How to describe “YESTERDAY” – not an easy task…
In one sense it’s a musical fantasy comedy. In other, a rockin’ rom-com.
Whatever it is, it works and could become one of the sleeper hits of this year’s summer season.
“YESTERDAY” finds former teacher and now struggling singer-songwriter Jack Malik’s (Himesh Patel) dreams of fame rapidly fading.
All the while his longtime (girl) friend Ellie Appleton (Lily James) lends endless support at his side.
Then it happens. Jack finds himself involved in a freak accident which occurs during a mysterious global blackout.
What he wakes up to is a completely Beatles-free world.
Nobody’s seems to have ever heard of the group. And now trying to google the Beatles only brings up “Beetles,” as in bugs.
The same holds true for cigarettes (what’s that?) and Coca-Cola. (All everyone knows is Pepsi.)
Now what?
You guessed it. With Ed Sheeran (as himself) Jack, in a frenzy to remember all the famous Beatles’ songs, becomes a musical sensation as he pretends to write and perform them worldwide.
One hit after another that no one had ever heard before.
It’s a race to fame now under the management of Debra Hammer played to the hilt by SNL’s Kate McKinnon who almost steals the show.
What can I tell you?
A few of the ins-and-outs of the story could have been better explained. But in the able hands of director Danny Boyle (“Slumdog Millionaire”) this movie WORKS!
And the great musical soundtrack is the icing on the cake—and makes that film.
From the small intimate playing of hits such as “Let It Be” to the thunderous performances in venues such as Wembley Stadium. What a trip!
I would hate to think of the cost to obtain the music clearances by the production company.
But whatever the price, they got their money’s worth.
And yes, there was hardy applause following our screening.
So do yourself a favor and don’t miss this bundle of cinematic joy called ‘YESTERDAY”!
You’ll thank me for it tomorrow. It opens wide on this weekend.
“YESTERDAY” grades a: B
Sounds very cool.