Let It Be was the last movie and album released by the Beatles. In actuality they had already broke up when each were released. The movie satisfied their three feature movies under their contract. The movie was actually mainly based on Paul's idea, as he was the main force of the Beatles at this time. The Beatles had decided to make a live album as they felt they were doctoring their songs too much in the studio. The original idea was the a movie would show them rehearsing songs and the progress they make. Then there would be a live show, first one since 1966, and a record would be made from that show. There were numerous problems with this plan. First of all, the Beatles often overdid their songs trying to acheive the best live song for the album, secondly, they were rehearsing in Twickenham studios which provided an uncomfortable environment. Also they could not agree upon a place to do the live show, as it had to be huge and comfortable for them, and George didn't want to play live at all. Lastly, and most important, were the tensions that existed between the Beatles. At this time, things were very tense and Ringo and George each walked out at least once. John was preoccupied with Yoko and didn't want to be there and Paul was bossing everyone around. They had grown and changed so much that working together was stifliing and unbearable for many reasons.
Billy Preston was brought in to relieve the tensions and provide a keyboardist as everything was done live. He helped tame the atmostphere and provided some great keyboard work.
The movie I have not seen as it has been unavailable for some time. I have seen parts of it on the anthology however, and read extensively about it. The video is not much more than just watching the Beatles rehearse, which is an interesting idea. But very apparent from the beginning is the tension. The tension was very visible during one scene between Paul and George as Paul was telling George how he wanted a song played. George then stated, "I'll play whatever you want me to play, or I won't play at all. Whatever it is that will PLEASE you, I'll do it". John's preoccupation with Yoko is also obvious as she was there at all times. In one part they even waltz to one of the songs.
Apart from all the tension the songs are quite good and it is interesting. The highlight of the movie is the rooftop performance (they decided their live concert would be on top of the roof of Apple). The aggravation is not as apparent and the Beatles look like they really enjoy being there. The music is superb as well. The performance was interrupted by the police who told the Beatles to turn it down and later to stop. None of them wanted to, and on the anthology Paul references the police and possible arrest when he says, "You've been playin' on the roofs again, and that's no good. Cuz you know your mama doesn't like that. She gets angry, gonna have you ARRESTED". The Beatles did eventually stop playing, and there were no arrests made.
The movie would most likely be worthwhile to see, and many Beatles fans await it availability. As many downfalls as it has, it contains an important part of the Beatles history. |
