“How Four Crucial Days Rescued ‘Hamnet’: This Year’s Most Emotional Film”
The filming of “Hamnet,” directed by Chloé Zhao, encountered a pivotal challenge just four days before completion. The cast had been immersed in the tense climactic scenes at the Globe Theatre. However, the absence of a compelling ending left Zhao and actress Jessie Buckley feeling lost.
The Search for an Emotional Climax
As they attempted to portray the relationship between William Shakespeare, played by Paul Mescal, and his wife, Agnes, the intended emotional resonance fell flat. In a key moment, Agnes and her brother witness the tragic demise of Hamlet. This conclusion was meant to evoke profound catharsis linked to the recent loss of their son, Hamnet.
Zhao, who typically avoids scripting endings, struggled with this film’s conclusion. After reflecting on her personal experiences, she realized that love doesn’t vanish; it transforms. A breakthrough moment came when Buckley shared the song “This Bitter Earth,” inspiring Zhao to envision a deeper connection between the characters and the audience.
Creative Decisions in the Final Days
During the final days of shooting, Zhao conceptualized an ending where Agnes reaches out to Hamlet, symbolizing the release of her grief. This communal experience aimed to break the fourth wall and enhance audience participation. Buckley remarked on the unexpected communal surrender that occurred during filming.
- Director: Chloé Zhao
- Main Cast: Paul Mescal, Jessie Buckley, Joe Alwyn
- Key Theme: Emotional release and communal catharsis
- Location: Elstree Studios, England
Reviving the Globe Theatre
The Globe Theatre set, designed by Fiona Crombie, took 14 weeks to build. Constructed with authentic timber, the set was intentionally smaller than the original Globe to create intimacy. It featured real backstage elements, including prop tables and makeup stations, allowing actors to immerse themselves in the environment.
Crombie emphasized that every detail honored the theatrical heritage, ensuring authenticity in both the architecture and the storytelling. Zhao’s vision for the set was to evoke the feeling of being inside a tree, aligning with the film’s spiritual theme.
Building Connections Through Performance
Throughout the production, actors rehearsed parts of “Hamlet,” allowing them to form a strong sense of connection with the material. Mescal expressed the sacred nature of performing Shakespeare in such a historically significant space. Filming included 300 extras, enhancing the atmosphere of communal engagement.
A daily meditation led by dream coach Kim Gillingham helped actors cultivate deeper emotional connections to their performances. Alwyn highlighted how this practice transformed the filming experience into a collective journey of catharsis.
Concluding Reflections
The film’s emotional climax occurs when Agnes reaches for Hamlet, signifying her acceptance of loss. Buckley described this moment as a significant release of grief. Mescal sees this ending as an ongoing narrative of hope, hinting at the resilience of love despite devastating loss.
Overall, “Hamnet” aims to encapsulate a timeless exploration of grief, love, and transformation, making it a potential highlight in this year’s film landscape.
