Morgan Neville’s new documentary Man on the Run explores Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles journey, illustrating how he navigated personal challenges and sought to reclaim his musical identity after the band dissolved. The film reflects on McCartney’s struggles with mental health and self-worth during this transformative period, reports BritPanorama.
In the film, McCartney recalls a 1970 interview in which he expressed a desire for “personal peace.” The candid insights reveal his grappling with depression and guilt surrounding The Beatles’ breakup, where he felt unjustly blamed for the band’s disbandment. “John broke up the Beatles, but I got the rap,” he states, suggesting his lingering pain. He candidly shares about his emotional state during this time, admitting, “I had fear of being a grown-up – I felt very depressed.” He also reflects on drinking as a coping mechanism, stating, “My only plan is to grow up,” when asked about his future shortly after the release of his debut solo album in 1970.
Seeking solace, McCartney turned to his family and their farmhouse in the Mull of Kintyre, Scotland. His life here provided a grounding experience that allowed him to re-evaluate his place in the world. The rustic environment is depicted in joyous home footage, showcasing his interactions with his wife, Linda, and their children. This familial bond offered him the confidence to pursue his music anew, including the controversial yet successful song inspired by his surroundings, “Mull of Kintyre.”
Paul McCartney was struggling mentally after The Beatles split
Despite the later acclaim for albums such as McCartney and Ram, McCartney’s initial solo efforts received mixed reviews, primarily due to their DIY production style. Additionally, his image began to suffer from various commercial missteps, causing him to be perceived as “the most uncool man in music.” He acknowledges these challenges, saying, “I get that,” regarding comparisons to John Lennon. However, he defends his more lighthearted approach to music, stating, “We are having fun – what’s wrong with that?”
Family life in Mull of Kintyre gave him a sense of purpose
McCartney’s time in Mull of Kintyre was both a retreat and a renaissance. He focused on his family life in modest conditions, rebuilding his purpose after the chaos of The Beatles. The documentary also highlights how the island inspired the authenticity behind “Mull of Kintyre,” showcasing footage of its creation and transforming it into more than just a pop-folk song.
The press and public were cruel and sexist towards Linda McCartney
The film portrays the challenges Linda McCartney faced from the media, contrasting her portrayal in public with her real-life persona as a supportive partner and creative collaborator. Mary McCartney reflects on her mother’s enduring courage, noting, “I know there was pain there, I know she hurt. But there was bravery there.” Paul McCartney affirms, “Anyone who badmouthed us made us stronger,” highlighting the resilience within their family.
The members of Wings found that some men are more equal than others
As McCartney formed Wings, attempts to establish a collaborative dynamic faced difficulties, often resulting in dissatisfaction among band members. The initial intent of equality was overshadowed by McCartney’s superstar status, leading to friction as members came and went. He defended his managerial approach, shaped by past experiences with The Beatles, stating he had not managed finances since that time.
Wings’ masterpiece ‘Band on the Run’ was almost a disaster
Despite the setbacks faced while recording Band on the Run in Lagos, which included a cholera warning and a robbery, McCartney emerged with a pivotal album that defined his solo career. “I went from anger into ‘fuck you’,” he recalls, a sentiment that rekindled his creative drive.
Macca nearly drowned off the coast of Hawaii
Personal risks were also part of McCartney’s narrative, including a near-drowning incident in Hawaii that he recounts in the film, candidly expressing existential musings on the event.
John and Paul could have produced the greatest TV moment ever
By 1976, speculation of a Beatles reunion flourished, aided by the revitalization of friendships between Lennon and McCartney. They almost made a surprise appearance on Saturday Night Live but opted instead for a quieter moment, illustrating their complex relationship.
The bag of marijuana that got McCartney arrested at Tokyo airport was absolutely massive
McCartney’s legal troubles also marked his post-Beatles career; an arrest in Japan due to marijuana possession threatened to derail his plans just as Wings faced declining momentum. The documentary reveals the chaos surrounding this incident, illustrating the stress it caused.
McCartney survived his post-Beatles adjustment – and finally grew up
The film concludes by echoing the themes of change and growth, as McCartney reflects on the journey from the Beatles’ breakup to a more fulfilled life, acknowledging, “It was a question of having to grow up.” As he progressed, McCartney learned to embrace his individuality in the music industry, ultimately achieving personal and professional harmony.
Paul McCartney: Man on the Run is out on Amazon Prime on 27 February
