In 1964, The Beatles believed that conquering America was the peak of their career.

“This trip brought them such joy and freedom,” remarks David Tedeschi, the director of the new documentary “Beatles ‘64” available on Disney+ from Friday. The film captures the iconic band and their number one fans during the frenzied moments before and after their famous performance on “The Ed Sullivan Show” on February 9. “Later in 1964, they didn’t experience the same thrill as they did that February.”

The documentary features footage shot by Albert and David Maysles for a little-known 1964 television documentary called “What’s Happening! The Beatles in the USA.” It includes new interviews with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, along with memories shared by early fans. Martin Scorsese, one of the producers, also showcases Starr’s meticulously preserved Beatles outfits, featuring the drummer’s striking hot pink “Sgt. Pepper” uniform and a green pinstriped jacket from “Hey Jude.”

Viewers will be especially excited by the restored original 16 mm film, where the live performances have been enhanced by Peter Jackson’s WingNut Films and remixed by Beatles producer Giles Martin. Fans can finally relish the sounds of the band’s legendary first concert at the Washington Coliseum, free from the overwhelming noise of the enthusiastic crowd.

YSL News interviewed Tedeschi about what audiences can look forward to in “Beatles ‘64”:

(Edited and condensed for clarity.)

Question: Although fans may recognize a lot of the footage, much of the Maysles brothers’ documentary remains unknown to many. Why focus on this aspect for your new project?

David Tedeschi: We discovered 17 minutes of unseen footage from the Maysles, alongside numerous other clips. Apple realized this particular aspect of their story hadn’t been fully explored in “What’s Happening!”

I’d never witnessed the fans’ exuberance as portrayed here. They express their experiences articulate in both new interviews and in footage from 1964, when they were much younger. This perspective adds a deep emotional layer to the film.

Another fascinating aspect is how this journey serves as the inspiration for “A Hard Day’s Night.” You can see moments of fun as they travel from New York to Washington.

This truly captures their essence. The excitement was palpable, and arriving in the U.S. was a dream come true. During a press conference, when asked about their ambitions, George Harrison humorously responded, “To come to America.” But he meant it sincerely as well.

The trailer showcases this spine-tingling moment when they disembark the plane upon returning from America, filmed from their viewpoint. Were there any other sequences you found particularly significant about their adventure?

During their rehearsal, a horde of young fans rushes towards them. The band appears unsure if they can exit the car, as throngs of people sprint alongside. The Washington performance was astonishing. The footage truly pulled me into 1964, giving a vivid sense of what The Beatles were like as a live act.

Nearly everyone in the documentary shares who their favorite Beatle was, a common practice back then.

Jamie Bernstein, daughter of Leonard, expresses it well: Being a Beatlemaniac meant having a favorite. She adored George but later switched her preference to John Lennon. Ultimately, she appreciates all of them.

Ronnie Spector recounts how The Ronettes were able to take the Beatles for barbecue in Spanish Harlem without anyone recognizing them. Such an event likely wouldn’t have occurred at any other point during their visit.

It’s important to note that this was before their appearance on “Sullivan.” At that time, “I Want to Hold Your Hand” was topping the charts, and The Beatles were constantly played on the radio, yet many people couldn’t match their names to their faces.

The documentary reveals the apprehension The Beatles felt as they flew into the U.S., with John even mentioning Lee Harvey Oswald. Were they worried about their safety following the assassination of President Kennedy?

Their main worry was that nobody would be there to greet them at Kennedy Airport. They were uncertain about what to expect. Even notable figures like Frank Sinatra doubted that The Beatles would have a lasting impact in New York, as no British artist previously had.

Brian Epstein, the band’s manager, was very cautious about their security because he wanted to protect them. John brought up Oswald due to his deep sensitivity and understanding of the potential dangers surrounding them.

Their experience at the British Embassy, where a guest even cut a piece of Ringo’s hair, was quite unpleasant.

Imagine being the guest of honor, yet being treated poorly as if you are considered low class.

If you ask Paul what he would communicate to John and George if they were present today, how emotional was that moment for both of you?

It took place after a very long day filled with one question after another. Paul looked at the question and remarked, “It’s a doozy, isn’t it?”

Yes, the moment carried a lot of emotional weight.