Thursday, October 1, 2026
®
The World's Local News Source®
Cherryville, NC (WNN) - With the box office slowing down a bit this weekend and Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey continuing to draw audiences, now is the time to revisit one of 2025's most acclaimed films.
Set in 16th-century England, Hamnet is a historical drama (based on the 2020 novel by Maggie O'Farrell) that depicts the events that inspired William Shakespeare's tragedy, Hamlet. As someone unfamiliar with the story of Hamlet, I found the film's narrative more impactful because I experienced its major plot developments without knowing where they would lead. So, consider this your spoiler warning... for a play that's been around for more than 400 years... or six years, if you're going strictly by the novel.
Jessie Buckley (L) acting opposite of Paul Mescal (R) | Movie still from Hamnet
You may be wondering why the film is titled "Hamnet" if it's about Hamlet. That is because the film follows the love and grief that consume the Shakespeare family after William's 11-year-old son, Hamnet, dies. Many historians believe the playwright drew from that devastating loss when writing Hamlet, which premiered just a few years later. Featuring Shakespeare's iconic line, "To be, or not to be, that is the question," Hamnet is a deeply emotional period drama that will resonate with anyone who appreciates historical storytelling and heartfelt performances.
The ensemble cast's performances, directed by Chloé Zhao, are what make this film so captivating. Paul Mescal (who plays William Shakespeare) showcases a range of complex emotions from ambition to heartbreak as the narrative unfolds. Opposite him, Jessie Buckley (who plays Agnes Shakespeare) had the most compelling performance of the entire movie, portraying a woman who would do anything to protect her children from the world's hardships. She took home the Academy Award for Best Actress just months ago. The young actors portraying the Shakespeare children are just as outstanding, delivering believable performances and handling the film's most emotionally demanding moments with maturity well beyond their years.
Jessie Buckley playing Agnes Shakespeare | Movie Still from Hamnet
Beyond its performances and filmmaking, the film's depth lies in its subtle moments. The symbolism of the hawk and the iconography of the cave offer layers of meaning that linger long after the technical achievements. There's a reason why this film was nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. Let us know what you thought of the movie by emailing us here: newsdesk@wisenewsnetwork.com
For further WNN articles and news stories, visit https://wisenewsnetwork.com
For more WNN video news stories, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork
Contact WNN at newsdesk@wisenewsnetwork.com
North Carolina Press Association Member
©️Copyright 2026 Wise News Network. All rights reserved.
