Watching Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet at the Toronto International Film Festival proved to be an experience unlike any other for the reviewer. Having gone into the screening with high expectations, influenced by prior praise from Telluride and friends who had seen the film, they did not expect the depth of emotion that awaited them.
Historically, they do not cry easily at movies, but during the final scene of Hamnet, tears filled their eyes, and their breath caught as the emotional weight of the story hit with full force. Zhao’s direction transformed a cinematic story into a profoundly personal experience, creating a moment that resonated in ways few films can achieve.
Hamnet Explores Love, Loss, and Family Life Through Agnes and Shakespeare’s Story
Hamnet is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, which fictionalizes the life of William Shakespeare, particularly his marriage to Agnes, the death of their son Hamnet, and the creation of the iconic play Hamlet. While Shakespeare’s name draws attention, the film centers on Agnes, a character portrayed with a mix of independence, mysticism, and emotional depth.
Zhao and O’Farrell co-wrote the screenplay, carefully balancing heavy themes of grief and loss with intimate portrayals of love and family life. The story explores the couple’s relationship from their first meeting, charged with tension and longing, to the domestic moments that shape their family, culminating in the tragedy of Hamnet’s death.
Jessie Buckley as Agnes Shakespeare and Paul Mescal as William Shakespeare (Hamnet/Hera Pictures)The young actor Jacobi Jupe brings Hamnet to life with vulnerability and authenticity, creating an immediate bond with the audience. Zhao depicts Hamnet’s death and the family’s grief in a restrained and contemplative manner, avoiding melodrama while still delivering a powerful emotional punch. Each member of the family is given space to process their sorrow, particularly Agnes, whose expressions of grief carry a quiet intensity. This approach allows the audience to feel the loss as if they were part of the household, making Hamnet’s death profoundly affecting and unforgettable.
Standout Performances and Cinematic Craft Bring Depth, Emotion, and Authenticity to Hamnet
The film is elevated by standout performances from Jessie Buckley as Agnes and Paul Mescal as Shakespeare, both delivering nuanced portrayals that convey a wide range of emotion. Buckley’s raw grief and subtle facial expressions create a sense of catharsis for the viewer, while Mescal’s Shakespeare is both a devoted family man and a complex artist haunted by his past. Production design, costumes, and subtle casting choices further enhance the authenticity of the period.
Notably, Noah Jupe, Jacobi Jupe’s real-life brother, plays the actor debuting as Hamlet on stage, adding a subtle layer of connection and poignancy. Zhao’s meticulous cinematography, combining slow, deliberate camera movements with alternating wide shots and close-ups, captures intimate moments with sensitivity and care.
Hamnet stands as a testament to Zhao’s skill as a director and storyteller. The film combines lush visuals, compelling performances, and sensitive narrative pacing to create an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Zhao manages to balance historical context, family intimacy, and tragedy in a way that feels organic and moving.
The film’s premiere has already resonated deeply with audiences, and its theatrical release on November 27 is poised to make a lasting impact. With emotional depth, visual beauty, and thoughtful storytelling, Hamnet is one of the most remarkable films of the year and will continue to captivate viewers for years to come.
