Chloé Zhao, the acclaimed director known for her Oscar-winning film Nomadland, is stepping back into the spotlight with her adaptation of Hamnet, based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel. The film recently premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), receiving enthusiastic feedback.
Hamnet tells a poignant tale of love and loss, focusing on William Shakespeare (played by Paul Mescal) and his wife, Agnes (portrayed by Jessie Buckley), as they cope with the heartbreaking death of their son, Hamnet. This tragedy serves as the inspiration for Shakespeare’s famous play, Hamlet, which Zhao refers to as “one of the greatest pieces of literature.”
Zhao shares that she initially hesitated to take on the project. She felt she lacked the life experience necessary for such a deep story. However, meeting Mescal changed her perspective. Zhao felt a connection with him and believed he could embody young Shakespeare’s essence. The chemistry test with Buckley confirmed their dynamic, sparking creativity and excitement.
Reflecting on her four-year hiatus from filmmaking, Zhao explains that she needed time to decompress after the intensity of Nomadland and Eternals. This break allowed her to reassess her storytelling. “Stories choose me,” she muses, suggesting that Hamnet came to her at the right moment, just when she was ready to explore its depths.
Zhao addresses the themes of the film by emphasizing how love and grief manifest differently in people. She describes Shakespeare and Agnes as representative of two contrasting energies: one connected to nature and sensitivity, and the other to civilization and emotional restraint. This dynamic plays into their struggle to communicate and understand each other’s grief after losing their child.
In her words, “Sometimes love cannot survive that difference.” The film explores how their shared tragedy ultimately helps them find common ground, leading to a deeper connection through Shakespeare’s creative expression.
As for the casting process, Zhao highlights Mescal and Buckley’s innate abilities to capture their characters. Both actors bring distinct qualities that resonate with the themes of the film, making them ideal choices.
Zhao’s experience working alongside industry giants like Steven Spielberg and Sam Mendes further enriched the project. The trust and respect within the team allowed her to maintain her creative vision while benefiting from their invaluable insights.
Looking ahead, Zhao expresses a mix of excitement and nerves about releasing Hamnet to the world. “It’s like raising a child,” she says, pointing out the imperfections that come with creative endeavors. The growth she underwent during her break helped her embrace these imperfections.
Zhao’s enthusiasm for film festivals is palpable. They serve as communities where creativity bursts forth, allowing filmmakers to connect in a supportive environment. Finally, she hints at future projects, including a new take on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, promising that another lengthy break is unlikely.
As Hamnet prepares for a wider release, it not only marks Zhao’s return to filmmaking but also offers a profound look into the complexities of love and loss, echoing themes that resonate deeply in our lives today.
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Chloe Zhao,Focus Features,international,Jessie Buckley,Paul Mescal,TIFF 2025,Toronto 2025,Toronto Film Festival,Toronto International Film Festival,Universal
