Farhan Akhtar, in a major international outing, is set to feature in one of the four films based on the lives of the members of The Beatles. The films on the legendary rock icons are being directed by Hollywood veteran Sam Mendes, whose most recent directorial venture was the Olivia Colman starrer Empire of Light (2022).
In conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, while speaking about the project, Akhtar referred to it as “a life-long manifestation" that is "coming true”. He will essay the role of sitar virtuoso and composer Pandit Ravi Shankar — one of the greatest exponents of Indian classical music of the 20th century, who has effectively influenced the music industry throughout the world.
Akhtar said that he has already begun preparing for the role by practising the sitar. “I am doing the best that I can, I already have calluses on my fingers from practising the sitar.” He added, “I am going to be heavily reliant on his incredible expertise as a director,” emphasising on the immense trust he has on the filmmaker.
Akhtar further mentioned how Mendes’ talent as a director doesn’t limit itself to films but also extends to the realm of theatre. He recalled his experience watching one of the Broadway productions directed by Mendes, Motive and the Cue, which was based on the dynamics of Richard Burton and John Gielgud while working on the production of the Broadway play, Hamlet.
“I want to go and learn, so that I can use it (the experience) when I am directing next," Akhtar remarked, expressing his excitement to work on the project.
The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event has been written by Jez Butterworth, Peter Straughan and Jack Thorne. Each film is set around the lives of a band member, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, who will be played by Harris Dickinson, Paul Mescal, Joseph Quinn, and Barry Keoghan, respectively. The four films will be released in April, 2028.
Watch the full conversation with Farhan Akhtar on The Hollywood Reporter India's YouTube channel.
