Irish actor Paul Mescal will portray Paul McCartney in the upcoming biographical project "The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event," directed by Sam Mendes. Filming began in early March 2026 in Liverpool and is set to continue throughout the year.
Why it matters: This ambitious project marks the first comprehensive multi-perspective chronicle of the Beatles' studio and personal dynamics, offering audiences unique insights into the lives of each band member.
All four films will be released simultaneously in theaters in April 2028, maximizing global theatrical impact.
The ensemble cast includes Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison, and Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney.
Each film will explore the band's history through the distinct perspective of each member, highlighting their individual contributions and conflicts.
Driving the news: Production crews have transformed Liverpool into mid-century streetscapes, capturing the essence of the 1950s and 1960s. The BBC reported on March 4, 2026, that Mescal and Keoghan were seen filming at locations like the Crosby Plaza Cinema.
Filming will occupy the entire year of 2026, indicating a commitment to authenticity in recreating the Beatles' experiences.
The project received direct approval from Paul McCartney, age 83, who engaged in casting decisions for the film.
Filmmakers are utilizing both contemporary insights from McCartney and archival documentation to inform the narrative.
State of play: The four-film format allows for an exploration of conflicting narratives about songwriting credits, creative control, and internal tensions within the band. Each member's unique perspective will be showcased.
McCartney is known for his melodic pop-oriented direction post-1965, contrasting with Lennon's experimental approach and Harrison's struggle for songwriting recognition.
Starr's role as the rhythmic anchor of the band will also be explored, highlighting his personal challenges during the band's peak.
This format enables the films to depict key moments such as the Abbey Road and Let It Be recording sessions from radically different emotional registers.
The big picture: As the Beatles' catalog remains largely exempt from most streaming platforms, this project aims to fill a gap in narrative drama surrounding the iconic band.
No previous narrative drama has attempted a comprehensive, dramatically structured account of the Beatles' studio evolution and interpersonal chaos.
The timing is strategic; the band's disbandment in 1970 allows for sensitive topics like drug use and infidelity to be depicted without legal repercussions.
Mescal's casting reflects a deliberate choice to capture McCartney's intellectual intensity and physical expressiveness, ensuring an authentic portrayal.
What they're saying: Mescal has expressed his dedication to the project, emphasizing the intensity of the filming schedule.
"I hope nobody gets to see me until 2028 when I’m doing the Beatles thing," Mescal remarked during the January 2026 awards circuit.
This commitment demonstrates his serious artistic investment in the role, distancing himself from public appearances during production.
His recent award nominations, including an Oscar nomination for "Aftersun," indicate his capability for sustained credibility in this high-profile project.
By the numbers: The production schedule spans the full year of 2026, with all four films set for simultaneous release in April 2028.
The ensemble cast features four prominent actors, each portraying one of the Beatles, with Saoirse Ronan playing Linda McCartney.
Filming locations include various historic sites in Liverpool, which have been reimagined to represent the band's formative years.
McCartney's active involvement in the project adds a layer of authenticity, as he provides insights into his life and career.
What's next: As filming progresses, audiences can expect a deep exploration of the personal and professional dynamics that shaped the Beatles.
The filmmakers aim to deliver a narrative that captures the essence of the band's creativity and the tensions that led to their eventual dissolution.
With the planned release in 2028, anticipation will build as the project promises to redefine the Beatles' narrative in popular culture.
Mescal's portrayal of McCartney is expected to resonate with audiences, potentially reshaping perceptions of the legendary musician.