Based on the book of the same title, Hamnet, directed by Chloé Zhao, co-written by Zhao and Maggie O’Farrell, follows the story of Agnes, the daughter of a forest witch, and William Shakespeare, a scholar and playwright, as they fall in love and start a family.
Exploring Hamnet’s emotional journey
As the audience watches their family grow, Agnes, William, and their children are forced to reconcile with a devastating loss. The creation of Hamlet becomes a silent bridge between William and Agnes, an artistic response to a loss neither can fully articulate. This moving period drama takes the audience on an emotionally devastating journey.
The original novel is a deeply moving tale of love and loss. Exploring themes of grief, suffering, connection, and the inherent healing power of artistic expression.
Actors
The most compelling aspect of this film is Jessica Buckley’s performance as Agnes. Her performance is truly a marvel to watch, bringing a sense of realism to the unforgettable character. Her work alone is enough to draw audiences. The intensity she brings to the character is indescribable and perhaps one of the strongest aspects of this film. Her counterpart, Paul Mescal, plays William Shakespeare as a sensitive and suffocated artist struggling to make his mark in his hometown. It’s an archetype of Mescal’s, but he is always excellent in this exact kind of role. Overall, the cast delivers; everyone gives a deeply moving performance.
Friends of Bylines Network
There has never been a greater need for grassroots journalism that investigates the stories that really matter, holds power to account and champions the voices of everyday citizens. We are proudly powered by volunteers but what we do isn’t free.
STAND WITH US for independent, citizen-led journalism that makes democracy stronger, and you will even get some exclusive benefits.
Hamnet’s Visual design and direction
Zhao’s direction finetunes this film, allowing the elements to flow together as one. From cinematography to the pacing and production design, everything about this movie is gorgeous and breathtaking. Most elements are stripped back, allowing the storytelling to truly shine. Audiences will leave the cinema feeling affirmed in life.
The film’s message
The film’s message is that artmaking can be a transformative but also deeply healing practice that binds people together. Where the film could end on a heavy, dark note, it lends itself to a much more hopeful ending.
Hamnet is by no means an easy watch. The unflinching editing ensures that every emotion lands with quiet force.
