First Glimpse: Mescal and Keoghan Embody Beatles Icons in Highly Anticipated Film Series
Exclusive first-look images have surfaced, offering fans an early preview of Paul Mescal and Barry Keoghan's remarkable transformations into two of music's most legendary figures. The actors are set to portray Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr respectively in the forthcoming four-part Beatles anthology, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sam Mendes.
Capturing the Essence of Liverpool's Cavern Club Era
In the newly released photographs, Paul Mescal appears as a young Paul McCartney, thoughtfully positioned against the iconic brick walls of Liverpool's legendary Cavern Club. This venue holds profound historical significance, serving as the crucible where the Beatles forged their early reputation as the club's resident band during the early 1960s. It was here that the late Brian Epstein famously witnessed their live performance and made the life-changing decision to become their manager, setting the band on their path to global superstardom.
Studio Sessions and Signature Styles
Barry Keoghan's portrayal of Ringo Starr presents the drummer fully immersed in a studio session, wearing headphones draped around his neck and sporting a distinctive black-and-white spotted shirt paired with a psychedelic tie. The look meticulously evokes Starr's late-1960s aesthetic, particularly reminiscent of the period during the recording of the Beatles' self-titled double album, affectionately known by fans as the White Album. Keoghan's hair has been styled to mimic Ringo's signature 'moptop' cut, and the actor bears a striking physical resemblance to the legendary percussionist.
Completing the Fab Four Ensemble
The anthology will feature a complete cast portraying all four Beatles members. Joseph Quinn appears to depict a bearded George Harrison towards the latter stages of the band's career, while Thomas Brodie-Sangster's portrayal of John Lennon captures the musician's 1968 style with a denim jacket and round spectacles. Supporting roles include Aimee Lou Wood as Pattie Boyd, Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney, Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono, and Mia McKenna-Bruce as Maureen Cox.
Production Details and Historical Significance
Filming is currently underway at London's iconic Abbey Road Studios, with production having commenced in November despite earlier logistical challenges. Westminster Council initially raised concerns about filming at the famous zebra crossing, but has since confirmed that production will proceed with temporary road closures. Director Sam Mendes has expressed particular enthusiasm about recreating the Beatles' seminal 1969 album cover at this historic location.
This project marks a historic moment in entertainment, representing the first time that Apple Corps Ltd, along with Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison, have granted comprehensive life story and music rights for a scripted film production.
Actors' Perspectives and Preparations
Barry Keoghan has openly discussed the profound experience of meeting his real-life counterpart, revealing that he initially struggled to maintain eye contact with Ringo Starr during their first encounter due to overwhelming nerves. "I met him at his house, and he played the drums for me," Keoghan recounted during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live. "When I was talking to him, I couldn't look at him. I was nervous, like right now. But he's like, 'You can look at me.'" Despite this initial anxiety, Keoghan described Starr as "absolutely lovely" and emphasized his commitment to "humanise him and bring feelings to it and not just sort of imitate."
Ringo Starr himself has commented on Keoghan taking on the role, telling Entertainment Tonight: "I believe he's somewhere taking drum lessons, and I hope not too many."
Release Strategy and Industry Impact
Sony Pictures confirmed the complete cast last year following months of industry speculation, with all four films scheduled for simultaneous release in April 2028. At CinemaCon in Las Vegas last April, director Sam Mendes described the project as creating "the first binge-able theatrical experience," suggesting an innovative approach to cinematic presentation. The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) has generated additional excitement by hiding exclusive promotional postcards around their campus, encouraging students to discover these collectible items.
This ambitious four-part anthology represents one of the most significant music biopic projects in recent cinematic history, promising to deliver an unprecedented, comprehensive exploration of the Beatles' extraordinary journey from Liverpool's club scene to becoming the world's most influential musical phenomenon.
