Get Back Series RECAP |
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ต.ค. 2024
- Here I give my thoughts on the Peter Jackson Get Back series on the Beatles Let It Be sessions. Michael Lindsay Hogg's work also gets talked about as well as the destruction of the myth that this period was all misery, hate, and breakup.
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Crazy for people to complain about the length of Get Back, in an age when people spend days and weeks watching absolute nobodies doing absolutely nothinh on reality TV. Quality content as always, thanks!
Right? I’m hoping for even more content when it gets out on DVD!
@@hinesypoomusic Absolutely! 60 hours would suffice. No but seriously…. 60 hours would suffice.
I could watch the whole 50 odd hours.
I wish it was twice as long!
@@jnielsen1956 hehe true. Funny how nobody in the media has picked up on that much.
Ron Howard’s documentary was for the casual fan. Get Back was for us !
Well stated Garrettjeff!
Ron worked with previously recorded film. MLH created a new film, with a more personal, in-depth perspective. Both are great, in their own light.
Exactly. I really liked the Ron Howard film, but this, well this is for 'us'. Can't say it any better. 👍
agree!
Ron Howard's film satisfied the casual fan. But it is/was for all fans. Get Back is for the devotees.
Peter Jackson said in an interview with the “Things We Said Today” crew that Disney probably wasn’t going to release an extended director’s cut, so he put in as much material into these releases as possible for us Beatle fans. Thanks Mr. Jackson!!
Excellent video very comprehensive review well done. Being a lifelong Beatles fan Peter Jackson’s film is like the icing on the cake re-Beatlemania.
Hi Vivian - I didn't know that, thanks for sharing. Matt's review is the best I've seen but I do take issue with his "it's too long" opinion. However, I'm one of those who'd happily sit through all 50+ hours if it became available 😂.
I would watch 50 hours as well. Hell, I've already listed to 90+ of the nagra reels. I still feel for a general release, this was too long and I base that on the several scenes i saw that could have been trimmed without losing any impact to the story.
@@popgoesthe60s52 It's a fair point Matt - a bit overwhelming for the general viewer, but I suppose the logic driving the decision may have been "how many of them will there be?".
@@popgoesthe60s52 I totally agree-- if there were going to be a director’s cut available later! I think Disney should also stream the the original version intended for theater release.
My wish list for an extended/director’s cut Blu-ray :
1) the rooftop concert- no interruptions
2) a dialog only compilation- no noodling
3) the version that was originally going be released to movie theaters before Covid
4) and of course, all 8 hours that are streaming now!
Perhaps my favorite part was the gradual realization regarding John's role in keeping the band loose. I've always loved John's humor, his clowning, his sense of play, his absurdist, Alice in Wonderland sensibility. And of course we've always heard it in the music in a variety of ways. But watching it on full display here I became aware of its value to the process itself, especially (of course) as a needed foil to Paul's workmanship. Of course we've always heard about this dynamic and caught glimpses of it, but it was a revelation to actually see it unfold like that in real time. John cracked me up over and over and over again.
"And now, your hosts for this evening, The Rolling Stones!"
Watching John and Paul work together was amazing. He kept Paul laughing, helping him keep it light and fun. It was obviously how much they really liked each other.
I thought John seemed kind of manic. Thats what opiates do to your soul. When you got them you are normal. When you do not have them, all you can think about is when you can get them. I have been dopesick many many times. It is not fun. It steals your soul.
@@stevesuv I actually thought Paul was very manic! Very twitchy.
@@loosilu That's the blow.
@@loosilu man was anxious the whole time, especially on episode 1
One of the things that I thought about a lot while watching Get Back was the effect of Brian Epstein's death 18 months earlier. Mention is made in part 1 of how things haven't been the same since Mr. Epstein passed away. Paul feeling that he had to play the Epstein role in order to get anything done but not being comfortable being the group leader. The others resenting Paul to some degree. The introduction of Allen Klein. It would be fascinating to do an alternate history where Brian Epstein doesn't die in 1967. In my opinion, that band would not have broken up in 1970 if the whole Klein situation never happened. Food for thought.
Yeah that really surprised me, that George and eveyeone else was aware that there was a change after Brian died. Turns out there was a lot of truth when Lennon famously said later "after Brian died, we collapsed. I thought 'we've fucking had it.' "
@@prettyshinyspaghetti8332 I've always held that the death of Brian Epstein was the biggest catalyst in the breakup. He was not only their manager but also a father figure for John. He mitigated and smoothed over small problems between band members before they had a chance to fester and shielded "the boys" from a lot of the non-music related stuff. Without him, small problems became big problems pretty quickly and bad decisions were made by musicians forced into an unfamiliar and unwanted role.
I believe there’s a recent interview with Peter Jackson where he completely agrees with Klein being the main reason they split when they did.
I was surprised how they all still talked about him as "Mr Epstein", not Brian.
@@dustmote3020 I've never heard any of them refer to him as "Mr. Epstein" in any interview. I think they were deliberately being exaggeratedly respectful in this case, for comical effect.
My favourite part of the film was seeing the moment Paul comes up with Get Back. Seeing George and Ringo just blankly staring at him, all tired waiting for John to come. I love the moment a song is born. So inspiring as any song writer knows. I just wish that moment was caught for every single song!
That was a highlight for me, too. Number two would be when Ringo and Michael Lindsay-Hogg are chatting while Paul is noodling on the piano, and just as Paul started playing the chord progression that would become "Let It Be," Ringo said, "I could listen to him for an hour."
Yeah, I had never know of this. I may have heard it but you get so much more context when seeing it!
That was such a thrill! As a writer myself, I love watching the crewtobe process happen in real time, and we actuallu got to see Paul essentially write that melody and the chord progression, and then we saw him and John working on the lyrics! It was such a treat
Absolutely. The progression of Get Back from noodling on the bass to the finished song alone was worth the 8 hours.
Agreed, it was so bizarre watching it like we have gone back to the past.
Like you wanted to yell at the tv to change the lyrics or to make certain changes.
Also just how ordinary the original idea was, but then became so great.
For me, the lunchtime conversation between John and Paul (re: George) was the absolute highlight of the whole doc. It represented everything that I've always wanted to believe about the band: that these are adults who have grown up together and know each other as well as (if not better than) we know our oldest friends; that they walk the same tightropes that we do with old friends and family, swapping between softness and candor based on need; that when words get sharp, they can give and receive blows and, in the end, give each other the benefit of the doubt. I've never been so glad that someone had their privacy violated by a secret recording 😆
Yeah, we have technology to thank for rescuing that conversation’s legibility. That had to have been wired pretty quickly. Kinda’ intrusive (like surveillance) beyond the usual candid documentary.
peter jackson edited that conversation pretty shockingly though: th-cam.com/video/LFmPCS4xysc/w-d-xo.html
@@1600film Fascinating, I definitely hadn't heard the more complete version. Tbh, some of that didn't make sense to me: it's so steeped in their personal histories that parts are almost in code. But one thing is clear: it wasn't the private conversation I imagined if Ringo, Yoko and Linda are there. It's likely more candid than the other stuff that MLH captured, but it's not "Lennon-McCartney Alone Reveal All!"
So many moments to love. McCartney's expression when Billy Preston sits at the Fender Rhodes and totally gets the feel of (I think) Don't Let Me Down was one of them. Another was when Johns and Lindsay-Hogg put the rooftop idea to Macca and his eyes light up. It won't be long (yeah - yeah) before I'm watching the whole thing again!
I think Jackson mentioned in a recent interview that it might be late next year but I would think it would be sooner. Nothing definite yet.
I loved when Paul first noticed the cops on the roof and got excited lol
@@wwekane2468 Yup - and then augmented his lyrics.
I actually shed some tears when I saw them playing with Billy Preston for the first time. Billy was such a talent.
One of my favourite bits on the rooftop is when John flubs his words in Don't Let Me Down, sings gobbledegook, and Paul and George laugh, but then you see Paul watching intently to see which line John's going to sing next, so he can harmonise, and when the line comes he is right there with that beautiful high harmony.
Go watch Beatles Blackpool live version of Help. Sounds better than the record except John flubs the words. But Paul and George cover for him and get him back on track. Same with live version of "You Can't Do That". John was not only a ham during all the lip sync videos but a bit lazy about memorizing the words to HIS OWN SONGs.
That was my favourite bit in the whole thing. George looking at John and laughing and then Paul just checking John’s got the next line ok and then they look at each other after John got it right and both smile. It just summed up for me how close they all still were. Loved it.
I noticed that, as well.
@@Cryo837 This makes sense actually. I noticed Paul gave John grief about not knowing the words to "Two of Us," and John jokingly fobbed him off saying something like, "I've memorised the lyrics, at least most of them." 😂
"60% of the time, it works every time!" 🤣
You need to watch I'm down in Germany...they mess up spectacularly but laugh and carry on....that's genius
Has anyone else found themselves feeling sad or melancholy after watching this documentary? I feel sad and like I am going through some kind of grieving process here. I know this sounds weird, but The Beatles have been a big part of my life. It's the music that my heart and soul responds to most. I can't explain it except to say it's like the last message from a friend I'll never hear from again. Final questions answered and all that can be known is now final. I love the Beatles. I knew when John was gone, it would never be the same. Now, it's like they are now part of history and it's time to let go. I never expected to feel this way.
I know exactly what you mean as a 55 year old bloke from the UK I had a little cry at the end of it
Oh yes, I felt a sad melancholy. Yet, it was so wonderful to see this documentary wasn’t it? Emotional for me being a Beatle fan . Beatles 4ever.
Yes and no. I delayed watching part 3 for a few days because I needed to be in the right head space for it. I was weeping tears of joy throughout the rooftop concert, though. It was like 'yes, Preacher, there really IS a Santa Claus.' But knowing that things were not as depicted, exactly, for the last 50 years, even from the mouth of Lennon in the Lennon Remembers interview, is a source of comfort to me. You can't get together and make music like that and Abbey Road whilst hating one another.
I feel the same way. I’m sure a lot of us do. I wonder how Paul and Ringo feel?
I feel you man! I ended up being sad understanding we'll never have new material after seeing the amazing work Peter did with this footage, I felt like I was chilling there, jamming, learning from them, being in awe as they started to write what I consider masterpieces (as the rest of the pop world does haha) and deep sadness this is it.
so many things to talk about
like, everytime Glyn was not recording on tape, it's boom mic audio quality. they mixed this movie SO WELL
By the way...I'd like to see Peter's first edit...18 hours!
Coming soon on Blu Ray/DVD!!! ...unless Peter Jackson is going to make a Sequel to Get Back LOL!!!
Yes! I pray that he does release the full 18 hours edit... 😄👍
If anything, it was too short. Everybody complains that Jackson goes over-long, e.g. stretching the Hobbit to nearly nine hours, but don't forget here he has made something from 57 of video!
Surprised you didn't mention that it was originally going to be a theatrical release - that surely would have been in at around the 2.5 hour mark which the 'casual Beatles fan' would like/tolerate.
One thing that annoyed me, only slightly, was that the final days shooting was completely glossed over and only shown on the credits. It's as if Jackson had run out of time!
Another great video, I look forward to more great ones!
The hug with Paul, Ringo and John after George went out, was really a touching moment.
Yet Yoko had to ram herself into it...ugh
I found myself getting irritated by her
Lindsay-Hogg was crazy ambitious and we can only thank him for such treasure. In a era of heavily editorialized and disposable N-flix documentaries it's refreshing how laid back this documentary is. Peter Jackson made the right choice by making few choices as possible. Even the intertitles are just Arial font in yellow added in Windows Movie Maker.
I agree, thank you, Chaunce.
This will forever be my "Get Back" Thanksgiving weekend in my memory. This whole thing was quite daunting, but as a Beatle nut I fell under its spell after some initital (unexpected) resistance. The sheer volume of footage puts to rest all the flat earther Beatle fanatics b.s. (as you called them! Perfect!) The genuine affection and love these guys had for each other, even in the face of what was happening business-wise, is undeniable. Even the infamous George and Paul argument was given a larger context which completely normalizes it. I've been in a band. That shit happens. The ridiculous self imposed pressure of the project itself made this a VERY different project for them, and the pressure of that deadline was relentless. They were being forced to make an album in way that they never made one before, which alone would have been a huge challenge. (Just playing the songs live with no overdubs or fixing) If you or anyone else is interested, there is a whopping four hour long zoom interview with Jackson on a little podcast here on a TH-cam channel called "Things We Said Today". Jackson does most of the talking and offers an incredible amount of insight from his own perspective on the whole project. Not for the faint of heart! It's so long!! Haha I took small bites of it over the weekend till I finished up yesterday. A worthy companion piece to the special.
I did see that and it was great! I may discuss some of his points because he talks about a lot of stuff that didn't appear in the film.
Will probably be my new Thanksgiving tradition.
"The ridiculous self imposed pressure of the project itself made this a VERY different project for them, and the pressure of that deadline was relentless."
George Martin: Well we've already given you deadlines, Paul.
Paul: Yeah, that's why I'm talking to John and not you.
hahahahahah!
Actually, their first album was recorded "live with no overdubs or fixing", and they did it in a single day. On that occasion, of course, they were recording only songs they'd played live many times before. The 3 1/2 weeks they gave themselves for the "Let it Be" album was a little tight, but not drastically so. A few months later they recorded Abbey Road in about the same amount of time. So, I think the idea that this was an unusually pressured situation has been exaggerated.
@@rikkiabe5932 You're 100% right! about recording live in the very beginning I thought about that about two seconds after I posted my comment!! Haha But I'm sure you get my gist. They had graduated to doing overdubs to complete their musical ideas and doing it totally live as a combo wasn't really how they recorded anymore. They got the basic tracks that way, but not the entire song, with the full arrangements. You know what I'm talking about.
Glyn Johns totally calling out Allen Klein while Lennon was all starry eyed about the dude. That there really was the beginning of the end, just when The Beatles had gotten through a sticky patch. A lot of great work could have been done in the Apple basement!
Yes Glyn already knew of Klein’s bad reputation from working in Rock n Roll Circus and was trying to warn John but John was too starstruck to heed his warning.
@@BigSky1 He eventually came round thankfully.
@@johnmc3862Yes he finally had to admit that Paul was right. But not until 1973!
100%. I got very upset listening to John praising Klein, knowing what was to come, and yes Glyn Johns had him pegged. Too bad John didn't listen to him.
A lot of folks blame Yoko, but it was really the detestable Allen Klein who broke up the Beatles.
I still haven't watched part 3. I dunno why, I think it's because once that's done, it's done. From what I've seen, PJ has done an excellent job telling the actual story in a linear, and clear way.
Observations:
John is more 'there' than I thought he would be. There's only a few times where he seems on the heroin nod. Could just be fatigue, too, from doing Teddy Boy too much.
Paul is very aware that his pushiness is getting on everyone's nerves, but he doesn't know what else to do. It really emerges that he's the Engine of the Beatles. He's also quite insightful about John's relationship with Yoko. I thought a lot of the playing down of the 'hatred for Yoko' was later so that Yoko would be more cooperative in the business side, but when she wasn't invited to Linda's funeral, she complained, and Paul said the 'service was for friends.' But, no. Paul clearly understands that pushing John on Yoko's presence would have the opposite effect intended.
George is dyspeptic from day 1. He suggests a divorce the first day of shooting?
I'm a musician and I've been in bands. I've seen a lot worse bickering. What I saw on in the doc was normal for a band, with the exceptions that A) these were the Beatles B) there were cameras and mics in their faces all the time C) Paul set them a very daunting, unrealistic task to write, record, and perform 14 new songs in 3 weeks. I mean, really? They've just depleted themselves on the White Album, whatever they've got left over from India is very unfinished, everything else is only in the germinal stage. Can you imagine the stress that this task caused?
It's never done! Indeed - lots of stress that ultimately came to the surface. Thankfully, so did their talents and professionalism.
Ohhhh it's good, dude!
It does seem puzzling..so very unrealistic
Part 3 is so much fun. After part one and 2 to finally get where they perform is such a ride
Same here! I got about a few minutes in and when I saw clips of people hanging outside Saville Row I stopped it. I'll eventually watch Part 3 by this week. But I want this special feeling to linger a little bit. Reminds me of the world premiere of the Anthology series. Special times.
My favourite bits are the ones with Mal Evans. He looks like such a good-natured person and the whole thing is bitter-sweet knowing how his life ended a couple of years later. The bit when Paul discussed with him "The Long and Winding Road" is so wholesome and shows that he was really their friend not just an employee. One of the greatest songwriters of all time listening and taking note of suggestions by his road manager. Stuck up celebrities don't do that. Anyway well done for the quick review - I have to watch it again when I find the time. There is so much stuff that I'm sure I missed.
Yes! Mal Evans was their buddy and confidante, not an employee. The guy who would go shopping for instruments for them or drive their van in inclement weather with a broken to bits windshield, etc. So unfortunate how he died.
Reading his Wikipedia page I'd say that officially he was treated like an employee on a wage. Some songs he even contributed to and never go any royalties - we have proof of that on The Long and Winding Road now. The more I read the more I see how life treated him badly even though Paul, in particular, was so nice to him in person.
He did get royalties on a few songs but not label credit.
I cried watching Mal dance with Heather in episode 3. That whole "Dig It" scene was so amazing
@@popgoesthe60s52 I see - everything surrounding this seems confusing though. Most probably he got a one-off cheque and not royalties - to get royalties you need to be registered with a performance society (like PRS) and have your name attributed to the song in question, even if a tiny percentage.
There was a dream team of studio technicians in there: George Martin, Glyn Johns, Alan Parson, and Chris Thomas. If that's not a Hall of Fame line-up, in just one room working on just one album, then nothing is.
The one thing that I don't get is why he showed us 8 hours of material and then cut the last day when they recorded Let It Be, The Long and Winding Road and Two of us? I was kind of disappointed with that ending.
Even Jackson felt it was probably getting too long! There were several scenes that could have been trimmed down with losing any of the story.
Jackson has said he avoided duplication with Let It Be as much as possible so the 1970 film would still be viable. This makes me think it will be made available, perhaps as a bonus disc in a possible Get Back DVD collection.
@@tombeyerlein3813 They can't release something like that, too soon for me!
@@tombeyerlein3813 , that's what I'm hoping for , that the original let it be 1970 movie will be included with a DVD/Blu ray edition , I heard there's going to be another 6 hours of unreleased content , I mean , that's 12 or 13 hours out of 50+ hours , it's like unreleased Elvis Presley material , he's been dead now for 44 years but RCA finds ways to put out more unreleased content
First off: This film was a Masterpiece and everyone involved deserves so much credit!
Second: I really hope this film gives Matt a lot more material for further Deep Dives.
Third: Was waiting for Matts reaction and I hope he knows how many times I hear his channel mentioned on other Channels. Pretty cool Matt great work. Also glad he could tell the naysayers off.
Fourth: I'm not sure how many more times I'll watch the documentary in the coming years, maybe a million. But watching these geniuses work, and they are geniuses, especially watching it with family on thanksgiving and seeing my 9yr old niece become a massive Beatles fan before my eyes was so amazing. She liked the Beatles a bit before because she knows I like them and she knew all their names beforehand but by the end of Part1, she wanted to stay up til 3am to find out about the meeting at Georges place. Great memories. Thats what this band is capable of.
Fifth: I could go on for days.
So cool about your 9-year old niece! She will forever be able to point to this event as her Beatle Awakening :-)
@@buddyneher9359 that's exactly what I thought in the moment! Shes already got the Let it Be tee-shirt haha. Thanks Buddy! The Beatles really have a special thing about them. I'm 37 so even for me this is really the first Beatles event I've been able to see in a Masterpiece level. I do remember Anthology in the 90's I was like 10 and I remember it airing. I already liked the Beatles at that point and Oasis and Radiohead but none of my friends seemed to or would admit it. Lol Beatles forever in my mind.
Yes, professional to the last, even to the way George left. Fascinating to watch them create tunes, throwing out lyrics and ideas, cobbling bits and pieces together...rapidly. I can see how their prolific output came about, they could make a song about anything. Gained even more respect for them both as a group and individuals. Great commntary.
Thanks, Clarence!
This is the greatest music documentary of how music was created in the mid twentieth century. Which was what the Beatles intended. This documentary shows the process, the moment of artistic creation and when synergy becomes magic. Confirms Beatles as the greatest band ever.
As someone who lived during this period and experienced some of this Beatle madness there are 3 things that jump out at me from this series. First of all, thank God Billy Preston ✅✅✅ arrived on the scene during these recordings. He was a life saver especially musical wise. We all know how he helped make them all behalf better towards one another. He helped bring things together for the boys when they drastically needed it. Secondly, I was surprised that the two greatest songs on the album - Let It Be and The Long & Winding Road were never shown in there entirety. All we get is a few clips of them rehearsing the songs and few small clip on the end credits. That does not make sense to me at all. We get 50 versions of Don't Let Me Down & I've Got a Feeling instead. And thirdly, when the rubber hits the road the Beatles come through. When the boys strap on their guitars and Ringo picks up the drum sticks, it's remarkable to hear that Beatle sound come together on the roof when they are playing live. That's the true joy of it all. The magic is still there full force. PS: It really sheds a bright light on what George had to go through to get his songs on the map. Being the youngest, he had to fight to be heard but he never gave up and shone very brightly in the end. God bless George for strength of will and talent. Long live the Beatles!🔈🔈🔈
They probably figure that Let It Be, Long & Winding Road are in their entirety on the original film release. Diehards can watch it there when it is re-released. Then again, it will probably be in the Director's Cut.
I agree about the 2 ballads. Not enough and they were both #1 songs. Thanks for the comment, Eric.
I was a bit bummed about the ballads as well. But that is about my only complaint out of 8 hours of show.
@@popgoesthe60s52 Although, I think, they were both performed in their entirety in the Lindsay-Hogg film, and also Anthology #3.
Billy Preston brought a lot of energy and change in attitude, but it became very noticeable that he was become more than a little peeved by the indecision of the band regarding going on the roof and the constant retakes of the songs.
I really appreciated the honesty between them, some hard moments but the truthful way John took Paul to task and how Goerge gave his heart's feeling about not being given a fair shot about songs he wrote. The pain in the eyes of Ringo and Paul shed real tears when Paul said "and then there were 2. Man!
Mccartney was missing the old days (live playing) .Lennon was focus into Yoko. Harrison was looking for the future ( making a solo album) and Ringo on his acting career. Theye were never focus on the same thing.its amazing they made this songs.Billy Preston was a huge help.without him there was not Let it be album or movie.
It's so obvious that without Brian Epstein the band was fragmenting.
Twickenen didn't work for many reasons, predominately that it wasn't properly planned. Apple studios worked better because a studio was more familiar, and as George prompts before he left, you could listen back to a recording and know what was crap.
You could say that Harrison was the one who actually saved Get Back, and thus the Let it be album. When Paul was stuck saying we need someone on keyboard, yet need all of them on guitars, George pulled Preston in for a visit, and had worked on getting Preston for Apple.
Preston was the real 7th member of the Beatles lol.
@@darcnite3000 Re: "It's so obvious that without Brian Epstein the band was fragmenting." Yes, one of the moments in the film that most struck me was when Paul directly admits this.
I do think John started getting fired up being a Beatle again during the second half of these sessions. At one point he tells Paul how he can’t wait to start working in apple studios
@@johnmc3862 not Jimmy Nicol?
Hey Matt. Keep on standing up to the weirdos who won’t listen to facts and logic. The rest of us completely support you! Enjoy your insights as always. Cameron…
There may be a video on the "unhinged beatlemaniac" at some point. Thanks Cameron!
@@popgoesthe60s52 I'm on board for that! I would be extremely interested to hear your discussion of 'unhinged Beatlemaniacs.'
@@simonjames1604 I clearly stated there was strife, sniping, etc between them. You are dishonest in misrepresenting me which puts you further down the rung of the unhinged. You are now a beatle-bro, simon!
@@popgoesthe60s52 yes, I love the "kma", I cheered
@@simonjames1604 I did entire videos on these topics so I am well aware of all this Simon, and my entire audience knows it too... except you. If we, as you say, have to be honest about this, then be honest, Simon and admit what I say is true. The difference between you and I is that you are incapable of being honest. And your comment misrepresenting me are proof. There are fanboy channels more fitting to your comment. I suggest you move over there.
Very good. One temporary conclusion I would make is that the film Let it be is more about Michael Lyndsay Hogg’ s frame of mind than about the Beatles.
I agree. He seemed to be in an uncomfortable spot.
George Harrison was also one of the producers on that film!
@@TheNoisylover he interrupted recording time to keep talking about some extravagant way to shoot the ending.
He was really insistent about 2000 Arabs with Tiki torches.
The part when John started talking about Allen Klein was quite poignant for me. John was excited and looking forward to working with Allen. Most of us know what happened. Allen played a major role in putting a wedge between Paul and the other three Beatles.
Yes very interesting to see Allen Klein expected that the Beatles to stay together and it somehow he would be able to manoeuvre himself into owning the rights to their music. On the other hand Utan John George and Ringo were fairly naive and Paul McCartney has been proven in to be right in light of everything that happened subsequently. You need to be hard-nosed and you can’t just go with a gut instinct when it comes to finances
This point is interesting because by now, the Rolling Stones were having real issues with Klein's management.
who can blame John he wanted his money and Klein looked like the man to do it. Hindsight is a great thing
Seems so intuitive of Glyn Johns when he raises several times with John about how strange Klein was and how Klein would change the subject in a conversation if he didn't like the direction it was going. To me it came across as if he was clearly trying to warn them that he was suss and couldn't be trusted.
@@mimaroba9341 There were a number of people in and around their orbit who were rightly distrustful of Klein, including Paul. It's a shame they saw his resistance to the man as Paul wanting to exert his own control (it's easy to see them rolling their eyes a little bit and thinking ok Paul, whatever you say).
It was actually a couple of years until the others saw the light and realised Paul was right. In like 72/73 Paul turned down Lennon's invite to perform with him at his Madison Square Garden show because he was still palling around with Klein. A couple of months later Klein was gone.
I agree with the assessment - there should be a 2-3 hour film for casual Beatles fans, and a 60 hour version for the rest of us. The organizing of audio and video and chronology would go a lot faster if it were open source, but of course, Disney wants to make as much of a profit as they can. I disagree about Lindsay-Hogg doing a good job with camera placement on the rooftop, he almost totally cut out Preston, which I find really distasteful.
Remember, Lindsay-Hogg was doing a film about the Beatles and Billy Preston was not a member. I also wish there had been more footage of Billy Preston, but I understand that from the film makers perspective and a limited number of cameras that Billy Preston was just background. Lindsay-Hogg had just spent weeks getting to this point and his focus all along was on the four members of the Beatles.
I found Lindsay Hogg to be pretentious. He probably got lucky getting the Stones and thought he was the shit getting the Beatles. but he may be cool people now.
Ron Howard promised so much at the beginning of his making of his “Touring Years” documentary that it was extremely exciting to look forward to and, for me, he not only fell short but utterly failed. He could take a lesson from Peter Jackson who not only delivered, but delivered in abundance.
Yeah, the Ron Howard film was more saccharine than an episode of Scooby Doo. Jackson took it somewhere new and special. Howard to his film to somewhere we've all been to.
@@popgoesthe60s52 I didn't eat sweets after the Howard film. And I believe he cut out the more popular than Jesus segment and replaced it with a Whoopi Goldberg segment.
@@popgoesthe60s52 I thought Ron Howard's film, which I’ve seen numerous times because I love the content, is basically a watered down version of the "Anthology" documentary.
@@popgoesthe60s52 yes and he would have got away with it if it wasn’t for those pesky fans.
Well...I grew up with these guys and I feel like this was a gift to us more than anyone. This was so nice. You are right in the references to the old days (even In Spite of All the Danger)...for the first time, we have actually gotten to see how these songs were made all those years...from struggling with early lines thru finished products. We always heard them talk about how it was a group effort on almost all songs, but now we were there, and not a fly on the wall but I felt like I was in those studios. I am still, after a few days, still a little speechless but so glad to see that you dropped this so early. After recently hearing Paul say how lost he was right after the break-up - literal hard depression - I saw that in his face when George was gone and John was not showing up and he said, "then there were two." The deep lost look of the thoughts going through his head and the sadness that this wonderful creative bunch of guys was dissolving before his eyes brought tears to my eyes. I will be rewatching them a least a few more times, but right now it would take a lot for me to say I had seen it enough. Thanks! By the way, that night in February of 1964, as expected...nothing near this in scope!
Thank you, William. I have some re-watching to do as well.
I also grew up with these guy. I was 13 when they appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show and immediately liked their sound and over the next several years, as I matured so did their music. They always seemed to be right in step with the changes in me and the world around us. I will always miss them and still listen to their music on a regular basis.
Considering he had already written "Two of Us" & "Long & Winding Road",
he was well aware things were wrapping up.
Paul is truly amazing cat! 😽
Yes. Looked heart-strained, for sure. 💘(🎶...an arrow right through me...🎶)
(That's why his mother came into his dream.)
Dear Paul.😻🙏🎇💐⭐
Paul looked like he spent the nights crying.
I came in this film as a pedestrian, knowing only their hits and not much of their stories (but I’m a musician) and at first I felt similarly to as you said, it was slightly too long. But having watched it to the end, I felt so hooked! It was like I knew them. It encouraged me to look up news and events about them to figure out why they chose to do this and not that.
In the end, I actually went the other way. I felt like I wanted to see it all! It would be great if all the footage were lined up chronologically, audio enhanced and when there were multi-camera shots, we can choose which camera to see. Imagine how amazing that would be! Yes it probably wouldn’t be a ‘film’ anymore, more like an encyclopaedic reference for human music history but I think that could serve a very useful purpose.
On the other hand, I know my parents or wife, would have a hard time watching all the 7 hours ish of the film so I reckon a ‘hollywood’ cut would have also been nice - leaving out most of the jams and concentrating only on the story, drama, camaraderie similarly to what they did for the trailer. Although I’m not sure if that would’ve basically turned out to be another Let It Be (1970).
My favourite moment of this film has definitely got to be the hidden microphone scene. Oh my, the intensity, rawness, honesty, it was just brilliant!
What struck me most was that Yoko was almost deleted. There have been lots of comments on Twitter saying how they now see Yoko didn't break up the Beatles, she just sat there quietly minding her own business. Well if know anything of the nagra reels and you've watched Matt's other Let It Be videos you'll know there was much more input from Yoko than shown. Wasn't George's walk out due to him commenting to John something about Yoko and then causing the argument? Who brought Allen Klein to John?
Yeah the Yoko thing was downplayed. Perhaps we’ll see more on an extended version?
Yoko had to approve what was in the movie. Perhaps she made sure that her role was sanitized.
@@dennydowling2169 Jackson said he had "carte blanche" what was in or out was his decision. If Jackson though the addition of the Yoko bit took away from the focus on the band, that kind of proves the point that she took away from the focus of the band!
I think Paul gains the most with this release....He was the favorite 'Whipping Boy' of countless authors and journalists covering this period. It's truly great when actual evidence refutes biases, falsehoods, opinions, and rumors.
I think it's Yoko who's gained the most. So many comments I've seen around about her just sitting quietly and not interfering. But that's not true. Evidence is in the tapes Matt plays in his other videos for a start. And she got herself in between John and Paul and made Paul feel embarrassed to write with John. Anyway Yoko seems rather pleased with the new film apparently.
Yes I thought the same thing. Jackson supposedly texted him from NZ as he got into the material about Paul's concerns coming off as a dick and breaking up the band by being bossy. I have to say I felt a lot of sympathy for Paul because he was really the one trying to keep it all together.
my only major complaint is that I think that the songs recorded after the rooftop should be shown on it's entirety and not incomplete over the credits
also, I would prefer not to listen to interviews of people or the cops over the audio of the rooftop
Yeah, it would have been better to hear full takes of songs like Let It Be. That was my one complaint.
Clearly, they wanted to limit duplicating what’s in the “Let It Be” film, as it would devalue the film. A restored version of the film will find an outlet soon.
@@BadfingerBoogieBarb Yeah, Peter Jackson noted how he didn’t want to just overwrite Let It Be entirely, hence why the full last day performances are just in a montage.
Here here!!!
I totally agree; I do not need to hear the interviews with the people on the street or waste time with the cops etc; actually I’m surprised the rooftop performances weren’t presented as complete as possible without the split screen and where was the keeper acoustic version of Two Of Us?
Random thoughts...
After watching i have new appreciation for Paul's genius. He was really trying to work to keep things rolling. At two points the cameras stayed with him and you could tell Paul was really seething inside, he seemed both angry and sad, his eyes were welled up. I think he knew the end was near and he didn't like it.
John was hilarious,but I think he used comedy as a way not to deal with conflict. He was very passive-aggessive.
George just wanted to get on with it, very pragmatic.
Ringo was just a world unto himself.
A nice thing for me was that they called Ringo by his real name, Rich or Richy.
The first episode was way too much of just noodling. Second and third was great.
In the end I was sad that this band ended.
I enjoyed the early portion of part 3, when young Heather was in the studio - the way each showed tolerance and kindness to the child. Even John, who I assume was not naturally a person who likes children. I love it when Heather was telling John about the newly born kittens - and he responded that people eat kittens....except for the ones wiith black spots.
My highlight also
I loved seeing him tease her about the kittens
Heather observed Yoko catawauling, then later, sang like Yoko herself, as if Heather thought it was something cool to do.
@@drbassface Ha, yes, that was awesome! Paul probably laughed his ass off when he saw this during the editing process of this film.
@@tomsheets6399 Would love follow up interview with Heather
And her reactions to her clips
Billy Preston was invited by George which was not made clear. He didn’t just turn up. As soon as he came John and Paul started to behave. George did the same thing bringing Clapton in.
I would add they were all giddy and completely "behaving" one day one at Apple. Preston showed up the next day. The idea that Preston is the only reason everyone cheered up has been grossly overstated.
@@popgoesthe60s52 i agree that they were much happier at Savile Row but Billy’s arrival made John and Paul behave better.
@@popgoesthe60s52 Also prior to Preston arriving the whole group repeatedly (especially John and Paul) discussed the need for either a piano player or bass player
@@braemtes23 ‘He cheated on his wife Pattie with Eric Clapton’s wife’. That does not make sense. Clapton was not married at the time. Maybe you mean Ringo’s wife Maureen.
They probably all cheated on others all the time. It happened then and it still happens today.
George was being awkward but I think he had good reason to as he had to contend with two egos stronger than his own. Six years in the studio and touring having to kowtow to those two would have been extremely exhausting and all credit to him for putting up with it for as long as he did.
I feel like we've just watched a really long episode of Big Brother where the Beatles are the contestants. We see them at work, at play, writing songs on the hoof, eavesdrop their conversations- conversations that we have no right to hear. Just absolutely brilliant from start to finish and with only a tiny element of bias - this is probably the greatest music documentary ever made - magnificent in every way. Hats off to Peter Jackson for the quality of the footage , same to Giles Martin for the mixing of the soundtrack. Now its all over, I feel kind of empty and ready now to see a few more hours of the bits Jackson left off.
It was hard to go through the first episode being as nobody was comfortable and what ultimately happened (I'm consciously trying to avoid any spoilers! xD) But as things progressed it was heart warming to see their interactions and shed a lot of light on their relationships. They were clearly a band of brothers and it shines through in this revealing documentary.
Loved the "light bulb" moment when Billy joins them (OK! that is a sort of spoiler, sorry! ;) )
All together I think Peter Jackson has done a good job in painting a more complete picture of those sessions.
But ultimately, kudos to you for shedding just as much light on these sessions without the benefits of having all of the footage and audio to play with!
So, respect to you and thanks for the videos!
Thank you, sirPUNK!
The dark cloud of Allen Klein looming on the horizon was a downer, seeing how well they were getting on. Some more live performances might have bought them a few more years.
I could listen to YOU talk about the Beatles for 8 hours. Please keep talking!
I have to cut my own videos down! Thanks NA
@@popgoesthe60s52 I could listen to you do ten more episodes of The Association!
I'm up to the middle of the second part of Get Back. One thing I've enjoyed is the interaction between the Fabs and Mal Evans. Mal seems such a sweet person. I also have to say that, as someone who did tons of photography in my career, I've never seen anyone handle a 35mm camera quite like Linda does in this film. GREAT SERIES and Matt, your insights are wonderful and enlightening.
Hi Jim - genuine question - does she handle it well or badly? I know it's heresy, but I've never been knocked out by her photos, either their quality or composition, but have always assumed I'm missing something that 'those who know' can see. Thanks.
Thank you, Jim.
@@Robutube1 I've not seen enough of Linda's photos to say anything about their quality. The way she handled her camera in the Get Back footage I've seen appears awkward to me. That's not to say it isn't legit or effective. She may have had an instructor who guided her to use that method. I'll try to find time to revisit that Get Back footage more carefully. I was happy to notice a young man using a Nikkormat in the footage; that was a favorite of mine back in the day!
Poor Mal. Conspiracy theorists suggest IF he'd been alive, he would've been John's minder and fuckface wouldn't have been able to murder John. Mal looks like a great big teddy bear, who's just happy to be able to run out for ciggies and sandwiches for his friends. He also seems to like hitting the anvil, lololol. Poor Mal. Shot dead by the LAPD in 1976.
@@PreacherAtArrakeen That very brief moment where Mal is dancing with/for Heather while the Beatles are jamming is an awesome moment!
My 2¢ worth, yes it is long and drags in several spots, however this is probably the only opportunity we will get to peek into those 60+ hours of recordings. I’d much rather come away with too much than not enough. I think that complaint will mellow with age and this will be seen in hindsight as a masterpiece.
My other observation is the Let It Be documentary was so misleading about George and Paul’s riff. What we saw happened early on in the first week, on day 3. Yet it was made out to be the over riding atmosphere of the whole month long session which we see here it was not. It also showed Paul coming to the realization or finally speaking out loud the dynamics of the band at the time. Brian was dead so they no longer had a manager to tell them do this or do that. Paul states John had always been the band leader with Paul as the second leader. With Brian gone and John being pulled away by outside influences (Yoko, heroin) Paul felt he had to step up for two years. But he admits that he understood why George got so irritated at him because he micromanaged everything. That it was not only that but that George was now a songwriter too where in the past it was only John and Paul and whoever wrote a given song was in charge of the sessions on them. That George was given a free hand to fill in his guitar parts but Paul was telling him what to play now. Then they rejected I Me Mine and George said f*ck it. It showed Paul admitting to himself and the others he recognized why George was unhappy and his own part in that. So the three got together and met with George twice to get him back. When he came back Paul was much less bossy and dismissive of George and Ringo too. George appeared to be content for the remainder of the month. George was the one who invited Billy down. I suspect he remembers the calming influence Clapton brought to the Weeps sessions and maybe thought Billy could have the same effect. Although he couldn’t have known Billy would become the 5th Beatle and so involved in the rest of the project..
Unfortunately, that did not stop it. By the time Abby Road was finished John and George were both mad at Paul (and at each other too) for the underhanded way Paul brought in the lawyers from the Eastman company to break up the band and split the assets. Remember John had brought in Alan Klein, or at least defended him because he sponsored an art exhibit for Yoko and paid for it out of Apple.
In summary, people forget this wasn’t their last album that capped off the break up. That was Abbey Road because Let It Be was delayed when they let Phil Spector produce and edit it. He took so long and added so much to the tracks the band was finished before it hit the record stores.
Oh yeah, and Yoko didn’t split up the band by sitting on an amplifier like the rumors said!! 😂😂
Your 2¢ worth is worth a heck of a lot more! An excellent read, especially as you point out how quickly the band appeared, shone like supernova and then they were gone, boys became adults. It is a wonderful, amazing story and no, my wife can't fathom my emotional attachment either lol! I can explain it but not today. Peace.
@@TomWats0n thanks. I’m 65 and was lucky enough to see them in Memphis in 1966. George even references Memphis and The Philippines on being treated poorly. I was young enough (10 yrs) to not have understood about the backlash over the more popular than Jesus statement or the threats by the KKK. I just remember all the screaming girls! Luckily my wife was as big a Beatles fan as I am.
Been following you for your Beatles content and love it! Keep those “flat-earth “ fans on their toes. As a songwriter I enjoyed the song building process and the incredible effort put into each song.
Hey Jack, those flat earthers are going to be a little more quiet with films like this to dispel myth!
@@popgoesthe60s52 I doubt that the film will do anything to quiet them down or that the will see their myths as being dispelled. Conspiracy theorists are nothing if not persistent in their beliefs.
I still want the entire rooftop performance in its entirety without the street chatter or even the police. Just want a full version uninterrupted, much like the Shea Stadium performance that was remastered for Ron Howard's film which will probably be in litigation for eternity. I love them live and I just was hoping for an unabated version. Might be in the minority but that was my thought
I have had a cd of the whole rooftop concert for decades, but I'm sure you're looking for video, right?
@@rumblehat4357 yes I would prefer the whole video of it straight through
Brian Ernst yes, that would be nice to have.
Excellent analysis--I especially enjoyed your dismantling of all the "flat-earth Beatle fans". I also agree that this project really is most suited to the very serious Beatles fan. Does that mean it's too long? (What? Peter Jackson made a film that's too long? Say it isn't so!!) I don't think so. As I watched, I thought to myself, sure a die-hard Beatle fan is going to enjoy this, but any serious musician who is curious about the process involved in making music from scratch and getting ready for an important gig is going to enjoy it too. If you're not interested in those things, it's hard to see how even a two-hour version would satisfy the casual viewer, since apart from the history and the artistic creation going on there isn't much of a "plot" to speak of. On the cops going into the Apple building, Craig Brown reports in his book "150 Glimpses of the Beatles" ("One Two Three Four" in the UK) that the cops took their time because they really liked the Beatles and didn't want to stop the show--it was apparently some higher ranking guy back at the precinct who was ordering them to shut it down.
Looking back on the Twickenham period, was anyone else amazed to watch overhead as Paul thumped away on his Hofner bass and "birthed" the song that would become Get Back?! It was just Paul, zoning off in his head, thumping a rhythm on his bass, as Ringo and George looked on, listened, and began to get into what he was creating. Ringo claps along, and George slowly eases into a guitar part. It was just an incredible moment to watch as Paul displayed his genius.
well, that's pretty much how every song gets written, by anyone. Starts with a flimsey idea, then you add to it, then add some some more; gradually builds up until you got half of something. Then etc. It's not too-too amazing to see a song get developed like that; but it is fun (and pretty rare) to see that captured on camera.
That moment when he stamps his heel, restarts and this time the song's there, the extraneous stuff is there, and we've got "Get Back".
@@kevinmcinerney1959 you can't fob off the guys pure genius...the creative juices flowing...mind blowing
I still say that Yoko had less to do with being a catalyst for the Beatle Breakup than Allen Klein. I think the Klein situation was far more damaging to the Beatles than Yoko. And the fact that Paul had to, according to law, actually sue John, George and Ringo to remove himself from the group. And that in itself was a the biggest insult and most damaging thing to their personal relationship. Then the lawyers and money. Klein hypnotized the 3 and Paul saw past his bullsh*t. I think the group was going to go their separate ways regardless. But the mess we see in retrospect, in my opinion, was a result of Klein interceding.
I never have believed the original Let It Be film was a documentary of a breakup as so many people tagged it as. And the new Peter Jackson cut pretty much proves that. Gosh, what an amazing group they were. There will never be another Beatles, the stars were all aligned just once and we were gifted this great music.
Time would prove Paul was right from the beginning about Allen Klein. He was George Harrison lawyer in process about "My Sweet Lord" and switched sides in the middle of case...
I got to spend 8 hours with The Beatles. I am extremely grateful to Peter Jackson and his crew. I was actually sad when it ended, I wanted to keep hanging out with those guys.
I have watched all 3 episodes , one each day, lingering and taking my time absorbing what I witnessed. ITS JUST UNBELIEVABLY GOOD! This kind of fullfills a lifelong fantasy of mine to be in the room watching the Beatles work, joke, discuss and peform. From the viewpoint of a musician its priceless...and illuminating in seeing the actual way the songs were arranged. I could write pages but I will stop there! Thank You for your previews of a lot of the Nagra reels!
Thank you! I appreciate the comment.
The length was perfect; the"casual fan" can watch the trailer if they want a concise version. Lindsay-Hogg was pretty annoying continually pushing the live show. My main criticism is not playing Yoko in band discussions while John remained silent. Not to bash Yoko, it was just fascinating when you played it.
On the other hand, watching The Beatles work, and the inner workings of a recording studio was fantastic Glyn Johns and Mal Evans were definite co-stars. Special mention to Jimmy the Door Man and Debbie.
Oh, the Peter Sellers segment seemed awkward for everyone.
For Lindsey-Hogg, his heart was in the right place bc he wanted to be prepared. That said, he and the crew were too pushy of the amphitheater idea, they are even seen twisting Ringo's arm for the idea even after he said he wanted to stay in England. That was unnecessary
Regarding Sellers, he couldn't possibly have known what he was walking into. If it was a week earlier, I'm sure it would've been better. But unfortunately it was the wrong tome to expect happiness and laughter from the moptops
Was a shame that Billy Preston was mostly invisible on the rooftop.
It was so interesting to see Glyn Johns warn Lennon about Alan Klein very subtly. "He's a bit weird isn't he?". He clearly knew he was trouble! Lennon was blinded
I've been in the same band for over 10 years. We are like brothers when we get together. We share stories about what is going on, ww laugh, joke, and we argue. That's what brothers do. Like Jackson said, they weren't breaking up when this was going on. That was 17 months later. A lot more shit had gone down by then.
Anyone who ever played in a band has been a part of these same conversations.
@@daviddebord499 You bet. Between me and the drummer, we've each said "screw it" and walked out only to show up the following week and start playing again.
The Greatest Band Story Ever Told.
When Billy Preston worked his magic on those songs it was fascinating how everything came together. It's like he was the glue when George brought him in.
Indeed, it's incredible how much he contributed to the songs. It's hard to imagine the songs without his organ playing.
Yes it was stunning how the atmosphere lifted as soon as Billy started to play!
Eight hours is not long enough!
If there are people who don't have sufficient attention span to watch geniuses at work, that's their problem.
I'm so glad they made it more for Beatles fans than casuals.
I’m on my second go around. I wish there was more. I absorbed every word. I haven’t had a thanksgiving that transformed my mind since Kennedy now comes this. I will forever remember this thanksgiving as the get back weekend! Thank you Beatles. My life’s background sound track.
Anyone following this channel wouldn't have been surprised by the film. Thanks for all your videos during the run up to the release! The Twickenham sessions show the different sides to Lennon, with his initial dismissal of I Me Mine, while he was supportive during All Things Must Pass (then later name checked both tracks on Dig It). Such a real shame the band didn't try All Things Must Pass on the 31 Jan session, as it would have been perfect as a video performance. A real highlight was Gimme Some Truth with Paul, while the introduction of Billy Preston is just magic!
Agreed. They did do a run though of Must Pass on the last day but it was recorded poorly, or at lease the version I have is poor.
@@popgoesthe60s52 John especially throughout seems to be encouraging George, offering shout-outs of his songs, really making an effort to show him both encouragement and respect as a contributing member.
Lennon's level of commitment is incredible- especially in Apple Studios.
I genuinely teared up when they started turning the guitar Amps off on the roof and Paul and Ringo continued playing and George just went and turned his amp back on and they finished the song... It was beautiful and that was the defining moment of that performance in my eye's... The greatest documentary I've ever seen... Just beautiful in more ways than we couild imagine.
Our feeble minds do a good job of discussing it all but in truth, we have no fucking clue what it felt like to be the beatles but my god, as a fellow scouser, am I proud of them... Such a shame Alan Klein got involved and John in the midst of all his "change the world bollocks" was easily sold to a fucking con man and the rest of the band knew it... But ultimately this whole story had to unfold the way it did and this documentary just proves that artists working with freedom is the greatest gift on earth and the death of artistic freedom is exactly what will keep the beatles at the top of the list of legendary artists who changed the world more than any protest in history.
P. S. Mate, your channel is great, nice one! Keep up the good work!
GEORGE: Maybe we should have a divorce.
JOHN: Who’d have the children?
PAUL: Dick James.
JOHN: Oh, yeah.
John and Paul were great here. XD
What a gift this was to us beatle fans. It was a solid 10!
I loved it. Gorged on the three episodes all Sunday. However, by the end I reckon I could have played the rooftop set, having listened to the songwriting process for so long. But honestly, I didn't want it to stop, in the hope that if the video didn't stop, then the Beatles would still be here, especially John & George. What a loss.
Top moment for me was Paul mucking around in Twickenham and ending up with Get Back. What an extraordinary window into an extraordinary musician.
I was glad to hear them all mentioning "Mr Epstein". They were struggling deep down to keep this going. This was NOT A DISNEY film. I see it as 3 parts. Twickenham, was probably the DOWN side of these movies. The Abbey road part was so amazing. I CRINGED when I heard John mention the KLEINOSAUR - destroyer of the Beatles. I wanted to yell, DON'T DO IT John, you'll be really sorry. ha ha ha The live show was so amazing., Whiniony business goofs: "there's certainly a time and place for all this". hysterical. Sargent Dave seemed to NOT want to stop them playing, but he had to. I'm a life time fan, yes LOVE ME DO/P.S. I LOVE YOU, over 55 years - it made me want more. I think it was the BREAK they NEEDED, but not necessarily what We wanted. Nice review. The 6 hours is overwhelming and gratifying.. THANKS SO MUCH FOR YOUR REVIEW.
I think it's becoming more and more apparent through the releases of Geils Martin's remixes and Peter Jackson's Get Back that the Beatles' break up album wasn't the White LP nor Let It Be, but rather Abbey Road. Geils said there was no evidence of multiple studios being used by the group until Abbey Road and Get Back somehow shows us that, even though they were going through some rough times (ie John's heroin use, the Allen Klein stuff, George's need to have more say in his solos, etc), they continued to love and support each other.
Me as well am considering the making of Abbey Road to have been the real hurdle for them. We even hear George mentioning, that he wanted to put out a solo album, but was fine with continuing the Beatles. That was one of the biggest surprises for me.
By all accounts they spent much of their time in different studios during the making of the white album and that it was the most tense and stressful album to make
@@Gremunky not necessarily, they were pressed for time because they wanted the White LP finished and released before Christmas. That’s the main reason they worked in separate studios. Yes I’m sure there was some tension floating about as well.
It has to be one of the greatest things I've ever seen. It warmed my heart seeing Ringo Starr come up with Octopus Garden. That may be the main reason why I'm a Beatles fan, my Preschool teacher made us learn that song and The Yellow Submarine.
I could honestly just watch the full 60 hours of footage, I can never get enough of them.
It was amazing seeing them come up with songs from scratch. I love when they just sing gibberish because they don't know what words to use yet. I enjoyed every second of this documentary.
The biggest treat for me was hearing those really early songs they never recorded. I love hearing them, one of my favorite songs from John lennon is "I'm in Love", so I always get excited when I hear anything unreleased.
I wonder what Michael Lindsay-Hoggs original vision really was, it seems like he was probably told what to do with the footage, they used almost none of the good footage for the actual "Let It Be" Documentary.
I think the Beatles steamrolled Hogg. He was young too, so he didn't have the resume to really dictate.
Peter Jackson in his commentary on the Get Back project said that he asked Paul, Ringo, Olivia, and Yoko about the length of the project and they gave their approval of the length of the film and Jackson said he was ready to cut it down but they consensus of the group was to leave it at the length. As a side note if Lennon, McCartney, and Ringo had been thinking of breaking up would they been making comments of asking Clapton (as a replacement if George did not return) and adding Billy Preston as a fifth Beatle. If they thought it was the end of the group then why were those comments made? Then literally less than a month later they are back in the studio starting what would be the Abbey Road album with 14 more new songs.
As I rewatched Get Back i realized something i had missed. While George was working on "Something" John had commented on just put anything in until the right words come (or something to that extend) while George was trying to fingure the right words for Something in the way she moves attracts me like a ????. John had suggested using pomegranate till the right words came. This is mirrored in John later singing in the back ground for the song "Get Back" when he says "Sweet Lorretta Modern though she was a cleaner but she was a frying pan". This hit me as an insight to how John would craft a song. i find it interesting how John used markers to fill in the lyrics until he found the words he was looking for
One neat throwback moment was John asking about the Hare Krishna guy, saying 'Who's the old man'? - and Paul chiming in, 'He's quite clean.'
I liked the way Jackson foreshadowed that with the 'Hard Day's Night' excerpt in the opening montage.
@@CathalBui wow! Nice catch
I always knew Paul was a genius, but PJ's Get Back completely reaffirmed this. Great review as well!
Another thing I love is that after all these years, it's still up to John to declare that Billy is "in the group."
Michael Lindsey Hogg is the ultimate hero for this
My perception was Paul was far too micromanaging the others' instruments on his songs. --- It's Ringo Starr, George Harrison and John Lennon for Christ's sake. Let them figure out their own parts, like they allow Paul to do. Notice, he never dared tell Billy Preston what to do on keys. Also... w/o Brian Epstein, Paul became the defacto manager and made some poor project decisions (in retrospect)... like chaining the Beatles to a 14-song live show album tv thing that they had to write and record in only 17-20 days was a rather insane self-inflicted wound. It may have made for a great documentary 50 years later, but it wasn't necessary to put that kind of pressure and weight on the band. Ultimately though... they broke up and ended things perfectly. They didn't go on too long. They left while fans still wanted more. They left on top. And the material that came out Let it Be and Abbey Road was fantastic and legendary. Paul didn't know it at the time, but he was leading the Beatles to an appropriate and necessary ending, while his intention was trying to keep them together.
We see prags hating on the rooftop interviews but they're there for a reason. They give a much needed "man-on-the-street" perspective of history in action. (Literally)
DON'T BE A BABA BOOEY! Enjoy the movie!
'Allusions to the past': We have to remember that this is only 8 years after Hamburg, only 6 years after the last cavern performance. We need to step back and remember (ourselves) that this whole Beatles phenomenon only happened over the course of less than 7 years. It seems like so much more but so much happened in such a short period of time that it's not surprising that they call back to things that happened such a short time ago in their lives. The 'new' songs: I think naming them/claiming copyright was done more recently for the purposes of this film. I've listened to the NAGRA tapes too and read all the books and these were listed as 'jams', not given proper names and writing credits. I agree with your comments. I thought I knew everything about this month and I'm happy to admit I was wrong. We should be thankful that PJ is such a fan, that he presented us with the subtleties and detail that is important to the whole Beatle mythology. Favourite moments for me: Paul almost falling over during rooftop "I've Got A Feeling" and Maureen geeking out like a true fan!
Good point on claiming copyright on the 'jams." I wonder who named them? Loved seeing Maureen rock out.
Thoroughly enjoyed all 8 hours. Being from Melbourne, Australia I was able to watch each episode as it began streaming, 7pm, each evening. It was exciting watching it 'live'. As a gold card carrying Beatles fan for 50 years this was my first opportunity to live with them, get to know them, I've never felt or had this privileged experience before, who has? As many have said, it really did feel as if we were there, and they were our friends for a few days. Now I feel flat without them:)(: Matt, did you know that on Disney+ is also a new PM 6 part documentary "McCartney 3,2,1". Fascinating 3 hours of dissecting and listening to multi tracks of Beatles and solo songs. If you haven't seen it, make sure you do so before you cancel your monthly Disney+ :)
Yes! After watching "Get Back" twice (yes: I waited until I could binge watch the full series, and yes: after a brief pause I realised I couldn't leave it at that - so I watched it all over again) I suffered from a severe case of Beatles withdrawal. What saved me was finding that lovely 6 part documentary "McCartney 3, 2, 1" where he and producer Rick Rubin do a deep dive into some of his songs.
What I got from that group hug when George quit, was that they were genuinely hurt and in emotional distress. Sort of like a child running to his mother to comfort a boo boo. (That's not a criticism). Then they were seen dealing with it in a healthy way by some tom foolery (Paul climbing the scaffold). Very human and heart warming reaction.
I would watch all 57 hours of this. 57 episodes. Thats about 3 seasons. The original Reality TV. Leave no doubt of what really happened.. It's a treasure trove of hidden gems. It's not for the "casual" Beatles fan. At 15:43 you said it was "too long" . Why the heck do you want to cut it down to 6 or 2hrs? Why do you give so much weight to the "casual" Beatles fan. This documentary was the biggest gift to hardcore fans since 1994 Anthology. Your channel is 70% Beatles content yet you want a flood of unseen Beatles footage cut-down. That's counter intuitive. You're obviously a hardcore fan and you've read a lot of Beatles books as we all have. There are people out there who LIVED and loved this era in REAL-TIME. I'm certain they'll want to see every millimeter of this 57 hours if possible. I think I can finally throw away my grainy looking "Let It Be" film on VHS.
Maybe though consider, that with Peter Jackson being a huge fan, he’s made the film for other huge fans. There’s a ton of Beatles documentaries for the casuals to watch if they haven’t already, it’s about time something like this is released for the fans who just wish to be a fly on the wall.
Great review🖒for me i was in beatle heaven. The best review is to watch it yourself and watch it again over time for a true review, time changes how we feel about everything and its 52 years from that time.😩
I can't tell you how much of gift this docuseries was. It shows us a whole different side of the band that was permutated by the press, and even the boys themselves. From the off, they started the project with enthusiasm, jamming like old school friends, keeping each other's spirits up, joking around like boys do while giving each other earnest feedback, and enjoying each other's company throughout it. It's too bad those flat-earther Beatles fans still think it was the beginning of their break up. Just try to convince me of that!
Mal Evans was also the producer of Badfinger for first couple albums, snd in 1982 I talked with Tom Evans of Badfinger snd he talked a bit about Mal saying “he was a Lovely man”
Everybody loved Mal.
Another great video, Matt. The “Two Junkies” clip wasn’t CBS but CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation). I agree with you concerning the length. Even as an Beatles’ obsessive, I found myself exhausted and burnt out by the sheer repetition of takes.
With the amount of research you’ve done, I am curious to learn what disagreements you have with either the choices Peter Jackson made in regard to the evidence presented or his interpretations implied in this documentary. What different choices would you have made or events emphasized.
Lastly, the video content made me reevaluate my initial impression of John Lennon. If my memory serves, I thought Lennon was a dick on the nagra tapes, but the visual content makes me view him as more of a high energy spaz being goofy.
Lennon is certainly animated and at times, too goofy for my tastes, because there was work to be done. As for what I disagree with, I thought some scenes simply dragged and weren't always needed to continue the story. I though Jackson should have emphasized All Things Must Pass more. Showing one part of 71 takes is a missed opportunity to show how much they worked on that. Did the Harrison estate weigh in on that? I don't know. But it doesn't appear on the 5 LP set either. Conspicuous in its absence. There is a lengthy part where Yoko is inserting herself when discussing the live show where she is condescending and pushy. Part of that should have been included. Several commenters here have said, "Yoko didn't break up the Beatles any more than Linda, Heather, or Magic Alex." I disagree with that. I also thought the subtitles could have been more consistent. Sometimes his used them, sometimes he didn't. I thought he could have spaced out the dialog a bit more at Twinckenham but that would have meant needing more video to cover the dialog, which he was low on. Those are my quick thoughts.
@@popgoesthe60s52 i agree about the sparse subtitles Matt, i opted to watch most of the doc with subtitles (closed caption) to ON. I felt i got more out of the conversations, like - when george told john his songs were shit several times in week 2..
Wow… A lot to absorb in this series, I’m gonna take a few days break, and come back and watch it over again - probably several times. I thought Peter Jackson did a great job with this - just using the existing footage, no new interviews or commentary, just a little bit of titles to explain what was going on at times. I like the chronological day by day approach, too. My only complaint is that we didn’t get complete uncut performances of songs like two of us, the long and winding road, dig it etc. I’m hoping when they put the DVD package out, all performances - including the rooftop concert - get put out in their entirety, without cutaways to the street etc. As a bonus disc?
If you have ever been in a band, you know this is what it looks like.. nothing more, nothing less. And if you are breaking up, you don't stop playing or creating until the last gig is done.
From Nebraska; was going to drive to St. Louis to see them. Then thought that perhaps they would come closer the next year? Last tour!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Shit
This doc series is a revelation. Yeah, I’m much more than a casual fan… this series profoundly changes the narrative I grew up with. This series is AMAZING!
There was a scene after Billy Preston first arrived, and I think they were rehearsing Don't Let Me Down. McCartney's eyes almost bug out when he first hears that smooth, soulful electronic keyboard added in. It really transformed that song.
Watched all 3 episodes, 3 times now, and it's fabulous! I stand corrected, it's a masterpiece! I just had to put on the subtitles and pause every now and then, pure gold!
I enjoyed your review (I don't usually watch too many of these types of review videos), and I think you hit all the major points. You really sold the documentary, and I would recommend people watching your video who haven't seen the new film, or for those who don't want to watch it because they envision it being too depressing or being a revisionist film. I can't believe how many people refuse to watch it just because it was being shown on the Disney streaming site. As you said, this is NOT a Disney production, they just distributed it, and had no say about any of the content.
One thing I have to disagree with you about is that, as a "casual" Beatles fan, I didn't think it was too long. I would have watched another 2 or 3 hours. But maybe that's because I'm a musician and a songwriter, and I found The Beatles songwriting process absolutely riveting and inspiring. The whole "fly-on-the-wall" thing, watching well known Beatles songs actually being created from nothing. And I'm sure for hardcore Beatles fans, this was like finding the holy grail. We are actually watching significant musical history in the making.
For me, I find the Beatles history....their story, their biography, just as fascinating as I enjoy listening to their music....maybe more so? There's no other rock band that had more influence in modern music than the Beatles. And to study the four individuals who made this history is endlessly fascinating to me.
So thanks for making this review. You did a great job doing your homework and in your presentation. In some ways I liked it better than the 4 hour TH-cam video/podcast done with Peter Jackson. Listening to Jackson speak for 4 straight hours got on my nerves, because of the fast/mumbling way he talks. He had interesting things to say, but he's not a great public speaker. Maybe he should write a book about his experiences?
I am a relatively hardcore fan but my sister is more of a casual fan and we watched all 8 hours and she said she was sad when it was over. The fact it's split into 3 parts makes it much more manageable
This is for real fans. I don't know any casual fan, or anyone who just likes their music who is going get through 8 hours. For us, 8 hours felt like 2. Every moment is worth it. Thank you Mr Jackson. What a great job. For me, and I think to many others....it is absolutely the perfect length.
Watching Paul literally pull Get Back out of the air in Part 1 while George and Ringo watch is the most amazing thing. Creative miracles were happening before our eyes. John is so sweet and funny and no one seems to mind Yoko there at all. All they needed was cold toast and some wine for George in the afternoon. You can see the love between the 4 everywhere here which makes sense. How in the world would they have been able to go in and finish the tracks for Abbey Road without it?
The difference in the George and Paul argument is in this documentary...it is shown in proper sequence. The movie has it placed for dramatic effect. Here it happens...they get over it and they create together. Is there still some strain, yes, but it isnt the overwhelming theme. In the two unrecorded meetings before he returns, George seems to change enough to come in with happier attitude. They love John through the codependency with Yoko and drugs. Paul even explains John and Yoko being together all the time in such a compassionate way. Paul also complains about "being the dad." George seems to not like being on camera very much. Often, he looks directly at it and gets quiet. But it doesn't stop his brand of genius. For You Blue is done in 2 takes? Amazing.
The director, Michael Lindsey Hogg seems annoying in Part 1 (Can you image the nightmare that would have been Libya?) and overwhelmed/resigned in the other parts. He is not getting the movie he wanted with the great big show and audience at the end. John snaps at him when they first enter the roof and I think that about sums up how well that was going. The great thing he did? He kept the cameras rolling so today we have this.
Unsung heroes:
George Martin. Did everyone but me know he was there for the entire time? He adds a calm and steady input that seems to help immensely. I do think they feel he is an EMI spy at times, making sure they get work done, but by in large his is a very good presence.
Mal Evans. That man gets everything from equipment to shoes to cigarettes. Writing the lyrics down and making suggestions, anvil playing (which we knew) and so much more. Not to mention police control!
Billy Preston. We knew he added so much to the music but the feeling he brings in by uplifting the sessions is priceless. John seems to love him and when John is happy, everyone seems happier.
This was better than I think any of us could have dreamt. So grateful to the Beatle Family for bringing this out.
I think that’s quite a deep insight - when John is happy everyone is happier. He’s the psychic leader of the band and he’s been absent - avoiding that ‘boss’ role - focusing on self-preservation as he says to Paul in the cafeteria
I really enjoyed all three of the installments. One of my favorite parts was seeing how they four of them (and Mal) interacted so wonderfully when little Heather came to the studio. She was so adorable. "Cats don't taste good!" And John with, "You never eat cats with black spots."
By the way, a cool side piece to this would be just doing a performance video of the rooftop without all the interspersing of the police and crowd. It works in the movie and I get the dramatic timing of it but it would also be neat as a separate thing to have consolidated footage of just the performance.
I first viewed “Let It Be” at Chicago Beatlefest in 1979 (and I probably had permanent hearing damage from sitting in the only available seat which was immediately next to the huge PA speaker.). I was captivated then and over the succeeding 40+ years by this (my favorite) Beatles “era.” I was more than a little anxious over Jackson’s re-edit, but I have enjoyed every single minute (and there are a LOT of minutes.). The best part for me was watching it alongside my 24-year old daughter, who has become my inheritor of Beatles appreciation and knowledge. Thanks for all of your videos adjacent to this project. It’s rare when I can learn something new (no album title pun intended) about the Beatles, but your channel has repeatedly done just that. Now…I wonder if the Niles Public Library still has that copy of “The Longest Cocktail Party” by Apple house hippy, Richard DiLello?
I have the first edition of the longest cocktail party..amazing book!
Screw the “casual fan”. I was as excited waiting on this as I was as a child waiting on Christmas morning.
It was AMAZING!!
Particularly loved hearing them all refer to Ringo as Rich.