‘Hamnet’ is a poignant exploration of love and loss, directed by Chloe Zhao, that delves into the life of William Shakespeare and the impact of tragedy on art.
‘Hamnet’ Review: A Stunning Emotional Journey
The 52nd Telluride Film Festival has barely begun, yet a compelling theme emerges: art as a transformative experience. In Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere, depression drives the superstar musician to delve deep into his writing and recording, seeking his true self. Similarly, in Jay Kelly, George Clooney portrays a mega movie star who detours from his career to rediscover what he has missed in his personal life. Now, in Hamnet, Chloe Zhao explores the intersection of love and death through the lens of William Shakespeare’s greatest play.
The Power of Human Experience
This powerful narrative showcases how human experiences can evolve into art and storytelling, with Hamnet serving as perhaps the most vivid example. Based on Maggie O’Farrell’s award-winning novel, it presents a fictional yet research-rich idea: the death of Shakespeare’s 11-year-old son, Hamlet, directly influenced the key themes in his play Hamlet. While solid evidence is scarce, the timing suggests that the writing and production of the play coincided with this tragic moment in Shakespeare’s life, allowing him to channel his grief into his work.
A Tale of Love, Family, and Loss
Zhao’s film unfolds as a love story, then evolves into a family saga filled with deep pain and conflict, ultimately leading to relief and hope. It follows Agnes (Jessie Buckley), a free-spirited nature lover, who feels like an outcast until she meets Will Shakespeare (Paul Mescal). Their passionate, somewhat forbidden affair faces opposition from his stern parents, John (David Wilmot) and the devout Mary (Emily Watson). They marry and have three children: Susannah (Bohdi Rae Breathnatch), Judith (Olivia Lynes), and Hamnet (Jacobi Jupe). As Will pursues his dreams in London, Agnes is left to care for the children. The tension escalates when the plague strikes, gravely affecting Judith, leading to a tragic sacrifice by her loving brother.
The Aftermath of Tragedy
The family is devastated by the loss of Hamnet, leaving Will distraught upon his return. Agnes blames him for his absence during their time of need, highlighting the rift in their marriage. Will immerses himself in his work, creating a new play he initially intended as a comedy, which ultimately becomes “The Tragedy of Hamlet.” The death of his son profoundly influences this dark narrative, which is steeped in themes of loss and a haunting presence that serves as its spiritual core. Can this tragedy help Will and Agnes reconnect?
Emotional Impact and Performances
Zhao, who co-wrote the screenplay with O’Farrell, delivers an emotionally devastating experience as the film culminates in the opening performance of the play. Agnes, still grieving, stands at the forefront, expecting something entirely different from what Will has created. This moment becomes the film’s highlight, leaving audiences shaken and in tears.
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Buckley shines as the fiercely protective mother, embodying a character whose life intertwines with nature and her husband. Mescal delivers a powerful performance as Shakespeare, showcasing a side of the Bard previously unseen. Jupe’s charming portrayal of Hamnet makes his tragic death all the more poignant. The film’s technical aspects are equally exceptional, featuring stunning cinematography by Lukasz Zal and a haunting score by Max Richter.
A Unique Cinematic Experience
Following her Oscar win for Nomadland, Zhao’s Hamnet stands out as a testament to how art is shaped by life, solidifying her status as one of today’s premier filmmakers. With remarkable performances from Buckley and Mescal, Hamnet is a cinematic experience that resonates deeply.
Title: Hamnet
Festival: Telluride Film Festival
Distributor: Focus Features
Release Date: November 27, 2025
Director: Chloe Zhao
Screenplay: Chloe Zhao and Maggie O’Farrell
Cast: Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn, David Wilmot, Bohdi Rae Breathnatch, Olivia Lynes, Jacobi Jupe, Noah Jupe
Running Time: 2 hours and 5 minutes
