The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash

Synopsis

Released in 1978, The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash is a satirical mockumentary that parodies the rise and fall of the legendary rock band, The Beatles. Directed by Eric Idle and featuring a stellar cast including Neil Innes, Michael Palin, and John Halsey, the film cleverly presents the fictional band 'The Rutles' through a faux-documentary format reminiscent of 'The Beatles Anthology'. The story chronicles the band's meteoric rise from humble beginnings in the fictional English town of Rutlepool to global superstardom, touching on their innovative music, exciting tours, and the inevitable pressures of fame. Specially crafted songs, rich in Beatles references, drive the narrative while providing hilarious commentary on the music industry and celebrity culture. The film stands as both a comedic tribute to The Beatles and a scathing yet affectionate critique of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, appealing to fans of all ages, especially those who appreciate witty humor and musical irony.

Cast

• 

  Eric Idle

  Dirk McQuickly/The Narrator/S.J. Krammerhead

• 

  Neil Innes

  Ron Nasty

• 

  Ricky Fataar

  Stig O'Hara

• John Halsey

  Barry Womble

• 

  Michael Palin

  Eric Manchester

• 

  Mick Jagger

  Self - Rock Star

Reviews

Critics have largely praised The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash for its clever humor and musical brilliance. With an impressive 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a respectable IMDb score of 7.3/10, the film is considered a cult classic. According to Roger Ebert, the film is 'a brilliant satire that captures the spirit of the times with a sharp wit.' He valued its innovative approach to storytelling, stating, 'It captures the essence of the Beatles' rise and the absurdity of fame.' Additionally, Metacritic users have enjoyed the film, reflecting a general appreciation for its originality with a user score that resonates with fans. The Guardian described it as 'a light-hearted romp filled with clever lyrics and laugh-out-loud moments,' emphasizing its nostalgic charm. However, some criticism noted that the film's pacing might feel uneven to those unfamiliar with The Beatles. Overall, the film's cultural impact and humorous portrayal of a beloved music icon continue to resonate with audiences, making it a noteworthy piece in comedic cinema.