Hamnet Review: The Tragedy Behind Shakespeare's Tragedy –

RATING - ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 3/5*

Hamlet Review Movie Talkies:

Hamlet is one of the most celebrated tragedies by William Shakespeare. Hamnet opens with a note clarifying that Hamnet and Hamlet are essentially the same word. This film takes us behind the real-life experiences of Shakespeare and imagines what may have led him to create his longest and most tragic play, Hamlet. The film is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel Hamnet, which presents a fictionalised account of the death of Shakespeare’s only son, Hamnet.

Hamlet Story:

The story unfolds in the forest as the beautiful Agnes and William fall in love and marry after she becomes pregnant—much to her family’s disgrace. However, life soon turns difficult for them. William leaves for London, and Agnes is left alone to care for the children. During the bubonic plague epidemic, their daughter Judith first catches the deadly disease, which then spreads to her brother Hamnet, who dies in agony. Helpless and furious, Agnes blames William for not being with the family during their darkest hour, and that regret eventually inspires the creation of the tragedy Hamlet.

The screenplay takes time to settle because the love story unfolds slowly. The film maintains a measured pace for nearly two hours before delivering an emotional breakout in the final moments. Still, the patience it demands feels justified because of the powerful finale.

Hamlet Cast:

Performances across the board are strong. Jessie Buckley, as Agnes Shakespeare, is fantastic from the very first frame. Hamnet’s death scene brings out some of the finest expressions of her career. Paul Mescal also performs well, and his final emotional monologue on stage is truly incredible. Jacobi Jupe is endearing as Hamnet, while Olivia Lynes is adorable in her part. Joe Alwyn does a fine job as Agnes’ brother.

Hamlet Movie Review:

Technically, the film is very sound. Cinematography, editing, production design, sound, and art direction all work effectively to create an immersive period atmosphere. After the debacle of Eternals, Chloé Zhao returns to her Nomadland zone with Hamnet. It carries that same slow-paced, emotionally absorbing quality—you know exactly what I mean.

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