Nowhere Boy

I enjoyed this film portrayal of John Lennon’s early life in Liverpool.  It focuses specifically on his upbringing by his Aunt Mimi, played in stark contrast to the free spirited Julia, his birth mother. You’ll learn the twisted intricacies of how this came to be and of  John’s rebellion toward this control, thankfully salved by his immersion into skiffle and Rock n Roll.
Memorable scenes include Julia teaching John some strumming technique while playing Maggie Mae on a banjo and  Paul McCartney’s character showing up with youthful charisma and talent in winning a place in the early band.
The acting is generally really good and the period styling is spot on – especially great are the British domestic touches – terrific wallpaper abounds – and the scene where John gets his first guitar at a music shop. Love the shopkeeper’s line after being bargained down “Just don’t shoot me!”
A really worthwhile and engaging film that may have a few inaccuracies but will fill in some knowledge gaps for fans and appreciators of the origins of the Beatles.

- Phil