Exploring Tension and Intrigue in Nia DaCosta's 'Hedda'

Nia DaCosta's film 'Hedda' presents a gripping character study set in the 1950s, exploring themes of ambition, tension, and the complexities of female relationships. As guests gather at Hedda's lavish countryside home, the atmosphere thickens with intrigue and underlying resentment. This modern adaptation of Ibsen's classic play showcases powerful performances, particularly from Tessa Thompson and Nina Hoss, as they navigate a web of social climbing and personal conflict. The film invites viewers to reflect on the characters' struggles for survival and control in a society that often undermines women. Available now on Prime Video, 'Hedda' promises an engaging cinematic experience.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 3, 2025, 09:57 IST

A Night of Intrigue and Tension

As a guest at a party filled with tension and drama expresses her desire to leave before disaster strikes, her host quips that the ideal moment to exit is after chaos has ensued and the authorities have arrived.

The atmosphere of the evening is heavy with foreboding. Unkind words are exchanged, and guests reveal their true selves, often in unflattering ways. The looming threat of a significant event hangs in the air, mingling with the flow of drinks. For the host, Hedda (played by Tessa Thompson), this gathering is a game, as she navigates through the crowd with a confidence that belies her underlying anxiety.

Hedda's Ambitious Social Climb

Hedda has invited friends to her sprawling new home in the countryside, a mansion that she and her husband George (Tom Bateman) struggle to afford. Her intention is to leverage her social status among her guests, which include a professor whom George hopes to impress for a desirable teaching role, and Hedda's former lover, who is also George's professional adversary.

Among the guests is Eileen (Nina Hoss), who finds herself in a complicated situation with her current partner Thea (Imogen Poots) present, alongside Hedda's simmering resentment.

A Modern Adaptation of a Classic

Nia DaCosta’s film Hedda offers a compelling character exploration, filled with ambitious women and self-serving men. This 107-minute feature is now available on Prime Video.

DaCosta, known for her diverse filmography that includes the horror film Candyman and the superhero flick The Marvels, adapts Henrik Ibsen's classic play Hedda Gabler from 1891. Notably, she reimagines Hedda's former lover as a woman, introducing a layer of queerness to the narrative.

Themes of Survival and Control

Ibsen’s anti-heroine remains one of literature's most intricate characters, adapting to societies that often reduce women to mere tools of manipulation. DaCosta’s screenplay emphasizes the struggle of women for survival, relevance, and autonomy, portraying their desperation vividly.

Similar to its source material, Hedda does not provide straightforward answers to the characters' actions. Instead, it encourages viewers to perceive them as both victims and agents of the societal structures they aim to challenge.

Setting and Performances

Set in the 1950s, the film unfolds entirely within an English estate reminiscent of Downton Abbey. The narrative shifts through various spaces as the camera follows Hedda, who is determined to secure the best outcome for her husband while redefining her relationship with her ex-lover.

Tessa Thompson delivers a stunning performance as Hedda, embodying her character's blend of charm and ruthlessness. Nina Hoss shines as Eileen, whose escalating conflict with Hedda and Thea culminates in a dramatic confrontation. The film builds tension towards this pivotal moment, showcasing Hedda's secretive plotting.

Additional Film Recommendations

Also start the week with these films:

In ‘Raat’, a never-ending night of terror

Brotherhood and betrayal in ‘Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana’

Revisiting ‘Shakti’, the other Ramesh Sippy classic