Regular readers of Radio Exile may know that I’m quite the crazed Beatlemaniac. Thus, it’s only natural that I jumped at the possibility of reviewing Composing the Beatles Songbook: Lennon and McCartney, 1966 – 1970 [link]. With a little help from a panel of friends, academics, and musicologists (sorry, couldn’t resist!), this independent documentary film explores the most successful songwriting team in history. And despite beginning in the middle of the story, the narrative carefully reveals the complex nature of the McCartney-Lennon machine.
The creative brilliance sustained during their dozen-year relationship was attributed to a unified polarity. Each composer vied for control of the band’s artistic direction, with success ultimately hanging in the balance. It was this highly competitive push-pull dynamic that would so often lead to hit songs. The film focuses on portions of the catalog from the fruitful period between Rubber Soul and Let It Be, when it seemed the Beatles could do no wrong. For instance, tracks like “For No One,” “Tomorrow Never Knows,” “A Day in the Life,” “I Want You (She’s So Heavy),” and “Hey Jude” are all analyzed musically and placed within historical context.
Yet, due to the “unauthorized” nature of this DVD release, most Fab Four footage and material is off-limits. As a result, there are no exciting special features of note. Unless of course you have a strong desire to hear a musicologist blather on about the music theory behind why “A Day in the Life” was so successful; or to read bios on each of the contributors. Boring with a capital B.
In the end, this documentary is a broad survey intended for casual fans seeking a greater understanding behind the music. So take it for what it’s worth. Beatles aficionados need not waste their time. Indeed, for my money, I’d rather just watch the Anthology collection.
Composing the Beatles Songbook: Lennon and McCartney, 1966 – 1970 will be released stateside on November 25th via Pride Production.
Score: 3/5
["Revolution"]
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When Paul McCartney once asked if his and Lennon’s songs were “anti-materialistic” he responded with
“Thats a huge myth. John and I literally used to sit down and say, “Now, let’s write a swimming pool”
Some people may see this as tragic because it could make you feel that your favorite songs mean nothing to their authors. I look at it in much sweeter way. Just picturing Paul driving over to John’s house and sitting in the backyard or in some English garden with their guitars creating magic.
Agreed. At this point, so much of their music is myth that it’s hard to obtain the truth.
They definitely played tricks on their audience with some of the lyrics, though. And who wouldn’t?