Ridley Scott's plans to collaborate with Paul Mescal again may be delayed due to the actor's involvement with upcoming Beatles projects. In a recent discussion with Christopher Nolan following a screening of Scott's latest film, 'Gladiator II', at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles, Scott shared that his next endeavor would be a thriller titled 'The Dog Stars'. When Nolan inquired if Mescal would star in the film, Scott stated this was indeed the case but quickly pointed out that Mescal's schedule might clash with their potential reunion. He explained that Mescal is expected to star in Sony Pictures' Beatles films directed by Sam Mendes. “Yes,” Scott confirmed about Mescal’s role in 'The Dog Stars', adding, “Maybe. Paul is actually stacked up, doing the Beatles next. So I may have to let him go.”
While the studio has yet to confirm any casting decisions, Mescal has been rumored as a leading candidate to portray Paul McCartney in Mendes’ planned four biopics about the iconic band. Each film will focus on a different member: McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight last month, Mescal expressed his excitement about the possibility, saying “It would be an incredible story to be attached to.” However, when pressed for confirmation about his role as McCartney, he refrained from giving any details.
In the same interview, Ringo Starr mentioned that Barry Keoghan would portray him and noted that Keoghan has been taking drum lessons. Speculation also surrounds Joseph Quinn as a potential cast member. At the time of Starr's remarks, no official deals had been finalized.
Scott's comments came as Sony Pictures, with the Beatles' label Apple Corps’ approval, gears up for a planned 2027 release for these films. Tom Rothman, Sony Pictures chief, highlighted the need for a bold release strategy to match the ambitious nature of the project. Mescal, who plays Lucius in 'Gladiator II', previously gained recognition for his role in 'Normal People' and received an Oscar nomination for 'Aftersun'.
During the same conversation about 'Gladiator II', Nolan noted Denzel Washington appeared to embrace improvisation in his role as slave Macrinus, to which Scott explained his approach to filmmaking, inspired by live theater. He elaborated that every scene is like a play, allowing for naturalism and spontaneity within the production.
