Jacoby Jupe as Hamnet is another standout performance to be able to convey and emote thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a role such as Hamnet is not easy, and what Jupe brought to this role is nothing short of exceptional. The support of cast in both Emily Watson and Joe Alwyn was heavily effective to the film’s narrative, especially in the beginning. 

Chloe Zhao’s direction in Hamnet was successful. This film was a passion project for her, and she handled it with the grace and style it required. Zhao has always been great with tender moments, and this continues to add to that facet with even greater performances from both Buckley and Mescal. The story that she is trying to tell is clear and direct, and nothing is left in the end except love and tears. Zhao put so much heart and effort into this film that it could be said that this is her magnum opus. 

Scenes of Sorrow

Hamnet is shot well; the film takes place outside a lot, so it all feels natural. Agnes is fond of nature, and at times, it feels as though she may actually be Mother Nature. The film is well-lit, especially in moments when the character’s facial expressions are meant to convey thoughts with meaning. Even in the darkest moments, the lighting is resonant in a way that gives contrast to the depths of the pain that Agnes and William endure. Of all things, the score remains one of the most effective parts of the film. The score delves into the dialogue, whether the moment is light and airy or dark and despairing. 

In totality, the film comes all the way together towards the end as William Shakespeare puts on Hamlet. The moments leading up to the play set the scene that something momentous is on the horizon, and that lives will be changed forever. As the play begins, the cinematography and the lighting take center stage, as it is important to highlight most of Agnes’s movement as she is unaware of what lies behind the play’s motives. It is in these moments where the lighting and the score are speaking more so than the characters, as they are coming to terms with their grief while being present in the moment. The few final minutes of the film are nothing but a heavy score and facial expressions. This is important because it gives the audience a chance to draw a conclusion as to what Agnes and William Shakespeare are bearing witness to during the play, viewing what is known as one of the greatest tragedies in Hamlet.

A Joyous Ending

In conclusion, Hamnet is a well-crafted adaptation of the bestselling novel, Hamnet, offering an atmospheric exploration of grief. The film works well as a cathartic tear-jerker that offers hope amongst sadness in the darkest moments. The performances are a highlight of the film, especially those of Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, and Jacobi Jupe. Chole Zhao’s direction continues to evolve, and Hamnet offers her the chance to test the audience’s theatrical knowledge while personifying what a tragedy is through the film’s narrative. 

Watch Hamnet in select theaters, November 27!