Chloé Zhao Directs ‘Hamnet’ Starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal

The cinematic adaptation of *Hamnet*, directed by Chloé Zhao, presents a deeply emotional narrative centered on the life of Shakespeare’s wife, Agnes, and the profound grief following the death of their son, Hamnet. The screenplay is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel, releasing in bookstores in 2020.

Chloé Zhao’s Vision for *Hamnet*

Chloé Zhao, known for her Oscar-winning work, encountered a personal crisis while in New York. Seeking solace, she took a train back to Los Angeles where she remarkably penned a 90-page screenplay for *Hamnet*. This creative outpouring became the foundation for the film.

Producer’s Commitment

Producer Liza Marshall, captivated by O’Farrell’s portrayal of Agnes, aimed to tell Shakespeare’s story from a female perspective. Marshall sought Zhao for the project, knowing of her interest in narratives involving strong female characters. O’Farrell, initially hesitant, embraced co-writing the script with Zhao after their first meeting.

Starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal

Jessie Buckley was chosen for the role of Agnes after a fateful meeting at the 2022 Telluride Film Festival. Buckley was particularly drawn to the emotional depth of the character and the narrative style that Zhao brings to her projects. Paul Mescal, recognized for his role in *Normal People*, was cast as William Shakespeare and emphasized the need for his character to express emotional depth rather than merely intellectualism.

Supporting Cast and Production Insights

• Emily Watson: Portrays Shakespeare’s mother.
• Joe Alwyn: Plays Agnes’ brother and is a friend of Zhao.
• Jacobi Jupe: Plays Hamnet, the title character.
• Setting: Filming took place across various locations in the UK, including Wales, to create an authentic Tudor atmosphere.

The production design, led by Fiona Crombie, focused on authentic Tudor architecture, building sets that reflected the historical context while also resonating emotionally with the characters. The film’s adaptation aims to capture the internal struggles of Agnes as she grapples with grief.

Filming Challenges and Creative Decisions

The complexities of depicting grief led Zhao to embrace an unorthodox shooting style. Instead of rigidly adhering to the script, she encouraged actors to explore their emotions during filming. This approach fostered a unique connection among the cast, allowing them to deliver authentic performances.

The Climactic Ending

As production neared completion, Zhao felt a lack of resolution in the script. A pivotal moment of clarity came when Buckley suggested a new approach to the film’s conclusion. This collaboration culminated in a highly emotional finale, reflecting the themes of community and shared grief.

A Personal Journey

Throughout the production, Buckley faced her own struggles with motherhood, adding a layer of personal significance to her portrayal of Agnes. This intertwining of personal experiences and artistic expression shaped the final work, making *Hamnet* not just a film about loss, but also about resilience and connection.

*Hamnet*, through its powerful narrative and compelling performances from Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, promises to be a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring impact of grief, directed by the talented Chloé Zhao.