November 2015 Auction Ends Thursday, November 19th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/19/2015
August 1963 8mm film footage of The Beatles, never before broadcast in its entirety, and possibly the earliest color footage of the iconic group, with transfer of copyright. On 25 August 1963, The Beatles performed at the ABC Theatre in Blackpool, England, shortly before Beatlemania hit the world. At this concert, fellow musician Chas McDevitt shot footage of them performing and also backstage, lasting approximately 3 1/2 minutes. Shooting from the side curtain, McDevitt captures The Beatles performing on stage with John Lennon doing his "spastic" routine, though most of the film is of the Fab Four playfully mucking about backstage. The film is soundless, but the viewer sees them reading fan letters, with John Lennon in particular being very animated, playing with musician Hank Marvin's glasses, and combing and styling his hair in a comical manner. George Harrison is shown playing his guitar and all four are seen talking to various people backstage. The playful essence of early Beatles is on full display. In addition to the film spool itself, lot includes two letters: one from Sotheby's, referencing the auction where this film originally sold (lot 399 in their Rock & Film Memorabilia sale on 15 September 1999), and referencing an enclosed letter where Chas McDevitt relinquishes copyright to the film. This letter is also included, where McDevitt indeed releases copyright to the new owner, who is the consignor of this lot and will transfer ownership to the winning bidder. Lot also includes original concert program with date of "Sunday, August 25th", corresponding to the year of 1963, listing both The Beatles and Chas McDevitt as performers. Kodak film cartridge has handwritten labels that read, "Beatles Blackpool 1964 [sic]", "Beatles / on stage 4 in room", "Blackpool" and "Indoor Film / ASA.40". All items in very good condition, with film spool in particular intact and well preserved.
The Beatles Concert & Backstage Footage From August 1963 -- Possibly the Earliest Color Footage of The Beatles -- With Copyright & Provenance From Sotheby's
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