Lionel (2026)

Lionel is a fictional narrative feature film set for release in North America on September 12, 2025. Directed by an unlisted filmmaker and based on the 2018 short story The Voice Recorder by Ben Shattuck, the movie explores themes of memory, art, and lost connection against the backdrop of early 20th-century America. The story follows Lionel, a man with synesthesia who perceives music as colors and emotions, played by Paul Mescal. After meeting David in a Boston bar, their bond deepens until World War I forces them apart, leading to a poignant journey of reconnection through recorded voices.

The production highlights the unique sensory experience of its protagonist, using cinematic techniques to visualize Lionel's synesthesia. Paul Mescal brings depth to the role of Lionel, showcasing his vocal talents alongside emotional range. The film pairs him with Josh O'Connor as David, creating a central dynamic that drives the narrative forward across decades. The setting transitions from intimate American bars to vast landscapes during a cross-country recording expedition, emphasizing the enduring power of human stories.

• Paul Mescal stars as Lionel, a character defined by his synesthesia and exceptional singing voice.
• Josh O'Connor plays David, Lionel's lifelong friend and fellow recorder of American folk traditions.
• The screenplay adapts Ben Shattuck’s 2018 short story, focusing on the intersection of oral history and personal relationship.
• The film features a soundtrack integral to the plot, utilizing vintage phonograph cylinders to bridge past and present.
• Released in late 2025, the film has been noted for its period-accurate aesthetic and emotional restraint.