Hamnet
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5 stars)
William Shakespeare's legend is almost as enthralling as his extensive work as one of the world's most prolific and famous playwrights. Novelist Maggie O'Farrell taps into the family's mythology with her 2020 book that addresses the grief experienced after the tragic death of their 11-year-old son Hamnet (Jacobi Jupe). Her fictional account unpacks the world the family lived in as Shakespeare developed his career in London during this era.
Academy Award-winning writer/director Chloé Zhao (Nomadland) explores the beautiful and heartbreaking relationship between William (Paul Mescal) and Agnes (Jessie Buckley) in Shakespeare's work. Despite opposition from their families, the pair developed a bond that endured through the trials and tribulations of that era. As their three children were born, Agnes worked to keep the family together as William worked in London at the Globe Theatre. The love shared by the couple and their children buoyed them through life until Hamnet died from plague. An event that drove a wedge through each familial relationship while inspiring William to write one of the most celebrated stage productions of all time. This homage to his son would prove to be a salve for the grief experienced by all of the family and allows the Shakespeares' son to live on throughout history.
Jessie Buckley proves that she is one of the best actresses of this generation with a multi-layered, emotionally charged performance that sets a standard for all who come after her. Paul Mescal continues to grow from strength to strength as he humbly embodies the famed bard, but his work pales in comparison to that of his co-star. Yet, as the relationship unfolds with minimal dialogue and physical intensity, Chloé Zhao proves why she is a celebrated director, drawing outstanding acting from every cast member. Despite the minimalist setting that is best when it ventures into the surrounding wilderness, the attention remains on the central cast. Emily Watson proves her value as support, and each child provides the poignant components to showcase why Maggie O'Farrell's story is brought to cinematic life.
Hamnet is affecting, visceral, and long-lasting. The closing scene should be studied as a lesson in filmmaking that brings together the brilliant writing, acting and emotion. Fictional or real, this tale of a mother's grief will wrap around your soul and tap into feelings that have lain dormant for years that need to be released from the locked rooms of the heart.
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REEL DIALOGUE: We all mourn differently
"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” - 1 Corinthians 15:55
You may have thought these words were penned by William Shakespeare, but it might surprise you to know that they can be found in the Bible.
Death can be a sombre topic and should be handled respectfully. Still, it can also provide discussions of hope and assurance. Especially when Jesus is incorporated into the discussion, because through his story, he can prove that death does not have to be something to fear.
Through Jesus's work, His followers can be assured of where they will spend eternity, and this can provide hope for their future. He is the conqueror of death and gives an answer to the inevitable question, 'What happens after we die?' It is a better answer than any tree monster, other religion, or philosophy can offer.
