The highly anticipated Beatles biopic series helmed by Academy Award-winning director Sam Mendes was officially unveiled during CinemaCon 2025. Known for his acclaimed works such as American Beauty, Skyfall, and 1917, Mendes is currently developing a remarkable project titled The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event. The announcement unveiled the lead actors who will portray iconic Beatles members: Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison. All four films are scheduled for theatrical release in April 2028.
As reported by Variety, Mendes aims to reignite audiences’ passion for the cinema with this major cinematic initiative, urging viewers to step away from their streaming services and into vibrant movie theaters. He stated, “We need big cinematic events to get people out of the house,”and announced plans to create the “first binge-able theatrical experience.”At this stage, details regarding whether the films will debut simultaneously or weekly throughout April remain unclear, as does the release order of each project.
Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney
Recognized for Gladiator II & Normal People
Paul Mescal has been cast as Paul McCartney in this ambitious biopic series. Mescal gained acclaim for his lead role as Lucius in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II and has delivered powerful performances in films like Aftersun and All of Us Strangers. His breakout role came from the successful romantic series Normal People, alongside actress Daisy Edgar-Jones. At 29 years of age and hailing from Maynooth, Ireland, Mescal boasts significant acting prowess, earning nominations for esteemed awards, including the Oscars and BAFTAs.
Interestingly, McCartney, who remains one of the Beatles’ two surviving members alongside Ringo Starr, will be prominently featured through the lens of Mescal’s interpretation. As Mescal prepares for this role, it’s expected he will embody a youthful McCartney, although the specific era covered in the film remains undisclosed. Mescal’s musicality is evident as he showcased his talent in the film Carmen from 2022, suggesting he can authentically capture McCartney’s artistry and charismatic presence.
Harris Dickinson as John Lennon
Known for The Iron Claw & Babygirl
Taking on the role of John Lennon is Harris Dickinson, an actor whose portfolio includes notable recent works such as Triangle of Sadness, The Iron Claw, and Babygirl. Dickinson first gained wide recognition with his performance in Beach Rats and later depicted Prince Philip in Maleficent: Mistress of Evil. At 28 years old and a native of London, Dickinson is suitably positioned, given his proximity to Lennon’s birthplace in Liverpool.
Lennon’s tragic assassination in December 1980 at 40 years old is a poignant aspect to consider. While it’s unlikely Dickinson will portray Lennon in his 40s, his ability to embody Lennon in his vibrant 30s could provide valuable context. His physical resemblance to Lennon is promising, although he may need to adapt his hair and eyeglasses for the role. The portrayal of Yoko Ono, Lennon’s wife, in the biopic is ambiguous but likely, given their marriage in 1969.
Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr
Known for Saltburn & Chernobyl
Barry Keoghan, another standout in the cast, will take on the role of Ringo Starr. Keoghan is celebrated for his performances in films such as The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Dunkirk, and the HBO series Chernobyl. His work in The Banshees of Inisherin and Saltburn has garnered critical acclaim, leading to an Oscar nomination and a BAFTA win.
At 32 years old, Keoghan has a unique on-screen presence and is known for portraying layered, eccentric characters. Ringo, now 84, has expressed enthusiasm for the project, commending Mendes for the ambitious undertaking of four concurrent films. Keoghan’s portrayal will focus not only on Starr’s musical contributions but also on his personal grounding within the band’s dynamic.
Joseph Quinn as George Harrison
Known for Stranger Things & The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Completing the cast is Joseph Quinn, who will portray the late George Harrison, who passed away in 2001. Quinn, a London native who recently celebrated his 31st birthday, gained fame as Eddie Munson in Stranger Things. His burgeoning career now includes roles in the upcoming films A Quiet Place: Day One and The Fantastic Four: First Steps.
Under Mendes’ direction, these portrayals will likely explore different eras of The Beatles’ rise to prominence throughout the 1960s. As the actors bring their unique interpretations to each character, Mendes aims to highlight their individual narratives, making this series a definitive cinematic event that honors the band’s legacy.
In summary, this ambitious Beatles film project promises to engage audiences both young and old, bringing new life to the legendary band’s story through the lens of these talented actors.
Source: Variety