British actor Jacob Fortune-Lloyd takes on the role of Brian Epstein, the enigmatic manager who played a pivotal part in the meteoric rise of the Beatles. This biopic, though uneven at times, offers a well-meaning exploration of the man behind the music, delving into the complexities of his personal life and his instrumental role in the band's global success.

A Captivating Glimpse into the Life of a Music Visionary

The Architect of the Beatles' Success

The screenplay, penned by Brigit Grant and Jonathan Wakeham, weaves a narrative that highlights the three key facets of Epstein's life: his instrumental role in the Beatles' astronomical success, his Jewish heritage, and his sexuality. The film unfurls on a broader canvas than the 1991 drama "The Hours and Times," which offered a more intimate and nuanced portrayal of Epstein's relationship with John Lennon. While this new biopic may lack the raw authenticity of its predecessor, it compensates with lavish costumes and a grand finale, showcasing the Beatles in all their flower-adorned, brocade-clad glory as they film a live international broadcast, just before Epstein's untimely death in 1967 at the age of 32.

The Bittersweet Journey of a Gay Trailblazer

Beneath the veneer of the Beatles' triumphant success, the film paints a poignant portrait of Epstein's personal struggles. Stripped of the financial rewards he amassed through his management of the band and other artists, Epstein's story emerges as a classic tale of gay martyrdom. The film delves into his semi-closeted existence, the despair and suffering he endured, and the toxic relationship he shared with an American lover, Tex Ellington (Ed Speleers), who ultimately robs and humiliates him. Amidst the darkness, the film finds a glimmer of light in the unwavering love and support of Epstein's mother, Queenie (Emily Watson), who stands as a beacon of acceptance in the face of his father's (Eddie Marsan) inability to understand his son's sexuality.

Capturing the Essence of the Beatles' Charisma

The film's limited budget presents challenges in recreating key moments from the Beatles' history, with the exception of the iconic Royal Variety Show where John Lennon famously told the wealthy audience to "rattle their jewelry." Lacking the rights to the Fab Four's music, the film relies on the quartet playing the Beatles to convey the band's youthful charisma through energetic covers of other artists' tunes in the early scenes. While Jonah Lees as Lennon stands out, the overall portrayal of the band members lacks the gritty edge of rock 'n' roll. However, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd's empathetic performance as Epstein anchors the film, guiding the audience through the stations of the manager's short but impactful life.

Unveiling the Complexities of a Music Industry Trailblazer

The film's use of lashings of archive footage and theatrical techniques, such as split-screen projections and fourth-wall-breaking monologues, serves to distract from the budgetary constraints and transport the viewer into the world of Epstein and the Beatles. While the narrative may err on the side of sanctification, it nonetheless offers a compelling exploration of the man who played a pivotal role in shaping one of the most iconic bands in music history. Through its nuanced portrayal of Epstein's personal struggles and professional triumphs, the film invites the audience to delve deeper into the complexities of a music industry trailblazer whose legacy continues to captivate and inspire.