Prepare to be moved by a story that delves into the depths of human emotion, because Hamnet, the Oscar-buzzed film starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, is here to captivate your heart. But here's where it gets controversial—while the film explores the tragic origins of Shakespeare's Hamlet, it boldly centers on Agnes, the playwright's wife, as a fully realized woman, not just a supporting character in his life. And this is the part most people miss: Agnes isn’t merely a historical footnote; she’s the beating heart of this narrative, embodying the complexities of womanhood, motherhood, and love.
Jessie Buckley, in an interview with BBC News, shared her profound connection to the character: 'She was the full story of what I understand a woman to be... a person with her own language, standing beside a literary giant like Shakespeare.' Buckley’s portrayal of Agnes is more than just acting—it’s a privilege, a journey into the soul of a woman whose story has long been overshadowed by history. Adapted from Maggie O'Farrell’s 2020 bestselling novel, Hamnet brings to life the intimate struggles and triumphs of a family grappling with unimaginable loss.
Buckley’s rise to stardom began in 2008 on the BBC One talent show I'd Do Anything, where she placed second in the search for Nancy in a West End adaptation of Oliver Twist. Since then, she’s garnered critical acclaim, earning BAFTA and Oscar nominations for her roles in Wild Rose and The Lost Daughter, respectively. Yet, Hamnet pushed her into uncharted emotional territory. 'I was conscious and scared,' she admitted, reflecting on the challenge of portraying grief as a woman who hasn’t experienced motherhood or the loss of a child. 'But I know love, I know great love,' she added, emphasizing her commitment to capturing the humanity of Agnes’ story.
Directed by Chloé Zhao, fresh off her Oscar win for Nomadland, Hamnet is a collaboration between Zhao and O'Farrell, featuring a stellar cast including Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn, and Jacobi Jupe. Critics have praised the film, with the Telegraph's Robbie Collin calling it 'perfectly executed' in a five-star review. Kevin Maher of the Times hailed Buckley’s performance as 'timeless,' while The Wrap's Carla Renata described her as 'nothing short of magical.'
But not everyone is convinced. Time's Stephanie Zacharek criticized Zhao’s direction, arguing the emotional cues were too heavy-handed. And Amy Nicholson of the LA Times questioned the film’s appeal, suggesting Shakespeare himself wouldn’t be impressed by this 'domestic drama' lacking his signature wit and wordplay. Is this a fair critique, or does Hamnet succeed in carving its own niche?
The film’s emotional core lies in the bond between Agnes and her son, Hamnet, but its physical heart beats at the Globe Theatre, where the first performance of Hamlet unfolds. Filming this pivotal scene was Buckley’s greatest challenge. 'I felt terrified, completely overwhelmed,' she recalled. Yet, it was in her vulnerability that she found Agnes’ truth: 'To be lost is incredibly human, and that’s Agnes’ story.'
Buckley’s performance has sparked Oscar predictions, placing her among contenders like Chase Infiniti, Renate Reinsve, and Emma Stone. But does the buzz excite or pressure her? 'I’m just going to get into the river,' she laughed, focusing on celebrating the story and the bond forged with her cast and crew. 'I’m so proud of this film,' she reflected. 'The greatest gift has been feeling the audience’s response.'
As Hamnet hits UK cinemas on January 9th, it invites us to ponder: Can a story rooted in personal tragedy transcend its historical context to speak to universal truths? Share your thoughts—do you think Hamnet deserves the Oscar buzz, or is it missing the mark? Let’s debate!
