Though Paul McCartney has spent over six decades as one of the most iconic musicians in history, his filmography is surprisingly modest. While he’s appeared in several legendary Beatles films, his solo cinematic ventures have been rare but fascinating. Whether portraying himself or diving into eccentric cameos, McCartney always brings a charming presence to the screen.
Below are Paul McCartney’s seven best film appearances, ranked from cult favorites to cinematic landmarks.
7. Eat The Rich (1987) — Banquet Guest
In this chaotic British satire directed by Peter Richardson, McCartney plays a tuxedo-clad guest at a fancy dinner that turns anarchic. Though his role is minor—credited simply as “Banquet Guest”—he shares screen time with fellow rock icons like Lemmy (Motörhead), Shane MacGowan (The Pogues), and Bill Wyman (The Rolling Stones).
As uniformed staff begin assaulting guests, McCartney hilariously protests, “I’m with the group,” possibly a wink to his Beatles past. While the film wasn’t well received (35% on Rotten Tomatoes), McCartney’s unexpected appearance adds to its cult status.
6. Give My Regards to Broad Street (1984) — As Himself
Written by and starring McCartney, this musical drama chronicles a fictional day in his life as he scrambles to recover missing master tapes. Featuring Linda McCartney and Ringo Starr, the film mixes reality and fantasy but fell flat critically and commercially.
Despite its artistic ambition, Give My Regards to Broad Street was widely panned, with Roger Ebert calling it “about as close as you can get to a non-movie.” Still, it’s a must-see for diehard McCartney fans and spawned a surprisingly popular computer game for the Commodore 64.
5. Magical Mystery Tour (1967) — Various Roles
McCartney spearheaded this surreal Beatles TV film, taking creative reins in a chaotic journey aboard a psychedelic bus. Inspired by Ken Kesey’s Merry Pranksters, the movie was poorly received upon release, largely due to its abstract structure and BBC airing it in black and white.
However, it later gained cult acclaim for its colorful imagery and early “music video” sequences, including “I Am the Walrus.” McCartney plays multiple roles, including Major McCartney and a whimsical magician.
4. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017) — Uncle Jack
In one of his most surprising cameos, McCartney appears as Jack Sparrow’s uncle in the fifth Pirates of the Caribbean installment. Personally recruited by Johnny Depp, McCartney dons full pirate regalia and delivers a quick but memorable performance in a prison cell, even singing a few lines of the Liverpool folk tune “Maggie May.”
While the film divided fans, McCartney’s comedic timing and cheerful banter stood out.
3. Yellow Submarine (1968) — Himself (Live-Action Segment Only)
This animated Beatles classic features voice actors portraying the Fab Four—until the very end, when the real band appears in a short live-action segment. McCartney and the others engage in playful banter and lead the audience in an “All Together Now” singalong.
Despite their limited screen time, the Beatles’ presence is felt throughout. The film is now considered a visual and musical triumph, sitting at 96% on Rotten Tomatoes.
2. Help! (1965) — As Himself
The Beatles’ second major motion picture is a technicolor, globe-trotting adventure packed with absurd comedy and classic songs. McCartney is front and center, famously starring in a scene where he’s shrunk to miniature size after a shrinking solution mishap involving Ringo’s magic ring.
The film’s zany style and loose narrative didn’t quite match A Hard Day’s Night, but it was a box office hit, earning $12 million on a $1.5 million budget, and is now beloved by fans (89% on Rotten Tomatoes).
1. A Hard Day’s Night (1964) — As Himself
Paul McCartney’s most iconic film role is still his first. Directed by Richard Lester, A Hard Day’s Night is a fictionalized, fast-paced look at 36 hours in the life of the Beatles at the height of Beatlemania.
McCartney exudes effortless charisma alongside his bandmates, with scenes that blend comedy, music, and genuine personality. The film is considered a cinematic landmark and holds a near-perfect 98% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Final Thoughts: A Music Legend with a Cinematic Spark
Though Paul McCartney’s acting career is a footnote compared to his legendary musical achievements, his film roles—whether goofy, personal, or surreal—showcase his humor and creative curiosity. From Beatles madness to pirate mischief, McCartney’s on-screen moments offer fans a unique glimpse into the lighter side of a rock-and-roll genius.
