In a groundbreaking announcement at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, it was revealed that Paul Mescal and Barry Keoghan will star as Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, respectively, in an upcoming series of films based on The Beatles.
These two Irish actors are set to bring the legendary Beatles duo to life, alongside a remarkable cast that includes Harris Dickinson as John Lennon and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. The event marked a pivotal moment, with all four actors taking the stage together in an iconic Beatles-like fashion, signaling the beginning of a project that promises to delve into the band’s history like never before.
The project, directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Sam Mendes, is a series of four interconnected films that will explore The Beatles’ story from the perspective of each of its members. These films will be released in close proximity to each other in April 2028, offering audiences a comprehensive look at the band’s journey through their eyes.
This marks a historic moment in cinema, as it’s the first time that The Beatles, along with the families of John Lennon and George Harrison, have granted full rights to their life stories and music for a scripted feature film project.
For Paul Mescal, who is taking on the role of Paul McCartney, this marks another major step in his blossoming career. The 29-year-old actor is no stranger to high-profile roles, having recently starred in the highly anticipated Gladiator sequel and receiving an Oscar nomination in 2023 for his role in Aftersun.
His casting as McCartney has generated significant excitement, as he brings a unique depth to the iconic musician, known for his talent, charm, and creative genius.
Barry Keoghan, who also garnered critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination for his role in The Banshees of Inisherin, will portray Ringo Starr, the beloved drummer of the group. Keoghan’s casting is another exciting choice, as the actor has consistently showcased his ability to bring complexity and nuance to his characters.
As Ringo Starr, he will undoubtedly add his own flair to the portrayal of the fun-loving and often overlooked member of the Beatles.
Meanwhile, Joseph Quinn, who became a fan favorite for his portrayal of Eddie Munson in Stranger Things, will step into the role of George Harrison. Quinn’s long-haired look in the Netflix series has already drawn comparisons to the late Beatles guitarist, and his transition to playing Harrison promises to be an intriguing one.
Known for his intense and heartfelt performances, Quinn is expected to capture the spiritual depth and quiet introspection that Harrison brought to the band.
The task of portraying the most famous Beatle, John Lennon, falls to Harris Dickinson, a 28-year-old actor who has recently impressed audiences with his performances in Babygirl and Triangle of Sadness. Dickinson’s versatility will be put to the test as he takes on the complex and often controversial figure of Lennon, whose legacy continues to shape the music world today.
His casting has already sparked discussions about how he will tackle the iconic role of one of the most influential musicians of all time.
Sam Mendes, the director behind this ambitious project, spoke to the audience at CinemaCon, emphasizing that despite The Beatles’ well-documented rise to fame, there remains “plenty to explore” in their story. Known for his work on films like American Beauty, 1917, and several James Bond movies, Mendes is no stranger to crafting visually stunning and emotionally resonant narratives.
His involvement in the project suggests that these films will not only be a historical retelling but also an artistic exploration of The Beatles’ profound impact on music and culture.
Sony Pictures chairman Tom Rothman further fueled excitement about the project, stating that the simultaneous release of all four films in April 2028 will create what he called “the first bingeable theatrical experience.” Rothman’s bold statement indicates that the films are expected to dominate cultural conversations upon their release.
With their deep exploration of The Beatles’ legacy and the star-studded cast, these films are set to be an unforgettable cinematic event that will undoubtedly shape the future of biographical storytelling in film.
