The Rock & Roll Americana Auction

Lot #71:

The Beatles Original Historic 8/15/1965 Shea Stadium 16mm Concert Film

The Beatles Original Historic 8/15/1965 Shea Stadium 16mm Concert Film.

This was the Beatles' groundbreaking concert for 55,600 screaming fans on August 15, 1965. The film's running time approx: 50 minutes. It showcased how the event unfolded including the helicopter flyover. The Fabs were not allowed to land on the baseball field so they had to land on the World's Fair building and ride to the stadium in an armored truck.

Other features include showing the Beatles backstage and some of the opening acts. Ed Sullivan introduced the Beatles. Two songs were also cut from the final edit. Up to this point there was never a live event this large for a rock n roll group. Beatles manager Brian Epstein initially told Sid Bernstein no to Shea. He did not want his boys playing to empty seats. As it turned out he did not have to worry.

This is a 16 millimeter print in Very Good Plus condition. The can shows wear and holds the film firmly in place.

As John Lennon told the promoter Sid Bernstein many years later. John turned to me and said, 'Sid, at Shea Stadium, I saw the top of the mountain.' There was a mistiness in his eyes." This example will make a great addition to any Beatles collection.

Authentication: Gotta Have Rock and Roll Certificate of Authenticity.