing of its release, led to a perception of the film as a sombre document of their dissolution. However, Lindsay-Hogg has reflected on this perception, stating that the film captures the excitement, camaraderie, and sheer joy of the band playing together for the last time.

With the upcoming re-release, ‘Let It Be’ takes on a new significance, offering a fresh perspective on the Beatles’ final days as a group. It stands as a historical document of their creative process and the complexities of their relationships. The restoration and re-release of the film provide an opportunity for both longtime fans and new audiences to experience this pivotal moment in music history.