Paul Mescal, known for his iconic roles in Gladiator II and Normal People, has swiftly become one of the most celebrated stars in contemporary cinema and television. Hailing from County Kildare, Ireland, where he was born in 1996, Mescal’s rise to fame began in 2017. Starting with theater performances, he made his on-screen debut in the 2019 miniseries Bump. This article explores the best movies and TV shows featuring Mescal, highlighting his remarkable ability to forge authentic chemistry with co-stars.
His breakthrough came with the acclaimed 2020 series Normal People, which propelled him into the spotlight. In less than five years, he secured pivotal roles, including a lead in Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel Gladiator II. The following selections from his evolving filmography underline the trajectory of his career and hint at future successes.
10 Bump (2019)
Paul Mescal as Matt
Bump, directed by Imogen Murphy, premiered in 2019 and is notable for being Mescal’s entry into television. The miniseries narrates the complicated relationship between sisters Liz and Ciara, particularly when Ciara agrees to be a surrogate for Liz. Although his role as Matt is limited to one episode, Mescal’s performance left a lasting impact, showcasing his potential and ultimately aiding his casting in Normal People.
While Bump may not be easily accessible online, it remains a critical piece for understanding Mescal’s early acting foundation and the roots of his talent.
9 The Deceived (2020)
Paul Mescal as Sean McKeogh
This 2020 miniseries, The Deceived, might not be as widely recognized, but it represents a significant step in Mescal’s career, highlighting his transition from supporting roles to a more prominent presence in the industry.
8 Foe (2023)
Paul Mescal as Junior
Foe, adapted from Iain Reid’s novel, marked Mescal’s introduction to psychological sci-fi — a genre where he excelled alongside co-stars Saoirse Ronan and Aaron Pierre. Despite a mixed critical response, Mescal’s dynamic chemistry with Ronan was praised, saving the intricate narrative. Although it may not be his most celebrated project, it features one of his standout performances, making it essential viewing for fans.
7 The Lost Daughter (2021)
Paul Mescal as Will
Maggie Gyllenhaal’s directorial debut, The Lost Daughter, brought together a stellar cast, including Olivia Colman and Dakota Johnson. Based on Elena Ferrante’s novel, it explores deep psychological themes and garnered multiple award nominations. Mescal’s role as Will, though not central, illuminated his ability to enhance any ensemble, especially in a standout scene with Colman that showcases his evolving on-screen presence.
6 Carmen (2022)
Paul Mescal as Aidan
In Carmen, a modern reimagining of Bizet’s opera directed by Benjamin Millepied, Mescal portrays Aidan, a border patrol officer with PTSD. This musical drama is another demonstration of his remarkable chemistry with co-stars, intertwining romance and tension as Aidan and Carmen navigate perilous circumstances while evading authorities. Mescal’s performance here further solidified his status as a versatile actor.
5 God’s Creatures (2022)
Paul Mescal as Brian O’Hara
God’s Creatures, a psychological drama, features Mescal in a nuanced role alongside Emily Watson. The film tackles challenging issues such as sexual assault and toxic masculinity, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions. Mescal’s portrayal of Brian earned him critical accolades, including nominations at the IFTA and British Independent Film Awards, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
4 All of Us Strangers (2023)
Paul Mescal as Harry
Directed by Andrew Haigh, All of Us Strangers is a romantic fantasy based on Taichi Yamada’s novel. Mescal portrays Harry, who navigates a profound connection with Adam, leading to unexpected revelations. His performance, cultivating deep emotional resonance, garnered significant acclaim, including an Irish Film & Television Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, further establishing his reputation as a leading talent in modern cinema.
3 Normal People (2020)
Paul Mescal as Connell Waldron
Normal People stands as a landmark in Mescal’s career, showcasing his portrayal of Connell Waldron opposite Daisy Edgar-Jones. The series, critically lauded and based on Sally Rooney’s novel, led to a BAFTA win and multiple Emmy nominations for Mescal. His authentic chemistry with Edgar-Jones and the emotional depth of his performance captured audiences, solidifying his status as a rising star.
2 Gladiator II (2024)
Paul Mescal as Lucius Verus
In the much-anticipated sequel Gladiator II, Mescal takes on the role of Lucius Verus, the son of Russell Crowe’s iconic character Maximus. While the film’s critical reception is yet to be determined, Mescal’s performance is already being hailed as impressive, continuing to build on his legacy in modern filmmaking.
1 Aftersun (2022)
Paul Mescal as Calum Patterson
Perhaps Mescal’s most defining performance to date is as Calum Patterson in Aftersun, a poignant coming-of-age drama directed by Charlotte Wells. His role as a young father striving to create meaningful moments for his daughter captured the hearts of viewers and reviewers alike, earning him critical acclaim including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Despite the buzz surrounding Gladiator II, many argue that Aftersun represents the pinnacle of Mescal’s artistry in film.
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