Robert Zemeckis Films Ranked: #13 – ‘I Wanna Hold Your Hand’ (1978)

by

#13 in my ranking of Robert Zemeckis films.

Robert Zemeckis successfully handled ensemble pieces with his debut movie, which was initially a risk due to its complex nature. He got the opportunity to direct this film with Universal Studios because Steven Spielberg agreed to finish it if needed. Despite these challenges, Zemeckis proved himself, launching a long and successful career in cinema. Collaborating with his friend Bob Gale, Zemeckis showcased many elements that would become his signature style and solidify his influence in American popular film with this first feature-length movie.

1964 finds The Beatles making their American debut on The Ed Sullivan Show. A band of enthusiastic teenagers from New Jersey are determined to reach New York City to catch a glimpse of the sensational new rock band whose tunes have taken America by storm. Within this group are Pam (Nancy Allen), who’s about to elope and become a bride tomorrow, Janis (Susan Newman) who vehemently dislikes The Beatles and aims to express her distaste to the world, Rosie (Wendie Jo Sperber) who is a die-hard fan and knows everything there is to know about them, and Grace (Theresa Saldana) who yearns for an exclusive photo of The Beatles to sell to the local newspaper and kick-start her photography career. Each character has distinct goals and motivations that lead them towards New York City and eventually, The Ed Sullivan Show audience. These characters are skillfully crafted by Zemeckis, showcasing their strong desires all revolving around a common goal, often seen in his later works. The story unfolds like a thrilling roller coaster ride, and it proves to be quite engaging.

As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, I’m recounting an intriguing tale from Robert Zemeckis’ filmography – “I Wanna Hold Your Hand.” In this movie, we persuade Larry, the local funeral director’s son, to lend his dad’s limo so we can sneak near the hotel and closer to the Beatles. Once in New York, the group starts to fragment, adding a fun twist to the storyline.

One of the charms of Zemeckis’ films is his meticulous planning – he skillfully seeds small elements early on that pay off later, making the movie a captivating jigsaw puzzle. For instance, Pam accidentally slips into a cart that enters the Beatles’ room while they’re out, unleashing her inner Beatlemaniac and eventually landing her a concert ticket. Janis takes Larry around town trying to find a barber for him so his father would give him the three tickets he has for the show in exchange. Rosie meets another Beatlemaniac guy and they bond over their shared passion, but clash because one isn’t as dedicated as the other – eventually reuniting because Rosie wins two tickets on the radio.

Grace resorts to a daring scheme to get the $50 she needs – posing as a prostitute to pay off the stagehand who lets her in through the stage door. However, she hides in the closet instead and jumps out with her camera while John was with the real prostitute, earning her money through extortion rather than prostitution. This film is a delightful blend of humor, drama, and the infectious enthusiasm for the Beatles that sweeps through every character.

As the diverse collection of tales merge, the movie gains momentum, gathering speed. One issue with the film lies in its initial hour being surprisingly tranquil given the appearance of a chaotic journey, yet this serenity vanishes once the action truly begins to unite everyone. The characters’ progression throughout the story until that point is consistently engaging, albeit lacking the expected frenetic energy. By the theater, where the friends reunite, it seems as though the audience is under the capable and experienced guidance of the directors.

In this production, none of the characters are exceptionally complex, instead they are distinctively defined through their individual traits and ambitions. This method of character development can be quite effective in an ensemble storyline. Each character has a unique objective, yet they all converge around a common goal, giving rise to varied dynamics while maintaining unity within the narrative. The director, Robert Zemeckis, who is new to this role, masterfully balances these elements, creating a fascinating whole.

This movie humorously employs stand-ins for the Beatles’ iconic stage appearance, creating an enjoyable watch. It boasts lively performances throughout and offers a particularly engaging third part. This film marks Robert Zemeckis’ assured debut in full-length directorial work.

Read More

2025-01-13 00:30