Paul Mescal Shares His All-Time Favorite Movies
Paul Mescal, known for his standout performances on screen, recently shared his all-time favorite films in a 2022 conversation with Letterboxd.
The actor’s picks reveal a clear preference for emotionally powerful dramas, though he also includes one lighter choice to balance the selection.
Mescal highlighted Martin Scorsese’s 1982 film The King of Comedy, starring Robert De Niro, as a standout.
He described it as a way to “lighten” his list, but it’s clear that the film’s sharp character study and dark humor still resonate with him. The King of Comedy is widely praised by critics for its bold satire on fame and obsession, and De Niro’s performance is often cited as one of his finest.
Another of Mescal’s favorites is Derek Cianfrance’s 2010 romance Blue Valentine, starring Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams. He admitted to revisiting the film repeatedly to “punish his feelings,” pointing to the raw, painful emotional core of the story.
The film was widely acclaimed for its authentic portrayal of a failing relationship, with critics praising the performances of Gosling and Williams and Cianfrance’s unflinching direction.
Mescal also singled out Kenneth Lonergan’s 2016 drama Manchester by the Sea, another film with a strong emotional punch. He said the movie “devastates me,” yet he keeps returning for the powerful performances and the story’s exploration of loss, regret, and enduring love.
The film received critical acclaim, earning Academy Awards for Best Actor for Casey Affleck and Best Original Screenplay, and was praised for its honest depiction of grief and human connection.
For his personal favorite, Mescal chose James Ivory’s 1993 period drama The Remains of the Day. The film stars Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson, and Christopher Reeve, and Mescal spoke fondly of Hopkins, calling him “one of my favourite actors.”
He praised the film for its classical storytelling and meticulous craftsmanship. Critics lauded the movie for its elegant direction, rich performances, and the subtle emotional depth of its narrative, making it a staple of British cinema.
Mescal’s selections demonstrate his appreciation for films that explore human emotion in profound ways. From the dark comedy of The King of Comedy to the heartbreaking realism of Blue Valentine and Manchester by the Sea, and the refined elegance of The Remains of the Day, his choices highlight both his taste and the influence these films have had on his understanding of storytelling and performance.
- Blue Valentine (Derek Cianfrance, 2010)
- The King of Comedy (Martin Scorsese, 1982)
- Manchester by the Sea (Kenneth Lonergan, 2016)
- The Remains of the Day (James Ivory, 1993)
Mescal’s picks also reflect the broader critical recognition of these films. Blue Valentine and Manchester by the Sea are widely regarded as modern classics of emotional storytelling, while The Remains of the Day continues to be celebrated for its timeless narrative and the artistry of its cast.
The King of Comedy, though initially controversial, has gained cult status for its sharp critique of fame and society.
It’s clear that Mescal is drawn to stories with depth and complexity, favoring performances and narratives that linger long after the credits roll. What do you think of Paul Mescal’s choices? Do you agree with his favorites, or would your list look different? Share your thoughts in the comments.
