Martin Scorsese to Direct George Harrison Documentary

Famed director Martin Scorsese is planning his next project after the recent success of his thriller Shutter Island. Spinner.com has reported that the director has confirmed his intent to direct a documentary about George Harrison, the quiet Beatle as he’s been called before. Not only is this great news for Beatles and Harrison fans, but also it’s quite a surprise to the world to hear that he’s been working on this for almost three years quietly.

Scorsese has been collaborating with Harrison’s widow Olivia and the film, which tentatively titled Living in the Material World: George Harrison. The film is said to cover the whole life of the musician. Commenting on the film, the director said, “His music is very important to me so I was interested in the journey that he took as an artist. The film is an exploration. We don’t know. We’re just feeling our way through.”

Those who remember Scorsese’s last foray into the musical documentary world will recall The Last Waltz, a 1978 film that extensively covered The Band’s final concert, as well as his recent film on Bob Dylan from 2005, No Direction Home, and the 2008 film, Shine A Light, that explored the Rolling Stones.

The film is in post-production at this time and no release date has been noted as of yet. But with the access that Harrison’s widow has given Scorsese to the departed artist’s video archives is unprecedented. I for one am looking forward to hearing and seeing more on this notoriously quiet genius. Keep an eye on the news for more information in the coming months.