After doing light entertainment movies like "A Hard Days Night" and "Help!" to complement their music, the Beatles worked on another film project on in 1968. Due to the band’s edgier attitude at that time, they needed a new direction to take their film efforts to, and with German artist Heinz Edelmann on board, "Yellow Submarine" was born.

This is the "Yellow Submarine" on DVD - a full-length animated film, from 1968, featuring a very psychedelic Beatles on a mission a cartoon classic for everyone and of all ages.

The story involves a musical paradise, full of peace and love, being attacked and conquered by the Blue Meanie invasion force - intent of ridding this place, Pepperland, of joy and colour. Yet one man, Captain Fred, manages to escape in his yellow submarine and he goes in search of the Beatles, who, through their singing, possess the means to stopping the meanies. Fortunately, the Beatles agree to take part in this quest and the adventure begins. On their way to Pepperland, we witness the Fab Four visit a myriad of strange and wondrous places (as well as meeting the Nowhere Man). And, finally, as the Beatles sing so the evil powers of the Blue Meanies fade away.

It's fun and entertaining, and the music, well, it’s just fantastic. Four (then) new songs were included in the movie: All Together Now, Hey Bulldog, Only A Northern Song and It's All Too Much. Several other Beatles songs also feature, including Eleanor Rigby, When I'm Sixty-Four, Nowhere Man, Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds, All You Need Is Love, and of course the title track Yellow Submarine.

The Beatles – John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr didn't provide the voice work in the film, although the voice actors do a great job. As for featuring in the film the Fab Four make a brief appearance at the end.

If you're a Beatles fan then I highly recommend this movie. It's fun for children and adults alike sending a very positive message. It now stands as a timeless classic. This is also a great way to introduce your young ones to some terrific music of the Beatles. They may quickly find it among their new favorites and spread the word to their friends.

“Yellow Submarine" is clear on your screen, with some of the most brilliant colors ever seen on a DVD. The film is presented in its original 1.66:1. aspect ratio that is sharp and contains a good level of detail.

Not only does this release appeal to Beatles fans all over the world, it also gives all other DVD owners the chance to enjoy the movie for its unique drawing and animation style, as well as its technical aspects. This disc is really cool.

Run time: ‎ 1 hour and 25 minutes

Release date: ‎ 14^th September, 1999

Label: MGM Home Entertainment

Rating: *****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira