As explained in the opening graphic, Hamnet and Hamlet were interchangeable names in Shakespeare’s time. Paul Mescal plays the Bard early in his career (which is almost never discussed), but it’s Jessie Buckley, as his wife, who center’s the film and firmly establishes her place as one of her generation’s finest actors. Their marriage is tested after the death of their young son, Hamnet, which culminates in the production of the famous play at the Globe Theatre (the film’s most powerful and touching sequence). Buckley runs the range of emotions and her skill at showing new insights into emotions is inspiring. Mescal if full of intensity and the young actors who play Hamnet (Jacobi Jupe) and Hamlet (Noah Jupe) not only prove exceptionally moving, but happen to be brothers in real life. Director Chloé Zhao has staged many of the scenes in wide shots, feeling more like a play without the expected closeups. Her gentle direction still exposes the rawness of pain, esp. in Buckley’s case. Also with Zhao, expect a somber pace and this film does take its time. While it does get a bit wearying with it’s slow scenarios, it ultimately proves an intimate and moving mediation on love and grief. 
(3 / 5)
