William Shakespeare and his wife, Agnes, celebrate the birth of their son, Hamnet. However, when tragedy strikes and Hamnet dies at a young age, it inspires Shakespeare to write his timeless masterpiece "Hamlet."
Director: Chloé Zhao
Cast: Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn, Jacobi Jupe, David Wilmot, Olivia Lynes
Release Date: November 26, 2025
Genre: Biography, Drama, History, Romance
Rated PG-13 for thematic content, some strong sexuality, and partial nudity.
Runtime: 2h 5m
Review:
Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet is a historical drama that takes you on an enveloping emotional journey that’s as uplifting as it is devastating thanks in large part to a mesmerizing turn from Jessie Buckley. Zhao’s film is a study in subtly from the start as she holds images and frames the characters in a way that makes them look like they could be renaissance paintings. She uses her ability to create a naturalistic look and feel to great effect here as there are countless quiet moments shared between characters and their environment to communicate a venerable treasure trove of emotional information. Her direction gives the film a primal but utterly humanistic aura which creates an engrossing world for the characters to inhabit. The central duo of Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley are both clearly in their element with each instantly inhabiting the skin of each character and living it with an impressive level of authenticity. Mescal’s turn is a study in measured, understatement as we follow his character go from unrealized “useless” scholar to a successful playwright. Through it all, he brings a sense of undying love for his wife and children although there’s a sense of restraint especially after tragedy strikes. It’s not the beefiest role in the film but he delivers excellent work in every time he’s onscreen. Jessie Buckley though is the lifeblood of the film with a truly astonishing turn that runs through an obstacle course of emotions. Buckley always brings an intelligence and intensity to her roles which is perfectly suited to this role. She brings something otherworldly to the character that’s enchanting from the moment she appears onscreen. The opening sequences of infatuation and love ring just as true as the heartbreaking moment of loss. She’s captivating throughout with the final act serving as a showcase for her talents with character’s catharsis is laid bared onscreen. It’s the kind of the singular performance that’s sure to garner many well-earned awards accolades when the time comes as she makes Hamnet a powerful experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
A
