Anna Sawai is set to portray Yoko Ono in filmmaker Sam Mendes’ ambitious series of Beatles films, scheduled for release in April 2028. The actress described the experience of playing Ono as inspiring, highlighting the significance of sharing the story of this influential Japanese artist, known especially for her marriage to John Lennon and the impact she had on his life and career.
Sawai Reflects on Ono’s Legacy and Public Perception
In a recent interview with People, Sawai expressed admiration for Ono’s artistry and independence, emphasizing how the public often misunderstood her. She said,
“It’s just exciting because her story is so inspirational to me, and people really don’t know the true person that she was,”
Sawai explained. She added,
“She’s an incredible artist. And also, she just was an independent woman and people didn’t like that. They wanted John for themselves and she was an easy target. And I think it’s very meaningful for me to be able to tell her story.”
Sawai also shared her personal admiration for Ono’s boldness, saying,
“Just how bold she is. Oh my God, I love her. She’s so cool.”
Overview of Sam Mendes’ Beatles Films and Cast
The Beatles project directed by Sam Mendes will consist of four separate biopics, each focusing on a different member of the legendary British band. Alongside Sawai as Yoko Ono, the key cast includes Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, and Harris Dickinson as John Lennon. The ensemble also features Mia McKenna-Bruce, Saoirse Ronan, and Aimee Lou Wood, who portray significant women connected to the band members.
This series represents a groundbreaking collaboration, as Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles members — including McCartney, Starr, and the families of the late Lennon and Harrison — have granted full rights to their life stories and music for the first time in a scripted film project.
Significance of the Project and What to Expect
Sam Mendes’ Beatles films are set to offer an unprecedented, detailed look into the lives of the band members and those closest to them, providing deeper insight into their personal stories and cultural impact. With Anna Sawai bringing a nuanced portrayal of Yoko Ono, the films aim to challenge existing perceptions and celebrate the artists’ legacies. The release of these films could redefine how modern audiences understand The Beatles’ history and the roles played by the women in their lives.
