Chloé Zhao Shares Her Journey from ‘Nomadland’ to ‘Hamnet’

Chloé Zhao, acclaimed for her Oscar-winning film “Nomadland,” is poised to make waves with her upcoming project “Hamnet.” This film, based on the life of William Shakespeare, represents a significant emotional odyssey for both the cast and the director herself. As Zhao prepares for the awards season, the film has garnered attention not just for its artistic depth, but also for its profound connection to her personal journey.

From ‘Nomadland’ to ‘Hamnet’

In a recent discussion with comedian Seth Rogen, Zhao reflected on the transformative nature of her filmmaking approach. Rogen praised “Nomadland” for its unique storytelling and expressive third act, which left him with numerous questions about its creation. “It was unbelievable and incredibly bold,” he stated, highlighting the emotional layers present in her work.

A Shift in Perspective

Zhao revealed that her perspective has evolved significantly over the years. In her 30s, she focused on exploring various horizons, driven by an insatiable curiosity. “I realized I was running away from myself a lot,” she admitted. Now, in her 40s, she is learning to delve deeper into herself, aligning this introspective journey with the themes of “Hamnet.” She explained that staying still and looking inward has become a central challenge of her storytelling.

A Promising Awards Season

The excitement surrounding “Hamnet” is palpable as the film heads into the awards season. On the weekend prior, Zhao secured the award for Best Picture at the AARP Movies for Grownups Awards. This was accompanied by a Hollywood Hills screening that attracted several prominent figures, including actors Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, and the author of the original book, Maggie O’Farrell.

Golden Globe Nominations

“Hamnet” has set high expectations with six nominations at the upcoming Golden Globe Awards. The nominations include:

• Best Director
• Best Motion Picture
• Best Actress
• Best Supporting Actor
• Best Screenplay
• Best Original Score

As the world anticipates the unveiling of “Hamnet,” Zhao’s journey illustrates the transformative power of storytelling. From “Nomadland” to “Hamnet,” her work continues to resonate on many levels, blending personal growth with profound artistic expression.