Review: ‘Hamnet’ inspires more than a famous play

A scene from ‘Hamnet’ courtesy of Focus Features

Hamnet follows the ups and downs of the Bard’s marriage that resulted in one of his most famous plays.

William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) refuses to give up his literary aspirations, so he begrudgingly teaches Latin to a neighbour’s children. It’s during this tiresome task that he meets and falls in love with Agnes (Jessie Buckley). Their children arrive soon after they’re wed, including twins, Hamnet (Jacobi Jupe) and Judith (Olivia Lynes). In spite of their growing family, Agnes encourages Will to go to London and sell his plays. But the separation weighs heavily on them and when tragedy strikes while he’s away, the damage appears irreparable.

The beginning of the film suggests this could be Shakespeare’s origin story. But when Will exits the stage for London, viewers remain behind with Agnes. She’s a formidable woman who won’t submit to anyone. It’s this strength and devotion to her loved ones that eventually wins over her mother-in-law (Emily Watson).

The grief of losing one of their children is crushing. Both parents are consumed by their heartache, but they choose to deal with it differently. Will buries himself in his work and Agnes retreats from the world. Buckley sincerely draws viewers into her character’s overwhelming sorrow. Agnes is convinced their failure to protect the child resulted in their death and she cannot forgive Will or herself.

This period picture feels like Academy Award-winning director Chloé Zhao is returning to her roots — though not all her earlier tactics work. The filmmaker likes to linger in the moment, but those long, quiet shots don’t enhance this film. Instead, it extends the movie to a degree that tests audience’s dedication to the story.

Luckily, audiences can’t take their eyes off Buckley, who impresses with her emotional acuity.

Director: Chloé Zhao
Starring: Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal and Joe Alwyn