The sensational film Hamnet, which was released in the UK on the 9th of January this year, captured the hearts of every viewer. Based on the 2020 book Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell, this film tells the story of a Latin tutor (Shakespeare) and a forest witch (Agnes/Anne Hathaway) who fall in love and are blessed with three children. Their son Hamnet dies unexpectedly, becoming the inspiration for Shakespeare’s tragedy Hamlet. What begins as an unlikely love story ends with tragedy, and a glimpse into the misunderstandings of grief when one is so involved in their own emotions. 

Academy Award-winning director Chloé Zhao (for Nomadland), known for her outstanding use of colour, continues this here, with colour playing a pivotal role in expressing complex emotions throughout the film.

The beautiful green tones of the English countryside, present from the very first few moments, provide a peaceful backdrop to the heavy emotions expressed by the characters. In contrast, the deep red dress worn by Jessie Buckley as Agnes signifies her separation from nature and the loss of her perceived identity as the ‘daughter of a forest witch,’ demonstrating her pain and grief as she becomes increasingly removed from the natural world.

The cacophony of sounds created by the wind in the trees and the birds above builds the emotional atmosphere and allows moments of respite for the audience. The use of the landscape and control of colour make this a beautiful watch. 

Jessie Buckley has a great understanding and love for the world of Shakespeare, as her facial expressions alone were enough to convey all the feelings through the screen. The performances from every cast member contribute to the greatness of this film, featuring a strong, young cast alongside the highly regarded actors Paul Mescal and Joe Alwyn.

Mescal plays a surprising Shakespeare, and whilst his performance is more restrained than Buckley’s, his monologues remain a vital contribution to the film. Together, the pair provide contrasting, moving and recognisable versions of grief which divide them and resonate with the audience.

This film will undoubtedly leave every viewer in tears, but most importantly, in peaceful reflection; the mind will linger on the grief for weeks to come.

Image credit: Charlotte Ward