Yesterday

There were three main reasons really in seeing 'Yesterday'. The alternative world scenario sounded truly fascinating, one of the most fascinating concepts in recent years to me and a refreshing change from the remakes and sequels constantly made today. Like to love a lot of Danny Boyle's previous films and find him a talented director. The Beatles are not all time favourites but do appreciate him highly, understand their influence in music and like a lot of their songs a lot.

While it could have done more with its concept, 'Yesterday' turned out to still be entertaining and charming that put me and my sister in an uplifting mood leaving the cinema. Had not had an easy day, or week even, up to seeing the film, so 'Yesterday' was a much needed and appreciated antidote. As far as films released in 2019 go, it is neither one of the best or worst in a hit and miss year and somewhere around solid middle if having to rank.

'Yesterday' is a slick looking film, not exemplary but never cheap. Lily James looks great and the camera clearly loves her. The music of course is fantastic, it is The Beatles after all, with some of their greatest hits exuberantly performed, making one want to sing along regardless of whether they know all the words or not. "Hey Jude" is one of the most memorable examples. The script balances amusing comedy and never over-sentimental drama without making it too cartoonish or mawkish (well mostly).

Story-wise, 'Yesterday' captures the feel-good spirit affectionately and the portrayal of the music industry was fun and didn't get over the top. The John Lennon bit is a highlight. Boyle has done better and more inspired direction, but still directs at a crisp pace and balances things quite well. The performances are good, a truly charming James coming off best. Himesh Patel has come on a long way since 'EastEnders' while Kate McKinnon is riotous in the manager role.

On the other viewpoint, the concept was so fascinating and while it is always engaging the story is predictable and a bit too ordinary. Especially the final third, which is pretty much exactly as one would expect.

Ed Sheeran's "extended cameo" for my tastes was rather puzzling and didn't seem to gel with everything else.

All that aside, it was an enjoyable film on the whole and worth seeing. 7/10

Beatles fans will enjoy this more than those who are not familiar with the music and history of The Beatles. Including a love story to add extra 'feel-good' moments in between bouts of great singing from both real world artists and actors alike.

There are a few standout characters that bring alot of flair to the dry English humour and a great Beatles song during the credits that make me want a theatre just to listen to music in!

I'm 26 years old and I've never really been a Beatles fan before. I knew who they were and how they are the greatest band of all time, but I never actually sat down and listened to their songs. Recently, while going through some personal hardships, I started listening to some of their songs and holy s***, I was blown away. So then I started going down the Beatles rabbit hole, watching interviews with them, reading news and of course listening to more of their music. I lost my younger cousin last year, he was only 20 years old, may he rest in peace. We grew up together and we were essentially brothers. And so reading about John Lennon made me feel the same way I did after losing my cousin. And then I heard about this movie. Having no real expectations, I watched it. This movie is a nice feel good movie. No crazy plot, no crazy action, just a simple premise with decent execution that gets the job done. That's all it really is. But to me, it felt almost like therapy. I felt some part of myself healing after watching this movie, so to me it feels special. I would recommend.

Movies like Yesterday aren't meant to challenge our intellect or keep us on the edge of our seats. They're mean to entertain without strain, and tap into our sense of feelgood and nostalgia.

That's exactly what Yesterday does, and it does it very well. The acting is spot on, the characters relatable, and the humorous moments well placed and paced.

The fabulous songs of the Beatles don't hurt either. Watch through the credits for the full version of "Hey Jude"

Don't judge Yesterday by the same yardstick as Endgame or Get Out and you might thoroughly enjoy it as I did

I went into this wondering if they were going to explain the whole premise with it being a dream or such? Was he going to get caught and crucified for it? Was he going to get the girl, lose the girl? So many movies are fixated on realism and difficulties and negativity. Yes, he faces several difficulties. But, the movie is light and beautiful with fantastic music. If I want realism, I watch a documentary. This is what I go to the movies for. Really well done!