‘Man on the Run’ Review: An Exuberant and Deftly Crafted Portrait of Paul McCartney’s Post-Beatles Second Act

Hollywood Reporter

by Sheri Linden

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Morgan Neville’s documentary *Man on the Run* offers an insightful and lively exploration of Paul McCartney’s career after The Beatles broke up, showcasing his remarkable creativity and resilience during a transformative decade. Instead of focusing on album-by-album details or talking-head interviews, the film uses offscreen commentary from new and vintage interviews to provide a fresh perspective. Archival footage and sharp editing highlight McCartney’s musical genius, blending humor, emotion, and a deep connection to his Liverpool roots. The documentary also delves into two key relationships: his enduring bond with John Lennon, despite their professional struggles, and his lifelong partnership with Linda McCartney, who played a crucial role in shaping his solo journey. The film opens with the aftermath of The Beatles’ breakup, when McCartney felt uncertain about his future as a songwriter. He retreated to a remote Scottish farm with Linda, where they started a family and began creating music again. This period marked the start of McCartney’s solo career, including the experimental *Ram* album, which faced mixed reviews but is now celebrated for its artistic merits. The documentary captures McCartney’s willingness to embrace both whimsy and vulnerability in his work, as seen in his early TV specials and collaborations with Wings. While critics sometimes dismissed these efforts as overly sentimental, McCartney himself embraces this side of his artistry, acknowledging the playful and heartfelt elements that define his unique style. *Man on the Run* ultimately serves as a testament to McCartney’s enduring legacy and his ability to reinvent himself after one

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/25/2026