A Closer Look at “Midas Man”: The Brian Epstein Biopic on Amazon Prime
Recently, I had the captivating experience of attending an advanced screening of Amazon Prime’s much-anticipated biopic “Midas Man,” which chronicles the fascinating life of Brian Epstein, the legendary manager of The Beatles. It was quite a thrill to find myself seated next to none other than renowned presenter Paul Gambaccini, a devoted Beatles fan who has had the unique privilege of knowing not only the iconic Fab Four but also other pivotal figures like Pete Best and Stuart Sutcliffe’s sister. Together, we exchanged our excitement and insights about the enduring legacy of this groundbreaking band.
As the lights dimmed, Gambaccini voiced a common concern among Beatles aficionados, hoping that this film wouldn’t follow the trend of previous productions that lacked the iconic music of Lennon and McCartney. Unfortunately, “Midas Man” joins the ranks of other films, like “In His Life: The John Lennon Story” and “Lennon Naked,” which do not feature the original compositions. While this absence is somewhat frustrating, it does present a significant financial and legal hurdle; acquiring the rights to Beatles music can cost millions, as evidenced by the 2019 film “Yesterday,” which allocated 40% of its budget to this issue.
“Midas Man” follows Epstein’s journey from an underwhelming manager in his family’s furniture and musical instrument shop to realizing his ambitious dream of making The Beatles “bigger than Elvis.” Jacob Fortune-Lloyd’s portrayal of Epstein is masterful, capturing both the charismatic and complex aspects of his personality. The film explores Epstein’s struggles with self-doubt amid success, balancing moments of vulnerability with his undeniable charm—the spark that drove him to become a powerful force in the entertainment industry.
While some reviews have critiqued the film for its portrayal of Epstein as oscillating between composure and despair, this multi-faceted representation is precisely what makes his character engaging. Epstein was a man of contradictions—both lonely and business savvy, obsessive yet endearing, as highlighted by Beatles biographer Craig Brown.
Although “Midas Man” weaves a tragic narrative, the screenwriters expertly balance emotion with subtlety, allowing viewers to experience profound moments without the filmmakers hammering home the pathos. Intriguingly, the film immerses audiences in the vibrant culture of 1960s Liverpool, effectively recreating the environment that birthed a music revolution.
Visually, the film is stunning, transporting viewers to iconic locations like the North End Music Store (NEMs), where Epstein’s journey began, and the electrifying performances at The Cavern Club. The set design brilliantly captures the juxtaposition of the era’s vibrancy and challenges.
In addition to Fortune-Lloyd’s standout performance, the supporting cast shines. Leo Harvey-Elledge’s comedic portrayal of George Harrison brings levity to the narrative, while Darci Shaw as Cilla Black adds a spirited touch. Veteran actors Eddie Marsan and Emily Watson portray Epstein’s parents, providing foundational context to Bram’s life, although their roles feel somewhat underexplored.
While die-hard Beatles fans might find familiar territory in “Midas Man,” the film’s exploration of Epstein’s life adds depth to a story that’s been dubbed “the greatest story ever told.” Insightful, emotional, and visually arresting, this biopic offers an enriching perspective on the man behind the music.
As we reflect on Epstein’s remarkable influence, “Midas Man” serves as a poignant reminder of how one individual’s vision transformed the landscape of popular culture.
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