“Hamnet” Trailer

Focus Features has released the trailer for “Hamnet,” a film directed by Chloé Zhao and featuring Jesse Buckley and Paul Mescal.

It’s often the unexpected movies that leave a lasting impression, the ones you don’t see coming but somehow resonate long after the credits roll. “Hamnet” is certainly one of those films.

Based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, “Hamnet” fictionalizes the heartbreaking story of William Shakespeare’s son, who died young. The tale unfolds through the eyes of Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway, referred to as Agnes in the movie.

Jessie Buckley portrays Agnes, a spirited farm girl who falls in love with Will (Paul Mescal), an aspiring playwright. Faced with an unplanned pregnancy, they marry and become parents to three children: Susanna and twins Hamnet and Judith.

As Agnes manages life in the countryside, Will is often away in London, chasing his dreams. Tragedy strikes when Hamnet, just 11 years old, succumbs to the plague while his father is away, creating tension in their already fragile marriage.

Buckley may not yet be a household name, but her talent reflects in every role she’s taken, from “Wild Rose” to “Woman Talking.” Her portrayal of Agnes is layered, potentially setting her up for Oscar recognition as she takes viewers from joy to despair.

Mescal, rising in fame following his role in “Gladiator II,” captures the struggle of a father facing the loss of his son while simultaneously working on “Hamlet,” collaborating with some of today’s best actors.

While Buckley and Mescal show promise, young Jacobi Jupe, who plays Hamnet, delivers a poignant performance that showcases both vulnerability and depth, hinting at a bright future ahead.

If “Hamnet” is akin to an orchestra, then Chloé Zhao is its master conductor, orchestrating vivid performances, a sharp script, and lush cinematography by Lukasz Zall. Having won an Oscar for “Nomadland,” Zhao raises the bar yet again with this project, and it’s no surprise that industry icons like Steven Spielberg and Sam Mendes are on board as producers.

Verdict:

“Hamnet” is a remarkably potent historical drama, rich with emotional storytelling, artistic cinematography, and outstanding performances. Watching a film like this reminds us of our capacity to feel, even amid pain—and that’s what draws us to the cinema.

★★★★ — Watch Now

“Hamnet” is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, some strong sexual content, and partial nudity. The running time is 2 hours and 5 minutes, and it’s currently showing in theaters.