MUBI

Outstanding musical that actually grows in estimation long after viewing. Certain numbers are stronger than others, but like all great musicals, the best ones are unforgettable (‘Hold Your Hand’, ‘I Want You (She’s So Heavy)‘, and ’Let it Be’ come to mind).
A strong set of central characters, all named from Beatles’ songs, help the film move better through the slower parts (like all musicals, the narrative structure is a bit uneven). Impressive turns by the two leads, Jim Sturges (a real find) and Evan Rachel Wood (slightly miscast, but stellar as usual…and her singing is a true revelation…a powerful addition to an already impressive set of acting chops). But it is the supporting cast that steals the show, most notably Joe Anderson as Max. One would feel cameos by Joe Cocker, Bono, and Eddie Izzard would throw such a film off-balance, but their egos are checked at the door and they blend into the story so well that they don’t.
The Beatles songs work well in that the viewer is already familiar with them, and will find delight in the playful context that Taymor sets up (“Dear Prudence, won’t you COME OUT and play?”… "Do you believe in love at first sight (as Max & co. see a pretty girl walk by)… yeah I’m certain it happens all the time (Jude skeptically doubting their sincerity).
Mark Friedberg’s art direction and Albert Wolsky’s costume designs are spectacular. The movie, as mentioned before is absolutely beautiful.
Many might criticize the movie for being uneven or too lightweight, but the power of its imagery and the high you leave with after viewing outweigh these slight flaws.