A Hard Day's Night

About A Hard Day's Night

'A Hard Day's Night' is a black-and-white comedy musical film featuring the British band, The Beatles. The film was directed by Richard Lester and released in 1964. It showcases a couple of days in the lives of the group members consisting of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. The film dodges between their attempts to get away from their fans and Paul's trouble-causing grandfather.

Making / Production

The movie was made in a documentary-style, capturing the 'Beatlemania' that was raging on during that period. The director, Richard Lester, used a variety of innovative techniques to depict this wild enthusiasm. It was filmed during the height of The Beatles' popularity.

Actors

• John Lennon as himself - Lennon played the role convincingly, bringing his own charisma and personality to the character.
• Paul McCartney as himself - Paul is portrayed as carefree and a lover of fun in the film. This portrayal was widely appreciated.
• George Harrison as himself - George played the role of the quiet Beatle to perfection.
• Ringo Starr as himself - Ringo became a highlight, delivering a surprisingly effective performance filled with his trademark wit and charm.
• Wilfrid Brambell as John McCartney - Paul’s mischievous on-screen grandfather, who humorously creates trouble within the group.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The title of the film came from Ringo Starr's off-hand, catchy malapropism "A Hard Day's Night" which was also used as the title for one of the film's songs.
• The film was shot in a 'quickie' two-month period during a break between The Beatles' concert performances.
• The soundtrack contains some of the most popular Beatles songs ever, including "Can't Buy Me Love" and "She Loves You".
• This was The Beatles' first feature film.

Awards

The film won two Grammy Awards in 1965, one for Best New Artist and another for Best Performance by a Vocal Group. In addition, it was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Screenplay and Best Score (Adaptation).

Quotes

• "I now declare this bridge open!" - Ringo Starr
• "He's very clean." - John McCartney (about Ringo)
• "A Hard Day's Night? I should be so lucky." - George Harrison

Music, Soundtrack

• "A Hard Day's Night" - This title track provides an energetic start to the film and the album.
• "I Should Have Known Better" - A beautiful harmonica-led song from John Lennon.
• "Can't Buy Me Love" - One of The Beatles' classic hit, featured in a memorable sequence in the film.
• "And I Love Her" - A softer, romantic song from Paul McCartney, showcased in the film.