After a four-year hiatus following the critical success of *Nomadland* and *Eternals*, acclaimed director Chloé Zhao returns to the cinematic world with her adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's *Hamnet*. This isn't just any return; it's a poignant exploration of Shakespeare's life through the lens of loss and love, a story that deeply resonated with Zhao despite initial hesitation.
The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) to rave reviews, stars Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley as William and Agnes Shakespeare, respectively. Zhao, co-writing the screenplay with O'Farrell, masterfully weaves a fictional narrative around the death of the Shakespeare's young son, Hamnet, exploring the profound impact of grief on their relationship and the surprising genesis of *Hamlet* itself.
Zhao's decision to direct *Hamnet* wasn't immediate. Initially hesitant due to a perceived lack of personal experience with such profound loss, she found herself drawn to the project after meeting Mescal. She vividly describes the palpable chemistry between Mescal and Buckley, highlighting the casting process as a pivotal moment that cemented her commitment to the project.
The film's exploration of love and loss isn't a simple dichotomy. Zhao delves into the complexities of grief, illustrating how William and Agnes, despite their deep connection, experience and process loss in vastly different ways. Their contrasting approaches to emotional expression create a poignant tension, showcasing the challenges inherent in navigating a relationship under the weight of immense sorrow. The film subtly suggests that *Hamlet* serves as a conduit for William's grief, a pathway to processing his emotions and ultimately a bridge back towards Agnes.
Zhao's collaboration with Steven Spielberg and Sam Mendes, the film's producers, proves fruitful, highlighting the trust and creative freedom afforded to her. She likens the relationship to that of a student and mentor, praising their respect for her artistic vision and the support offered throughout the filmmaking process.
Reflecting on the four-year break, Zhao likens the experience of completing *Hamnet* to raising a child – a journey filled with imperfections but ultimately rewarding. She expresses both excitement and nerves about the film's release, emphasizing the lessons learned about accepting imperfection and self-love. The importance of film festivals like TIFF in showcasing independent filmmaking and fostering creative connections is also noted, highlighting the invaluable role they play in nurturing the industry.
Concluding the interview, Zhao briefly touches upon her next project: a highly anticipated adaptation of *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating what she will create next.
---
Originally published at: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/chloe-zhao-hamnet-tiff-interview-paul-mescal-jessie-buckley-1236355477/
