8th of Dec, 2025.

The Beatles Biopics: Why Sam Mendes’ Cinematic Event CAN Shine a Light on SL’s Film-Friendly Locations

Key Takeaways:

Sam Mendes’ ambitious four-part Beatles biopic series is now in production, marking an unprecedented moment in music–film history.
If similar large-scale productions were to base themselves in Surrey, SL’s locations and studios would offer world-class facilities, versatile landscapes and seamless access to London.

Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes has begun production on his bold new project: The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event. This innovative endeavour comprises four interconnected biopics, each told from the perspective of a different Beatle. Filming is now underway at Bovingdon Airfield Studios, where Mendes also shot 1917. With over 100 acres of production infrastructure – including four sound stages and 60 acres of adaptable backlot – Bovingdon provides the scale required for a project of this magnitude.

This landmark series represents the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles have granted full life-story and music rights for a scripted feature. It’s an extraordinary moment for fans and the industry alike. Produced by Sony Pictures Entertainment, Neal Street Productions and Mendes himself, the project brings together a formidable writing team including Jez Butterworth, Peter Straughan and Jack Thorne.

The cast list is just as impressive:

Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney
Joseph Quinn as George Harrison
Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr
Harris Dickinson as John Lennon

Mendes has described the films as the “first binge-able theatrical experience,” reshaping how audiences may engage with cinema events in the future.

OUR LOCATIONS

If the Beatles Biopics Filmed in SL…

While Sam Mendes’ production is centred at Bovingdon and set to capture iconic locations such as Abbey Road, it’s easy to imagine how a project of this scale could thrive within the SL network of studios and filming spaces. From expansive industrial warehouses to high-spec sound stages, SL offers a wealth of adaptable environments suited to music-driven storytelling and detailed period recreations.

Hampshire Studios

Hampshire Studios delivers a fully equipped production environment built by industry professionals with first-hand knowledge of modern film and high-end television needs. With high-spec stages, built-in support services and seamless on-site logistics, it’s perfectly suited for ambitious multi-film projects like Mendes’ Beatles biopics.

Set within a world-class events complex, the studios offer:

Access to expansive exhibition halls ideal for large-scale set builds.
Flexible filming spaces adaptable to everything from 1960s Liverpool backstreets to replica recording studios.
Ample parking, generous unit base capacity and essential infrastructure such as water and power, ensuring effortless daily operations.

The dedicated on-site team supports productions from pre-prep through to wrap, making Hampshire Studios a strong contender for any project requiring both scale and precision.

New Inn Yard Warehouse

With 13,000 square feet spread across five interconnected studios, New Inn Yard Warehouse provides a blank canvas in the heart of East London with exceptional creative potential. Its double-height ceilings, polished concrete floors and whitewashed industrial aesthetic offer an ideal foundation for stylised interiors, rehearsal spaces, or gritty gig venues.

Key features include:

Street-level vehicle access for smooth load-ins.
3-phase power (125/63 amps) for high-energy lighting and tech setups.
Expansive windows that bathe the space in natural light—perfect for capturing evocative moments or creating period-accurate atmospheres.

Its East London character makes it especially well-suited to recreating early Beatles-era venues or atmospheric city backdrops.

Surrey Quays Warehouse

Bringing together the adaptability of black-box architecture with the practicality of a modern venue, Surrey Quays Warehouse offers over 6 metres of ceiling height and a completely open-plan steel-framed structure. Accommodating up to 1,500 people, it’s ideal for large set builds, performance sequences, or immersive, stylised environments.

The abundance of natural light and fully customisable interior make it perfect for:

Replicating concert stages or television studio performances.
Constructing detailed period sets with controlled lighting.
Housing complex unit builds requiring large, uninterrupted floor space.

With unparalleled flexibility, Surrey Quays Warehouse could effortlessly support everything from intimate character scenes to large-scale musical set pieces.

Thinking of Listing Your Property With SL?

If you’re a homeowner, venue operator or landowner and you’ve ever wondered whether your space could work for film or TV — the answer is usually yes.

SL offers:

full guidance on how to prepare your property
access to professional photography
exposure to scouts, location managers and producers
damage deposit protection
a friendly, fair and transparent approach
proactive marketing to productions looking right now

List Your Space

FILM LOCATIONS: BEATLES BIOPICS