They Don't Need Help

I was recently at the Alex Theatre in Glendale to watch A Hard Day's Night. I own it on DVD, but there's nothing like seeing it with an audience.

The film was made just when the Beatles had become world famous. It was not an expensive affair--the main idea was to get the thing out before the fad was over. And somehow, with a magic mix of talent, they turned out one of the most entertaining films ever.

Most rock star vehicles are beyond stupid. A Hard Day's Night is smart and witty. Many musicals have plots that are little more than glue holding the songs together. A Hard Day's Night would be great even without the music. Most great comedies feel effortless. A Hard Day's Night seems practically off the cuff.

Much of the credit goes to director Richard Lester. The fast editing (for its day) and shaky camera has been much copied, but the film still comes across as stylish. And he's in tune with The Beatles' style of comedy. The throwaway dialogue and visual humor come across with an insouciance that he'd never repeat (though he tried). He even pulls off a few lyrical moments.

Just as important is Alun Owen's screenplay. Having the group play themselves is a great idea, but writing for someone to play himself is harder than it sounds. Yet, you can almost believe The Beatles are ad libbing their parts.

The Fab Four were not professional actors, but they've never come across better. John, with his big personality, may be the most memorable. Then there's sad sack Ringo, who's not only funny, but adds a bit of pathos. George is witty, though in a quieter way. Paul, for whatever reason, makes the least impression. (Perhaps because the others all have their special moments and scenes, while Paul's big scene was cut.) Of course, they're all wonderful when they come together and play.

Lester, Owen and producer Walter Shenson were also very smart to surround the band with expert comic players, such as Norman Rossington, Wilfrid Brambell and Norman Spinetti. The Beatles are the center of the story, but not required to carry all the weight.

If you haven't seen it in a while, buy or rent it. Or better, go see it with a crowd.