Every Paul Mescal Movie Ranked from Worst to Best

Introduction

Paul Mescal has quickly risen to fame as a versatile and talented actor, known for his compelling performances in a range of films. From emotional dramas to sci-fi thrillers, Mescal has demonstrated his ability to tackle complex characters and deliver captivating performances. With only six feature films under his belt, Mescal has already made a significant impact in the film industry, earning critical acclaim and nominations for his work.

Paul Mescal leaning on Saoirse Ronan in Foe

In this article, we will explore and rank every Paul Mescal movie, from his least successful to his most outstanding performance. Each film showcases Mescal's commitment to taking on diverse and challenging roles, solidifying his position as a rising star in the world of cinema.

carmen melissa barrera paul mescal in Carmen

Foe (2023)

Foe, starring Paul Mescal and Saoirse Ronan, was a sci-fi thriller set in a dystopian American future. Mescal's portrayal of Junior, a character whose life is turned upside down by a stranger's arrival, showcased his ability to deliver a committed and layered performance. Despite Mescal's dedication to the role, Foe fell short of connecting with audiences, with stilted dialogue and a plot that failed to fully engage.

Paul Mescal and Saoirse Ronan Sharing an Intimate Moment in Foe

The film, which should have been a major cinematic event, unfortunately missed the mark, leaving much potential untapped. However, Mescal's performance, alongside his co-star Ronan, hinted at the promise of their collaboration in future projects, hopefully in a more compelling and well-received film.

Aaron Pierre in Foe

Carmen (2022)

In Carmen, Paul Mescal took on the role of Aidan in a musical retelling of the Georges Bizet opera. The film, directed by French dancer Benjamin Millepied, showcased Mescal's willingness to explore roles with serious artistic integrity, despite the film's unconventional approach. Mescal's performance as Aidan, a character caught in a romantic and intense narrative, highlighted his musical ability and emotional depth.

While Carmen may not have appealed to a mainstream audience, it signaled Mescal's commitment to unpredictable roles and artistic risks, setting the stage for his future endeavors in cinema.

The Lost Daughter (2021)

In Maggie Gyllenhaal's directional debut, The Lost Daughter, Paul Mescal played a supporting role as Will, a young man entangled in the complex narrative of the film. Mescal's portrayal demonstrated his effectiveness in a supporting role, complementing the lead performance by Olivia Coleman. The film, a probing and psychological character study, delved into themes of abandonment, escapism, and parenthood, providing Mescal with the opportunity to deliver a mature and memorable performance.

Paul Mescal as Will opposite Olivia Coleman in The Lost Daughter Netflix

While Mescal's part may have been minor, his contribution to The Lost Daughter added a layer of intensity and insightfulness, solidifying his presence in a film that captivated audiences with its suspense and emotional depth.

God's Creatures (2022)

As Brian O'Hara in God's Creatures, Paul Mescal delved into the darker side of a character's psychology, portraying a role that grew progressively unlikable and sinister throughout the film. The intense and unsettling gothic tale, set in a remote Irish seaside village, provided Mescal with the opportunity to showcase his skill at portraying a distasteful and unethical character, challenging the limits of a mother's love and unraveling a story of betrayal and loss.

Emily Watson and Paul Mescal in God's Creatures

Mescal's performance, alongside Emily Watson's strong lead, contributed to the film's harrowing narrative, highlighting his ability to tap into the complexities of human behavior and emotions.

All of Us Strangers (2023)

All of Us Strangers presented Paul Mescal in the role of Harry, a mysterious neighbor in a thoughtful and moving LGBTQ+ fantasy. The film, characterized by themes of grief, loneliness, and love, explored a romance between Harry and the lead character, played by Andrew Scott. Mescal's performance showcased his ability to convey complex emotional pain and experience, contributing to a sophisticated representation of same-sex romance and acceptance.

Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal in All of Us Strangers

Alongside Scott, Mescal's onscreen chemistry added depth to the narrative, portraying a story of acceptance and identity that resonated with audiences, solidifying his versatility in portraying diverse and compelling characters.

Aftersun (2022)

Aftersun, directed by Charlotte Wells, earned Paul Mescal an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal of Calum Paterson. The haunting and melancholy coming-of-age story explored themes of depression, loss, and memory, showcasing Mescal's ability to portray suppressed emotional pain and subtle complexities with masterful subtlety.

Paul Mescal as Calum and Frankie Corio as Sophie dancing and hugging in Aftersun.

Mescal's performance in Aftersun, alongside the powerful narrative and emotional heft of the film, solidified his position as an exceptional actor, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. Aftersun stands as Mescal's greatest performance to date, setting a high standard for his future work in the film industry.