1984 was 20 years since the Beatles arrived on the scene. Like others, I had 20 years of non-stop enjoyment from Beatles music and subsequently the solo career of Paul McCartney. And that has never stopped for almost 30 more years.
In 1984, Paul McCartney decided to make a movie that he would write from his own script and his own music. It was called "Give My Regards to Broad Street."
In 1982, I started the world's first online (and only) showbiz entertainment service. By 1984, I was the main movie reviewer but had others reviewing as well.
I looked forward to see an advanced preview of Paul's movie. I went to many studio movie previews with other reviewers every week.
To my absolute surprise, this became something extremely special when Paul and Linda McCartney walked in and sat down in the row in front of me just to the left! It was like a dream. I was going to go talk to him, but the studio executives guarding him were making it clear that he was not to be bothered.
The movie was like a big music video. It had its moments--like the production number for "Ballroom Dancing"--but was what it was.
And the room full of movie critics sat there clearly not overwhelmed as it played on.
When the movie ended and the credits came on, there was absolute silence in the room.
I looked over and saw Paul very uncomfortable by the total non-response.
This was the moment I was going to pay Paul McCartney back for 20 years of music heaven.
I started applauding loudly and wildly. Then a second person followed. And a third. Then the whole room followed in unison, probably more of a tribute to Paul for his musical legacy than his movie.
The famous Beatle now was smiling and I was the one that made this happen.
As I left the theater, a fan was outside.
"Paul McCartney's in there!," he said to me.
"Yes, I know."
