Dan Merl provides an in-depth review of the film 'Hamnet'. The movie, directed by Khloe Xiao, is a strong contender for several Oscar categories, including Best Picture, Director, and more. It has already made waves by winning the People's Choice Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival, a key indicator of potential Oscar success.
'Hamnet', currently in limited release, is expected to expand widely as awards season progresses. The film adapts Maggie O'Farrell's 2020 novel, presenting a fictional take on William Shakespeare's family tragedy. Notably, the film focuses on his wife, Anus, played by Jessie Buckley, a character portrayed with depth and intensity as she navigates personal grief amidst Shakespeare's frequent absences.
The film’s narrative also highlights how Shakespeare channels his sorrow into the timeless play, 'Hamlet'. While some may critique Paul Mezcal's recurring portrayal of anguished characters, Merl defends his nuanced performance as Shakespeare, finding both Buckley and Mezcal deserving of accolades.
Performances are the standout element of 'Hamnet', enriched by the naturalistic portrayal of Hamnet by Jacobe Jup. The film also mentions Noah Jup’s impressive contributions, drawing comparisons to his past performances.
Despite some overly explicit Shakespeare references, Merl commends the movie's execution, especially praising the cinematography by Wukas Joel and the evocative score by Max Richter. The closing moments, compared to 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' elevate the film to a memorable conclusion despite any mid-films dips.
Though Merl expresses minor reservations about certain repetitive plot points, the film's rewarding elements make it a must-watch for those tracking award contenders, heralded by impeccable performances and artistry.