There’s no doubt that you know the works of William Shakespeare, and probably have seen some of the multiple reiterations of his plays on the stage or screen. But most of the films seem to center the Bard, and his work – but very rarely the truth behind his life and family. But the new film from Focus Features, Hamnet, puts Shakespeare’s life on display while focuses on one of the greatest losses in his life.
Hamnet brings to the screen the story of the Shakespeare family, William, his wife Agnes and their children. While William is in London the plague makes its way to the country side where Agnes is left with sick children. When their son Hamnet takes ill and dies, the relationship between the couple and family is put to the test. While Agnes grieves and suffers, without her husband by her side, William picks up his quill and uses his own grief to write one of his best known plays – Hamlet.
The movie is based on the book of the same name by Maggie O’Farrell, which is a fictional account of Shakespeare’s inspiration for the play. The book was later adapted into a play and now for the screen. The truth behind Hamnet’s life and death, and the story around it may be in question, but the emotions it evokes does make for a great movie and is surely one that will win over audiences.
Hamnet is very simply put, beautiful and an emotional journey. From the emotional performance from both the lead actors to the children, there isn’t a weak performance in the cast. And while you may think you know the story of Hamlet, the story behind one of histories most famous plays will move you to tears. It’s remarkable being a film focused on Shakespeare, that for once, it’s a story that we haven’t seen before and he’s not the main character for the whole film. It’s genuine, human and raw.
Hamnet is now playing in theaters everywhere.
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About Hamnet
From Academy Award® winning writer/director Chloé Zhao, Hamnet tells the powerful story of love and loss that inspired the creation of Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Hamlet.