In merely a handful of years, Paul Mescal has evolved from an up-and-coming Irish performer to a prominent cinematic star with an Academy Award nomination. His deeply felt portrayals in *Normal People*, *Aftersun*, and *All of Us Strangers* have secured him a spot among the Internet Boyfriends. What sets Mescal apart from Ryan Gosling, Timothée Chalamet, Pedro Pascal, and Jonathan Bailey is his remarkable talent for embodying the “Sad Boy” archetype.

It’s not solely his capacity to weep; Mescal’s striking blue eyes express profound sorrow, his voice quivers with feeling, and his smile can appear as a desperate guise. He excels in depicting heartache and sadness, essentially transforming “sad boy” into an action. To mark the debut of *Hamnet*, yet another film highlighting Mescal’s heartrending abilities, Mashable’s team has categorized his filmography based on his “Sad Boy” portrayals, focusing on the emotional weight rather than the general melancholia of the films. This guide will prepare you for a Paul Mescal movie marathon equipped with the appropriate emotional tools.

Here are the Paul Mescal Sad Boy rankings, listed by release date.

**Normal People (2020)**

The character that introduced Mescal to audiences, Connell in *Normal People*, set a significant benchmark for his upcoming Sad Boy roles. Although affable and astute, Connell carries profound sadness and faces challenges in expressing his feelings, whether regarding his affection for Marianne or his grief over the loss of his friend Rob. Mescal’s delivery in a monologue to a therapist in episode 10 is remarkable, exposing Connell’s struggles with depression and self-doubt. While Connell experiences joyful moments, particularly with Marianne, the role merits four Sad Mescals.

**Drifting (2020)**

In the 14-minute short film *Drifting*, Mescal portrays Cian, a young man satisfied with his routine but concealing an inexplicable pain beneath a confident facade. The sorrow surfaces just before the credits roll.

**The Rolling Stones, “Scarlet” (2020)**

In this music video, Mescal initiates with a tearful apology, amplifying its effect. The video blends smiles, dancing, and introspection, forming an emotional whirlwind.

**Phoebe Bridgers, “Savior Complex” (2020)**

In the music video for “Savior Complex,” Mescal plays a con artist fleeing from a dog that loves him unconditionally. The dog is the true Sad Boy in this narrative.

**The Lost Daughter (2021)**

In *The Lost Daughter*, Mescal’s character Will is far from a Sad Boy, relishing a carefree existence on a Greek island. However, the film’s casting makes it closely related to the Sad Boy theme.

**God’s Creatures (2022)**

In *God’s Creatures*, Mescal embodies Brian, whose return to Ireland elicits tension and danger rather than sadness.

**Aftersun (2022)**

Mescal’s portrayal as Calum in *Aftersun* earned him an Academy Award nomination. The film delves into the unknowable anguish of a father through his daughter’s perspective, with Mescal delivering an impeccable performance.

**Carmen (2022)**

In *Carmen*, Mescal plays Aidan, a Marine suffering from PTSD. The film conveys forlorn expressions and substantial brooding, with Mescal even performing a melancholic original song.

**All of Us Strangers (2023)**

In *All of Us Strangers*, Mescal portrays a young man longing for love, exhibiting electrifying chemistry in his romantic scenes. His performance is both unsettling and heart-wrenching.

**Foe (2023)**

In *Foe*, Mescal plays Junior, a man confounded by the idea of being supplanted by an AI replica. The film does not fully tap into his Sad Boy potential.

**Gladiator II (2024)**

In *Gladiator II*, Mescal’s Sad Boy capabilities are utilized to depict a non-toxic masculinity thread within the tale of a gladiator challenging an oppressive regime.

**Saturday Night Live, Season 50, Episode 8 (2024)**

Mescal’s hosting stint on *SNL* highlighted his wit and charm, featuring memorable moments including a musical sketch and various comedic performances.

**The History of Sound (2024)**

In *The History of Sound*, Mescal plays Lionel, a man who speaks little yet feels intensely, grappling with solitude, grief, and lost love.

**Hamnet (2025)**

In *Hamnet*, Mescal offers a raw and human depiction of William Shakespeare’s sorrow over the death of his son. His portrayal is profoundly affecting and unforgettable.