Review! BEATLES 64 Disney+ Documentary!

[@paulf6973]

Peter Jackson already demonstrated that there was an audience out there happy to spend 8 hours with The Beatles in 1969, free from outside commentary and footage. Why not just remaster and expand The First US Visit?

[@matthewstreet1961]

Exactly! 👍 🎶❤️🍻🎅🎄🎵🎼

[@richbailey8174]

That's pretty much all it is

[@fastfoodreviewandelvistoo]

My Mother was a music teacher. Highly educated musician. She said to me once , “it’s mind boggling how much music they wrote and how beautiful the music was”….. I replied, “they did 100 years worth of work in 7 years” … The Beatles can’t really be explained, they were a phenomenon of epic genius and proportions. There will never be a Beatles again. It was Harry Potter stuff, it was magic 🪄

[@matthewstreet1961]

You nailed it!! 🎵🎼👍🎅🎄❤️

[@fastfoodreviewandelvistoo]

@ thank you!

[@wink853]

I am 20/30 minutes into and had no problem turning it off and walking away. I’d rather watch The BeaTles First US Visit any day of the week.

[@matthewstreet1961]

My sentiments exactly! 👍 🎼❤️🍻🎄🎅🎶🎵

[@machiel5888]

I was really floored by how great this Doc was. I think it captures the electricity of the time and the personalities of the four members in a way that I haven't seen another Documentary do before. I guess I haven't seen the other docs you mention. I should look into them.

[@adrianmist6681]

Yes you should definitely look those other documentaries, this one is just a taste of what you will get.

[@mjemigh3304]

Matthew, if you are reading this, it's precisely what I meant in my comments. I bet this guy is 45, tops. He's the market for the film. And note: it made him want to do further exploration. Does it get any better?

[@matthewstreet1961]

So glad you enjoyed it. I just didn’t. 🎵🎄❤️🍻🎅🎼🎶

[@tommymaguire2839]

Anyone else notice the Strawberry Fields-esque melody that Dr. Winston O'Boogie seems to be working out on the melodian?

[@cheerdown87]

I think this documentary just feels like some bonus material to the already excellent Beatles 1st Visit...glad you mentioned it, because it's been years since I've seen it. Would love to see that remastered for sound with the Coliseum concert through Jackson's tech.

[@teresabenson6087]

I wonder if they will release a Blu ray of The Beatles First US visit with the restored footage? 🙏

[@MeanMrMayo]

Matt, I am inclined to mostly agree with you. Especially about the lack of music and the choppiness. I hope that came across in my review.

[@mjemigh3304]

We've been in the music video and video game generation for quite a while, now. Expect those choppy cuts to go on for a while. I long for the days when John Ford and Hitchcock could go five minutes or more without an edit, but those days are long gone. Audiences just don't have that attention span anymore. -MJ

[@timothyflyte9443]

Nice hearing these reviews on KZbin. I'm glad I didn't get Disney to see it.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Saw your review, still must comment, we are pretty close on this one. 🎼🎵🍻🎅🎄❤️🎶

[@Stickermania2853]

Matthew, watched the documentary earlier today. Had to have a box of tissue by my side. So emotional watching all that remastered video of greatness. Mr Stickermania

[@matthewstreet1961]

Glad you enjoyed it, my friend. Yes I experienced a couple of emotional moments here and there having to do with the Beatles specifically. But the documentary as a whole is a borefest in my opinion. But I’m glad you liked it.❤️🍻🎼🎶🎵🎅🎄

[@mattgregory971]

Hello Matt! Well I just watched the 64 documentary it was not bad. Just a plane interview documentary with fans at the time and with Paul and Ringo. And everyone who was associated with the group. It would been nice to see full clips. Of the songs. If you want a better version The first US visit is much better plus the songs are not interrupted. So with documentary. And The Beatles 1964 mono albums reissue it all comes together very nicely! Great Review Matt I agree with you on this! Have a good one.

[@JimmyNotes]

"The Beatles: First US Visit" always felt like a movie made with real footage. It was real life "A Hard Days Night".

[@zsatsfm]

Thanks for your honest review Matt. One thing I dislike is when footage gets interrupted by talking heads and they don't show Beatle songs in their entirety...grrr! You've saved me the money of subscribing to Disney+.

[@gringo557]

Yup, I really hate interrupted songs, it irks me to no end . . .

[@mjemigh3304]

Understood but, as I pointed out in MY comment, it's apparent that decisions were made as both artistic and current audience appeal choices. I fully respect the filmmakers' choices. Meanwhile, I'll prefer to watch the original. Oh, and this is the second time I've subscribed to Disney+ for a free trial. First time was "Get Back." I'll cancel after watching this once more. Just sayin'.

[@Thomas-qr3zv]

Some concert songs were done in their entirety

[@matthewstreet1961]

Exactly! 🎼❤️🍻🎄🎅

[@Thomas-qr3zv]

The cool thing is with the latest technology available is the concert footage just gets better and better

[@beatleytonesbeatleschannel]

Great review Matt. Well thought through and balanced opinions here my friend.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Thanks Tony! Always appreciate hearing from you! 🎶🎄🎅❤️🍻🎵🎼

[@GastonBulbous]

i just watched this film tonight, and I think the point of the filmmakers was not to tell the story of the Beatles for the umpteenth time but to make a documentary about America's response to the Beatles and the role all the fangirling played in creating the global Beatlemania phenomenon. This is a film about the fan relationship with the Beatles. With that in mind, I loved seeing all the 1964 boomer teens in New York talking about and reacting to the Beatles. I wasn't as keen for the elderly boomers commenting in modern day, almost congratulating themselves as if they themselves had created something.

[@davidrowe7967]

A remastered and extended ‘Beatles First U.S. Visit’ would have been fine for the vast majority of fans.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Agree 100%! 🎅🎶🎵🎼👍🎄

[@allanc.records8484]

Thanks Matt for your thoughts on this new documentary on the BEATLES 64'..I wasn't going to subscribe to Disney for this and just waited until the release on dvd! It makes me want to go back and watch the BEATLES first US visit and the Anthology series once again! I haven't watched either in over 20 years! Too many talking heads is not my favorite thing either! I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving buddy! Take care and enjoy the rest of your weekend, Allan

[@vincentm4717]

I agree with you. In fact, I thought this was a re release of the first visit film. That film built up a nice pace. In the hotel The Beatles were tired but clearly enjoyed the sudden attention in the U.S.

[@matthewstreet1961]

I hear you! The pace was much better in the old film. 🎼❤️🍻🎄🎅🎶🎵

[@jamesbyersmusic]

I was torn!! In a lot of ways I loved how they did this. The footage and audio was great and it was really exciting to see the bits that hadn't been seen before. But as a long time fan I had seen most of it. For the most part I enjoyed the recollections of the talking heads and it was wonderful to see new interviews with Paul and Ringo. But for a Beatles documentary, I felt that there simply wasn't enough Beatles! Again, while I enjoyed the talking heads, like you I feel that they got in the way at times. I also agree that the film was too choppy and they could have used much longer sections for each "scene" rather than cutting to something or someone else too quickly. The lack of complete performances was also disappointing. I think if this was done in diary/chronological form then this perhaps could have been a nice 2 hours. Keep the talking heads by all means, but use more footage in a linear way and more complete concert footage. On the one had it was great to see, and I'm happy I've watched it and I will watch it again. But I never felt like I was "there" if that makes sense . Thanks as always Matt!! ✌✌✌

[@melaniesweeten5401]

I agree wholeheartedly with your review. The picture and sound on the old footage was lovely, but why wasn't there more of it? I was expecting to see the Beatles, not what Terence Trent D'arby thought of the Beatles in 1964, when he was just a 2 year old. It was like a half assed Frankenthology.

[@mjemigh3304]

I don't entirely agree, but had to laugh at the D'arby comment! Hence, the "like." Cheers! -MJ😆

[@melaniesweeten5401]

@@mjemigh3304 i love seeing the Beatles footage, so I don't want to be too negative. I just thought it was underwhelming coming after Get Back and Let it Be.

[@matthewstreet1961]

So disappointing! This doc was a bore. (Except for The Beatles!)🎵❤️🍻🎼🎶🎄🎅

[@onlysleeping8934]

Thanks for the heads up Matt. I'm glad I didn't waste my money for a temporary Disney Plus subscription. Like you, I have a copy of the 1st US Visit. I don't need "celebrities" chiming in. (I never understood why Whoopi was in Eight Day's A Week. Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Wishing you a joyful holiday season. Kenny from Jersey ✌️

[@matthewstreet1961]

Thanks Kenny, Happy Holidays! 🍻🎶🎵🎼🎄🎅❤️

[@EricSchultz-zs8hz]

I waited until last night to watch it about 8pm or so. I think your review is fair, but I liked it a little more than you did. I guess I wasn't expecting it to be a full-immersion in February, 1964 like you were hoping it to be. I have the DVD of The 1st US Visit, which I agree is a deep dive into that month. Knowing that there was new footage of Paul and Ringo, I was already expecting it to be more of a regular documentary, where you go back to then, and then come back to now, as they remember '64. It was nice seeing Smoky Robinson, though the editor let that segment go on a little too long. the Jack Douglas stuff was interesting, but didn't have much to do with the subject, unless if it was in '64 (was it in '63 that he and his friend were in Liverpool?). I enjoyed seeing it, but I might not watch it again for a while.

[@davidrowe7967]

Probably if there is a remastered and extended “Beatles Anthology”, Disney+ will be screening the documentary for some time. Us fans might have this on BLU-RAY a year or so later! Why should Disney+ have a monopoly on Beatles product?

[@ChrisTaylor-sr2sf]

Hi Matt, I could tell by your body language straight away that you were underwhelmed. Thanks for the honest review as always. I will still be watching with two other fans later, so it will be good to get our three opinions together. Will get back to you on the outcome.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Thanks Chris 🎼🎄❤️🍻🎅🎵🎶

[@ChrisTaylor-sr2sf]

Mixed bag on the outcome. I wasn't impressed at all, too many jolts, not a free flowing film storewise and disappointing with the performances not being complete. My two friends gave it an overall 6/10 but agreed that we won't watch it again.

[@rayname908]

30 minutes of great footage & A bunch of recent interviews that are like bonus features on a DVD . I liked seeing the cover of Yesterday for the first time but none of the later footage had anything to do with '64

[@johnalello9233]

I loved the documentary of The Beatles '64 on Disney plus it was great really enjoyed it very well made and everything for me was perfect just loved the Washington DC concert footage and the interviews on the streets of New York City just great! So happy to watch it and I'll be watching over and over! The Beatles looked so young and funny guys glad Disney plus put this on hope they put on the Anthologies on Disney because it was on ABC. Back in 1995 and they own each other Maybe A hard days night and Help! YELLOW SUBMARINE Magical mystery tour too all on one streaming channel! Thanks Matthew

[@matthewstreet1961]

Thanks! I’m with you, that DC concert footage was amazing! 🎸🎶🍻❤️

[@TheBeatlesSchool]

I’ve got my own KZbin channel south here in Brazil. Incredibly we look alike in our beardness and baldness 🤣. To top it all our review is practically the same. Great video. Cheers from Brazil 🇧🇷 ❤

[@Fred.pSonic]

Good review, I agree with it all. Aiming for the general market but come on, everybody wants some new stuff. Knowing that the Maysles Brothers shot 11 hours of footage I hoped for a trove of rarities and alternate angles. What we got were talking heads, stock footage of the days events, and precious little new footage. And the padding: The dude who became Lennon's engineer. Fine but did we need the entire back story? And the lady who reminisces about a dream she had of George kissing her on the cheek. WTF?? Give me my footage of The Beatles dammit! Love the cleaned up look (Wash DC especially) but not enough Beatles and not enough music. Grade: B-

[@brendongomez8267]

As a hardcore fan since I was 4 in 1981, I hated this doc for these reasons 1. Elaine Kim - using her version of All My Loving is like using Ace of Base in 1995 to sing In My Life at the beginning of Anthology to appeal to a younger demographic 2. Where is Brian Epistein? He made the mania happen, where’s the respect? Are we so shallow we think The Beatles just came on their own to the US 3. Discussing chord changes. Like the recent Beach Boys doc, no one talks about the chord changes, harmonies, only what it makes one ‘feel’. It’s as if no one wants to know how the melodies are created 4. Identity politics / side stories that have nothing to do w the Beatles - yes it all comes from the Blues, and everyone has a backstory but this is about the Beatles 5. Smokey Robinson Yesterday- I love Motown but why hear a song from 1965 in a doc about 1964? Between this doc and Midas Man, Lennon and Harrison are laughing in disgust

[@sebestienfernewald]

Hi Matt, thanks for reviewing this so soon. For me it was the same experience. I was really excited when it was announced, new Beatles content is basically always to be appreciated. I was quite irritated that the first Song was a Coverversion of all my loving! Why! And then there were the same old stories mostly, wild editing, and truthfully sad to say boring. You get more excitement even from the Ron Howard Film. it's really sad that apple holds so much back, what were they thinking? But then again, I will watch it for a second time a least. I think that Film is not made for advanced fans like us, its made for the new generations and for them it may be a good gateway thing. Cheers from Germany

[@matthewstreet1961]

Yes we agree! Love to Germany 🇩🇪! 🎄🎅🎼🎶🍻❤️🎵

[@teresabenson6087]

I was disappointed there wasn’t more Beatles footage in it 😢

[@uoyevolisp]

Yeah -totally agree Matt. It’s well intentioned but ultimately lacks focus. my favourite bit was the shot from the crowd perspective on Roll Over Beethoven.

[@matthewstreet1961]

I loved that part too! 🎄🎶🎵🎼🍻🎅❤️

[@roygoad2870]

Come on guys, it was great, it captures the time and feel of those days. The live clips were excellent and all the joking and comedy between them was natural and enjoyable 😊

[@matthewstreet1961]

True, but you get MUCH more of what you described in The Beatles: The First US Visit. Check it out. 🎅🎵🎄❤️🍻🎶

[@tommymaguire2839]

It had it’s moments, but what I worry about is having the INSUFFERABLE Murray the K be the main memory that stays with me like chewing gum in your hair. I thought the clips of a clearly annoyed Paul were very real and telling. Thanks for the review.

[@vintagestudiolive]

If it says Disney, you can always expect them to be late for the dance and trying to milk the last nickel out of any franchise. Star Wars, Muppets, Beach Boys and now the Beatles. And screw the talking heads..

[@triplejazzmusicisall1883]

I so strongly agree with you. Disney are the experts at mucking up everything and being a money machine. I could even add more to your list. Disney 2020 onwards is an embarrassment.

[@winstonoreggae6332]

Same sentiment here.

[@samstjohn1994]

I'm okay with not as much music, mostly because we have so much of it already. I enjoyed it, but can see where you are coming from!

[@matthewstreet1961]

The Beatles were great, the documentary was a bore. 🎶🎵🍻🎅🎄🎼❤️

[@UnclePaulsBeatlesPopPlayhouse]

Wow great notes Matthew, nice early review...Sadly I thought that's how it would be ever since I saw the trailer. ABC should've aired it then stream, I think this was tailored for the younger viewer/fan. Cheers from the playhouse!

[@matthewstreet1961]

I agree it’s geared to a younger crowd! 🍻🎼🎵🎶❤️🎄🎅

[@greenovation]

I agree with you 100% on this one. Can’t help but feel a little let down. I’m glad we have it, but I haven’t even considered rewatching it as yet. I will later, right now I’d rather watch Daytime Revolution again, as it’s available on AppleTV. I enjoyed your review, Matthew. Happy Christmas season to you!

[@matthewstreet1961]

Appreciate the feedback, thanks for the watch!🎄🎅❤️🎶🎵🎼🍻

[@thumbsaloft]

It just sounds like the music is missing.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Exactly! 🎵❤️🍻🎄🎅🎼

[@toms4442]

I haven't seen it yet, buy I'm not surprised. This is what I was expecting. I think the big problem is that they are catering to the new generation of fans a little to much, I hop on this crazy Beatles train in '73 and as a 6 year old nothing was geared to me, I accepted everything the way it all ready was , I can definitely do without celebrity Beatles fans! Quite frankly I would rather hear from the people that were there and if we can't have that maybe they shouldn't do things like this at all. The Ron Howard movie has grown on me over the years but I don't consider it "must see" we have the Anthogy, the Beatles First US visit and a Hard Days Night etc.etc... and Maybe that's enough. Maybe the focus should be on making them still available to purchase or making clips available on KZbin to entice new fans.

[@mjemigh3304]

If you're marketing something.....ANYthing!......you can never cater to the new generations too much. Unless you WANT to fail. Obviously, I don't know your age. I'm in my 70s. Of course, I would love to see more of my memories on screen. The fact is, we're dying off. You gotta go where the money is. As I said in my own comment here, I think this is an excellent film for today's audience. It simply wasn't made for me, nor should it have been. -MJ

[@micolsen9824]

12:06 did you notice if they raised Lennon's voice from the first Sullivan show? Or did they raise the quieter microphone level at the Washington coliseum show. I'd be surprised if they achieved success there.

[@matthewstreet1961]

It sounded like they fixed George’s vocal, doing rollover Beethoven at Washington. Not sure about the other one.🎼🎵❤️🎄🎅🍻

[@kjellwre2240]

The music is out on Tidal,Spotify and Apple. Its just the Red Album all over again. Why did they not put the Ed Sullivan show,and maybe the live conserts,on a CD,LP,and Streaming.

[@matthewstreet1961]

That streaming album is a joke. 🎄🍻🎶🎼🎵🎅❤️

[@bearmanz]

Hi Matthew. Is the music mixed into stereo?

[@chrisclarkvideos1969]

The Beatles are now a Disney property. What that means is that we should enjoy our well worn collection and leave all of the fake money grabs on the shelf.

[@triplejazzmusicisall1883]

Same with Doctor Who if your British and know of it.

[@MrWinstonOBoogie]

Beatles were their own extras in this flick.

[@mjemigh3304]

😆

[@matthewstreet1961]

😁

[@vinylmartini3377]

Thanks for the review Matt. Obviously more satisfying for the casual Beatle fan. Those talking heads seem to use these opportunities to help expose there own brands. Hey, it’s on the Disney channel, so it has to be nice and safe. Cheers buddy.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Thanks Jack! Great points! 🎶🎄❤️🍻🎅🎼🎵

[@marktimeny1488]

The Beatles where always so much more than just a band or just their music as great as it was , their interviews where usually funny and entertaining, maybe they would have been better off using more interview footage of the Beatles from 64 to capture something of the time , and more of the music ,

[@adrianmist6681]

Thanks for the honest review Matt, although I do think you have been a bit polite about your opinion. For me, I'm not glad to have it and I won't be watching it again. This film was made by cutting up several documentaries, chucking them in the air and put the bits back together as they fell, a complete waste of time!

[@davecostello560]

Having read so many negative reviews by fans, I've just watched it and was surprised how enjoyable I found it. Not of the order of Get Back, obviously, but charming and nostalgic. The Smokey version of Yesterday was beautiful.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@johnurban7333]

I think you miss the historical aspect of this film and how it captures the impact they had on everyone in those 14 days. They put a lot of thought into making this film and I found it very deep and moving. I get that Beatle people want to see nothing but Beatle footage but they are doing something different and I feel they succeeded. I was there when the Beatles came on the scene so I understand both sides

[@lonmaness6222]

Thanks Matt, I was planning to order a 1 month subscription for Disney + just for Beatles 64. Thanks to your review, I believe I'll hold off on the subscription. I do have all the DVDs that you have shown. I'm very satisfied with them. Again, much appreciated for your review👍

[@matthewstreet1961]

Smart move, this doc is not worth a full subscription! 🎼❤️🍻🎄🎅

[@rachelsghost]

Great job, Matthew! I don’t have Disney + so your insights here are a great help. I’ll buy it when and if it gets a physical media release. In the meantime your review helps abate any sense of FOMO I might have experienced by not getting in on the ground floor with this. 👍🏻

[@matthewstreet1961]

Thanks for the kind words! ❤️🎼🎶🎵🎅🍻🎄

[@rachelsghost]

@@matthewstreet1961 ❤❤🥰🥰❤❤

[@matthewstreet1961]

@@rachelsghost I realize I’m just one “opinion” on this, but I was definitely disappointed. Love to you and Sue! 🎼🎵🎶❤️🎄🎅🍻

[@rachelsghost]

@@matthewstreet1961 Yes, Matthew... but you have an "informed" opinion. 🙏😎

[@matthewstreet1961]

@@rachelsghost thanks my friends! ❤️🔥🎵🎼🎶🍻

[@bilguana11]

Billie Eyelash - WTF?

[@mjemigh3304]

I guess that's my one complaint. I think someone more recognizable from the time would have been a better choice. Maybe Maryanne Faithful? I get not wanting to use a Beatles recording in that spot as a filmmaking artistic choice.

[@triplejazzmusicisall1883]

I agree that was a pointless inclusion but to be fickle it was not Billie E. (much of the British media got that wrong). It was a relatively unknown singer named Elaine Kim.

[@matthewstreet1961]

I almost 🤮 when her voice came on! 🎼❤️🎵🎶🎄🎅🍻

[@davidtellett179]

I kept drifting off during the doc. I admire you for watching it a second time!

[@shakcmusic]

Not a Second Time! 😁

[@davidtellett179]

​@@shakcmusic😂

[@BackWordsJane]

I'm disappointed that they chose celebrity fans to talk about the Beatles and not the fans who were caught up in Beatlemania at the time.Their stories would've been more interesting

[@christopherhahn6728]

Love your honest takes, Matt. Glad to hear I'm not missing anything.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Glad to be of service! 🍻🎶🎵🎼🍻🎅🎄

[@Greg_vmp]

Hey Matt, I watched your review before I saw movie and was a bit discouraged. I just finished watching it and I can honestly say I really enjoyed it. I think it is a great documentary which captures this incredible cultural moment. I didn’t mind talking heads. Most of them had interesting stories to tell. I didn’t mind Beatles songs not being played in its entirety. This was completely different format than Get Back documentary. I am speaking from a perspective of a person who didn’t see majority of this footage before.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Glad you enjoyed it! Not my cup of tea.🎄🎅🍻🎼🎵🎶

[@stephenrostkoski837]

Thanks for an honest assessment, Matt. It's OK to be disappointed, so no need to apoIogize. I had a feeling the doc was going to be like this. Same stories, lots of talking heads, not much music, etc. I think I'll survive without seeing it. I don't understand why we still don't have an official Washington, DC concert release, which would be exciting.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Yeah it’s a tough one! I would love to see that DC show! 🎤🎵🎼🎄❤️🎅🍻

[@joshua2814]

Yeah, I liked this, but didn't love it. It's far from my new favorite Beatles doc. The talking heads bits were too much. I watched it with my fam at dinner and remember when the one lady was saying how the Beatles were masculine and feminine my mother was like "what?!" The stuff from Ronnie and Smokey were relevant but too much of it felt like Sociology 101.

[@jorgeb555]

11:54 into it and I must say I LOVE IT SO FAR! Just watching the part where the girl is saying what they bought for each Beatle. I can relate: In 1999 I bought a $200 pocket watch with the Kennedy half dollar on the face for Sir George Martin. As a result of my gift, I got to meet him one on one for one of the most exciting experiences of my life. 🤓

[@jorgeb555]

Now 20:25 into it and I STILL LOVE IT!!! It seems to be about capturing a moment more than documenting every movement. Ronnie Spector is super!

[@jorgeb555]

Now at 1:09:59. Harry Benson is still alive?!?! I interviewed him at the Newseum in 1999. Half hour interview I did as my first cable access program. So cool!

[@jorgeb555]

“We didn’t give a flying f*ck!” Best moment of the film!

[@jorgeb555]

John and George switching switching jackets at 1:19:37 now my favorite moment.

[@jorgeb555]

1:22:12. Sid Bernstein. I took him to get dinner at several fast food places in Virginia Beach in 1999. #truestory

[@jordn1]

It was basically a rehash. While watching it I thought the better and more riginal documentary would have been a one that JUST featured the adult kids that were hanging around the Plaza. I was truly captivated by their recollections and analysis in perspective from then to now (or "Now and Then"). In fact "Now And Then" woud have been a great name for such a doc. 😉

[@matthewstreet1961]

Agreed!👍 🍻❤️🎄🎅🎶🎵

[@josephmantineo1376]

Hey Matthew, Great review!! I watched it and it was good NOT GREAT…but not horrible!! I enjoyed the footage of the fans and Beatles from 64. I liked seeing Ringo and Paul interviewed 2023/24. I didn’t like all the talking head spots and I didn’t enjoy the concert footage or the Ed Sullivan footage now that I’m thinking of it most likely because it was just segments and not the complete songs or segments ( I remember a lot of us fans were asking and curious to know if the complete shows/segments were going to be shown). I wonder if Lenard Bernsteins daughter feels weird about her bra dream now I sure didn’t need that info!!! I wish the clips were more complete so We the viewers could be more focused then not. I blame Martin Scorsese for not making it better But then again I realized I didn’t Love his George Harrison Doc either. Take care Matt I will watch again to see if my view changes but I’m not sure it will

[@matthewstreet1961]

I hear ya! I wish they had used more complete clips too! I think you’re right about the talking heads! 🤣 🦃🍻🎶🎵🎼❤️🍻🎅🎄

[@MichaelNoland-TheBottomLine]

Good call on this Mathew! I was frankly bored the whole time. Maybe if it had come out 60 years after instead of nearly 61 years, I might have been able garner a bit of excitement within myself. I blame Disney having anything to do with The Beatles, Star Wars, or Marvel! You name it, they screw it up! But get ready for everybody singing this unnecessary Doc’s praises! I won’t buy this when it comes out on physical media, nor will I watch it again! Now where did I put my copy of Anthology? 😂❤

[@triplejazzmusicisall1883]

Michael you and Matt are living legends. Yeah the sycophants will rave about it. I wonder what John would have thought. It's times like these I so much wish he was here to give his view and squash any faux enthusiasm from the sycophants. It seems though that adults (with a mature mind) have overwhelmingly been underwhelmed by this release.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Nice to know you and I are pretty much on the same page Michael!🎼❤️🎶🎅🎄🎵🍻

[@matthewstreet1961]

Aww Jeremy! You’re too kind! Love ya man! 🎶🍻🎵🎅🎄❤️

[@andrewfyfe8986]

I agree

[@freddiebarry93]

As a 31 year old fan, I was also disappointed and underwhelmed. The talking heads were the worst part. Especially when it's someone talking about who their favorite Beatle was..... God, I can't stand that. It makes female fans look bad too. Because alot of them only liked the Beatles for their looks and personality, not their musical talent.

[@matthewstreet1961]

@@freddiebarry93 great thoughts and insights! Thank you! 🙏 🎵🎼🎶🎄🎅

[@lylahale5284]

you know what i love about your channel, you dont "sugar coat" anything...if if its something you love, but it is crap, you say so !...i think anyone in their 50,s or just on the borderline 40 years of age are the last of being "passionate" about the Beatles, i work with people in the early 20,s and they have no interest, (some have no knowledge) of The Beatles...

[@alastairbaker8393]

Sounds like I chose wisely to ignore this. I wasn't that interested to begin with. The First Visit and the complete Sullivan DVDs sound like they are still superior to this documentary and all you really need. What I'd like to see is a decent doc on the Beatles '63, how they went from a provincial band to dominating Britain, and it could even include Feb. 64 when our Saturday sports show 'Grandstand' actually interrupted their programming to join the screaming hordes at London Airport to welcome the boys home after conquering the States. It was like they were everyone's brother or son. The teen and parental affection oozes from the footage of that year and creates a genuine sense of foreboding, loss by the British fans when America discovers the Beatles. The jealousy guarded secret was out and the boys were no longer ours but now the worlds. Fascinating to watch.

[@matthewstreet1961]

You are absolutely right! 👍 🎼❤️🍻🎄🎅

[@0010Kev]

I agree 100% Matt. J was bored and disappointed as well. Not nearly as much concert and Ed Sullivan. It's all just a Mish mosh of stuff. What the hell is 'In My Life' doing there? I love that song but it was not done be the Beatles of 1964. It sounded completely out of place. It seems to me the people who made this didn't "get" the Beatles.

[@jamesy4003]

Matt - I thought this thing was the biggest dud, why am I watching Smokey Robinson sing Yesterday , and hearing about a George “ bra” dream , uggh ! First US Visit DVD is much better , the talking heads were cringe to me , I was asking what the heck am I watching , almost like listening to Whoopi Goldberg in the Eight Days A Week movie , no thanks, will never watch again . Great review Matt, great minds think alike

[@matthewstreet1961]

Seeing and hearing the Beatles was absolutely fabulous! But the more I think about this documentary, the more and more I’m believing it sucks!🎄🎅❤️🍻🎼🎶🎵

[@ebudae26]

I was disappointed also.Beatles songs are short so they could have had complete songs and it would still only be two hours long.This seems to be geared to new fans, not hardcore fans like us. I won't be buying this if it comes out on dvd unless it has some great extras.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Agree with you all the way! 🎵❤️🍻🎄🎅🎶🎼

[@johngalt5411]

IMHO, would have been better if it was just unseen footage of the boys & focused on their performances, that part was great!

[@matthewstreet1961]

Agree with you all the way! 🍻🎶🎼🎄🎅❤️🎵

[@anthonyvigliotti6560]

Nailed Matt. I feel the same way. Newer/younger fans that have not seen videos like The Beatles First US Visit, Anthology, etc, will enjoy this new film. Why Billie Relish is in this (and taking out all of the joy of a great song), I don't get it. The JFK connection is so overblown its ridiculous. Take care and don't forget to wash your Beatles wig. 😂

[@matthewstreet1961]

Yes wig to be washed soon! Ha! Hearing Billie Eyesuck was disturbing. 🎶❤️🎅🎵🍻🎄🎼

[@mikeyarugula]

Matt - I want to thank you for your honesty- I 1000% agree with you but would go a step further - this was a mediocre money grab production - a big let down for old fans like you and me - and they lost a big opportunity to generate a buzz with a new generation of fans - the Beatles First US Visit updated and redone from the 1991 release from Apple would have been great - they blew it and adding Scorsese ‘s name to this meant nothing

[@tijnonline6807]

What a disappointment that Beatles '64 documentary ! It goes all over the place, and very little music and performances. The dvd The Beatles First US Visit is much better!

[@will9605]

As a Canadian who has an immense respect for Marshall Mcluhan, a fellow Canadian I have to wonder why the film spent so much time with him. Yes he interviewed John and Yoko in 1969 but I felt this was another distraction. Perhaps this was Scorsese trying to explain to a younger audience why The Beatles were so important but I feel this really missed the mark. Matt's right, this film should've been more chronological with more footage of their arrival at JFK and the first two minutes of Ed Sullivan. "Now newspapermen and photographers from all over the country agree with that city has never seen something like The Beatles. So tonight you're going to twice be entertained by them, right now and in the second half of the show. Ladies and gentlemen THE BEATLES!" Cut to Paul with the count in "1 2 3 4 5"

[@matthewstreet1961]

Great insights! 🎼❤️🎶🎵🍻🎄

[@BeatlemaccaAR]

Exactly. This new thing is non linear, narrative is all over the place, "unseen" footage is scarce, quality is... just ok... I think they're aiming to appeal to casual /new/younger fans. Also how hard is it to top Get Back, even with the curious editorial choices of Jackson &Co?? Thing is, I'm afraid the really unseen/inedit original matetial is running lower and lower so they need to put out this type of hybrid thing that's underwhelming for seasoned fans.

[@BeatlemaccaAR]

"That thing you do" excited me far more than Beatles 64 🤷‍♀️😂

[@matthewstreet1961]

Excellent points! 🎼🎄🎶🎵🍻❤️🎅

[@gringo557]

The footage all looked great, especially the Washington DC concert footage. Sure would be nice to have the complete concert!!!!! Scorsese and team, well, I dunno. I didn't think the editing was that well done. And they really butchered Harrison's Living In The Material World documentary a few years back. Embarrassing choppy editing in that case. Beatles = A+, Scorsese & team = C+

[@TerryTutor-cv3hh]

By my previous comments, I know that you know we would agree with you. Scorsese's rationalization, I'm certain, is that this is for new fans who don't have "First Visit" and don't really know anything about The Beatles and the year 1964. My counter-argument is: Too often, in the entertainment industry, they cater to people who are not really interested as their core demographic. These people didn't care enough to see and know this before. And 5 minutes after the offering is over, they won't care again. Anyway, thanks for watching this so we don't have to. Peace and Love, Terry and Julia Tutor

[@matthewstreet1961]

🎼🎄❤️🍻🎅🎶🎵

[@FranMcGowan]

Sadly I was expecting more from this documentary. I don't mind talking heads but if I have to listen or watch talking heads I would hope it would be people that I know. Leonard Bernstein's daughter???? I was expecting much more PRESENT memories from Paul & Ringo. I mean they are the only two left who can really tell you what it was like in 64. It was pretty much the same archival footage that has been around forever. Perhaps there isn't that much more than that around? A golden opportunity that was missed. But hey...I spent over an hour watching and listening to the Beatles.

[@matthewstreet1961]

You’re talking my language here! Beatles equal great, the documentary? Boring!! 🥱 🎼❤️🎵🎄🎅🎶🍻

[@BruceColon-BSides]

I had a feeling it would be pretty lame and it was. For first-gen fans, it might have some nostalgic value, but overall it told us nothing new. The talking heads added nothing and Paul threw out the same tiresome anecdotes. This era was already captured so much better in The First U.S. Visit and Ed Sullivan dvds.

[@gabyactualities]

Matt, let’s face it, this film is trash. Your review is spot on, especially when you compare it to The previous films, but you’re being too nice. I’m afraid that if they keep putting out inferior films and product it’s gonna diminish the legacy of the best band in history and the best story of 4 friends conquering the world when singing about love.

[@Russell.S]

I haven’t seen Beatles ‘64, but get what you’re saying. It would be hard to beat the immersive experience of the Maysles brothers First U.S. Visit film. They should just give that the “Let It Be” treatment and release it.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Exactly! 🎵🎶🎄🍻🎅❤️🎼

[@buttercup1765]

Same

[@ngpappas]

My view completely. A study of Beatlemania, not The Beatles in ‘64. A missed opportunity.

[@richbailey8174]

My wife and I watched it the other night....we thought it was a big nothing. They just mixed up the expanded version of the Beatles First Visit to the US with the Washington DC show film which was already available. Mixed in were old clips from the Anthology film and the now obligatory "Head shot" interviews. Some of those were interesting. Each segment used from the "First Visit" was too long and many of them weren't any good. They show at least 2-3 scenes of girls trying to get into the hotel where they were staying. There were many odd and out of place clips, like the one with Leonard Bernstein "conducting" a tape of "She Said She Said". There didn't seem to be a guiding "theme". It was more like they took a bunch of random stuff from KZbin and mashed them together at random by a high school AV class!

[@matthewstreet1961]

@@richbailey8174 good analysis. No effort was put into this documentary. 🎶🍻🎄🎅❤️🎵🎼

[@DoohickeyDinkle]

gosh, it sounds awful! I believe you, too. Oh well.

[@jltbass56]

Thanks for the review, Matt! For me, it's another big trip, stumble and fall by Apple.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Yup! 👍 🎼❤️🍻🎄🎅

[@MarkBarna1]

Let's hope the Harrison Estate gives us performances and behind-the-scenes footage and no talking heads, especially Ringo's, when "The Concert for Bangladesh" movie comes out. That was George's greatest moment. Do not want to see a contemporary Jim Keltner, or Ringo or even Eric Clapton chatting away. Give us footage of performances. Clean up the visuals, the audio, yes, talking heads on this was the first, yada, yada, Clapton on heroin, yada, yada ... no, no, no.

[@Neil-Aspinall]

Really, this doco already existed with, The Beatles First Visit To the US made in 1964. What's the point of the repackaging?

[@matthewstreet1961]

Agreed! 🎅🎵🎼🎶🍻🎄❤️

[@ricknorris1466]

A modern Magical Mystery Tour failure?

[@lengomcharrison8323]

It was just ok. I watched it all. I found the fan footage more interesting. The screaming girls were just so crazy back then. Maybe we all have a little Beatles overkill sypmton. But Ill give it a 2 out of 4. Good review.

[@matthewstreet1961]

@@lengomcharrison8323 sounds reasonable to me Lengo! 🎼🍻❤️🎄🎅🎶🎵

[@yemred5854]

It seems just recycled footage of the brilliant footage from the Maysels brothers. Is it worth watching? Just buy the DVD from the Beatles visit to US by the Maysels released in 2004. It is fantastic.

[@kincaide67]

After your review I can see that more or less this is a documentary for a lot of new fans....A Beatles 101 perhaps. As long time fans, like you said, we've seen most of this before. If they'd take the new technology and release a film of cleaned up "Washington Colliseum" or "The Sullivan Shows" or perhaps the entire "1st US visit" and Shea Stadium, etc etc etc. The Japanese shows....whatever. They've shown that they can clean up the visuals and the audio, so just do that and release some complete performances. The Rooftop complete without the folks in the street or the cops in the lobby. Documentaries are fine, but let us see a complete Beatles performance from start to finish. Sometimes these documentaries act as though they're the first ones ever on the Beatles. The "Anthology" series got 3 nights - and the dvd is so much better. How about cleaning that one up. Anyway - I get ya. I guess whoever's in charge doesn't think (for whatever idiot reason) that long-lived die hard fans would like a complete live series like that. IDK. It's a shame that these historic performances are left unseen in their entirety. Thanx Matt for the review. I kinda figured this one would be another cookie-cutter doc aimed at first time fans. Take care, my friend.

[@matthewstreet1961]

Yeah, I think you nailed it! It’s aimed at newer fans, for sure! 🎼🎶🎵🎅🎄🍻❤️

[@CouldbeNE1]

Since it contained little or no new stuff most Beatles fans haven't already seen, this felt more like a promo for the overpriced Capitol albums just released.

[@Venusandjupiteinunion6434]

Matthew I absolutely agree with you okay, and I was afraid it was only me and I was having an off day. And I just literally watched it like an hour ago, and it was just all over the place. There are documentaries that I've seen about the Beatles that were a lot better than this and I'm a Beatle fan all the way back to 64, I was 7 years old as you may or may not know. There was very little if any consistency, if you didn't know what was going on. Oh you'd go oh did they do that first or were they over there and now they're at the Peppermint Lounge. Then they're at the Washington Coliseum. And, you don't even get to see them getting ready for the Ed Sullivan Show or maybe I missed it. And God I hate to admit it but I was disappointed too. I really thought this was going to be something great. I just hope it doesn't put people off not wanting to watch stuff about the Beatles, but in a strange way it really captured the chaos that was going on. One thing I did notice was with the slightly longer clips of The Beatles themselves you know in the train, and the hotel room stuff like that, that it really showed off their personalities. I did get that from it. Paul was very business like it was almost like he was the spokesman, it's like okay I will tell you what you need to know well I'm not really in a happy mood right now, well we're just you know what did he say this is just a bit of fun not culture it's just a bit of fun or something like that. Very businesslike. George was quiet, and his interview you know more current newer footage is really good, but George as a Beatle, just seemed very introspective about the whole thing. Ringo was having a blast, I can honestly say Ringo just cut loose and had fun. I don't want to spoil it for anybody but let's just say The Peppermint Lounge scene is really great. And John my God he came across to me as oh my God I'm overwhelmed, where am I, what's happening to me, okay now what. And not to mention shy? The only time you really see the camera on a him it's kind of I'm off the picture, I'm out of the shot or I turn my back, and when he did have the camera right on him it's kind of like he's looking up and going, OMG, and then he'll mug for the camera. He was really seemed really overwhelmed, and shy as well. This is just my opinion. No there was not enough footage of the Beatles, there was too much going on. Martin Scorsese just tried to jam everything he possibly could into an hour and 46 minutes, and quite frankly the Talking Heads ruined it almost. Not to mention the weird little Clips I don't want to spoil it, but the psychoanalysis of the fans thing. Did we really need to go there? Did we really need the analysis of you know like Leonard Bernstein and all that kind of stuff did we really need that? So I would give it a 6 or 7 out of 10. In that there is no chronological order, you don't know where you are going next. And like you said, every time they start talking about something or showing clips of the Beatles, it's back to the Talking Heads it gives you whiplash. But I don't have a copy of that the Beatles what is it in America, I want to get a copy of that but it's probably not available anymore. But no I'm sorry it didn't Jazz me to the Bone either, and I was looking forward to it and I was rather disappointed. But I really enjoyed all the little clips of John, Paul, George and Ringo giving their little blurbs about how they felt about it. And no I won't give it away either, but John Lennon's final little comments really kind of do some up the whole thing. And in a way that thing that he talks about is exactly what this documentary is it's like it's chaotic at best. Perhaps I'll watch it again and I'll feel differently, but I kept thinking can we get off of the celebrities and the talking heads and back to the Beatles?

[@matthewstreet1961]

Excellent comments and I really appreciated hearing your insights on this! You really went into a lot of good detail and I loved it. Thank you! 🎵🎶🎄🎅🍻❤️🎼

[@triplejazzmusicisall1883]

I am wondering these days have we been given too much Beatles product that the quality of new releases somehow dimishes the stature and magnificence of the actual group and their impact. It feels like they are always trying to find new ways to put out Betales and related material. Michael Noland's reaction seems similat to Matts. My thoughts... However, I tended to agree with Michael regarding the over-reaching that happens with revisionism of everything these days especially regarding The Beatles. Fans who are not sycophants can have a hard time as those who are will be ready to rip into anyone who dares make a claim that is not positive. I think these exaggerations usually little if any merit, after all John made some of the humblest reviews of his ex-band than anyone (some very harsh). Wild statements like The Beatles broke down communist Russia are nonsense views put forward by many are ridiculous. The Beatles remain the ultimate band in our history of popular culture. They were a phenomenon whose musical genesis, formation and development into the remarkable have no equal. They turned pop/rock music into an artform like no other had done so before and yes it had a huge impact, and this still continues today. But so many claims are just childish including the JFK statements and inferences. Looking at the audiences during that period how many people over 40 were in the crowds screaming away. These embellishments annoy me because they are not warranted nor are they needed. Michael's words on this are articulate, well-argued and break it down into common sense. The Beatles the best popular band in history - absolutely. So why do we need to make up stories and theme lines that are not accurate. Just tell the truth. Oh, and they were not the first to step on the moon but they were stellar and their stars shined. One also has to ask what is Disney really trying to do these days with every film they release? Is there anything left to say and produce. I obviously am not a fan of excess as I think it leads to poorer quality. It can even distract from what should be the main focus which of course should be the music. Too much. I'll take less thanks and have it very well done and focused on the music not bogus claims of how it helped heal a nation over the death of JFK etc... Just overreaching that is not required. I think John would agree if he were here today. Good honest review Matt; straight on target with the good and not so great.

[@thomastimlin1724]

Yes if you have seen, over and over, the three videos you mentioned, too many talking heads and fast clips becomes laborious to watch unless you have ADHD. New technology can't save a choppy presentation. 1 hour 43 minutes dominated by commentors and not the subjects at hand, yyyaaawwwnnnn...

[@paulrodriguez8852]

Okay I did watch it. I agree with you? They should have put in a little bit more about the year. Like more 😊 about a Hard da

[@matthewstreet1961]

@@paulrodriguez8852 we think alike! ❤️🍻🎄🎼🎅🎵🎶

[@paulrodriguez8852]

Sorry about a hard day's night and more about the year. So overall? It's okay? Could have been better.😮

[@gcrichman53]

This documentary like Ron Howard's Eight Days A Week it focuses too much on stupid Beatlemania and it's really wrong and ridiculous to say and portray the early Beatles as being so much more than they appeared in February of 1964, they were a great hard working self made inventive prolific very good musicians,singers and song writers even then!

[@matthewstreet1961]

Good insights! 🎄🎅🍻🎼🎶❤️🎵

[@charlesduncan3194]

Thanks matt for the review I already have those 3 dvds so I take that I'm not missing much, i,ll wait till it comes cheep to dvd when the hype dies down

[@matthewstreet1961]

Me too, wait and hope for “extras”. 🎅🍻🎄❤️🎼🎵🎶