Exploring the Heartbreak of Loss in Chloe Zhao's 'Hamnet'

Chloe Zhao's film 'Hamnet', adapted from Maggie O'Farrell's novel, delves into the profound sorrow of losing a child, exploring themes of grief and inspiration. The story centers on the life of Hamnet, the son of William Shakespeare, and how his untimely death may have influenced one of the playwright's most famous works. With a captivating performance by Jessie Buckley and a haunting score, the film captures the emotional depth of its characters and the impact of loss. Discover how Zhao brings this poignant narrative to life in a visually stunning adaptation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 27, 2026, 08:38 IST

A Tale of Grief and Inspiration

Maggie O’Farrell eloquently states, “Every life has its kernel, its hub, its epicentre, from which everything flows out, to which everything returns,” in her acclaimed novel Hamnet. This work serves as the foundation for Chloe Zhao’s Oscar-nominated film adaptation. O’Farrell’s narrative delves into the sorrow that follows an untimely death, presenting a Shakespearean tragedy that the playwright himself never penned.

Hamnet, the sole son of William Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway, tragically passed away at the age of 11 in 1596 due to illness. O’Farrell’s historical fiction suggests that Hamnet may have inspired the character of Hamlet, linking the boy’s death to one of Shakespeare’s most famous works.

In collaboration with Zhao, O’Farrell has co-written the screenplay. In the film, Agnes, known as Anne, is portrayed as a wild spirit, emerging from the forest in her vibrant red dress.

Will (played by Paul Mescal) is captivated by Agnes (Jessie Buckley), drawn to her untamed hair and her vibrant energy. Agnes, whose mother was a healer, possesses an ethereal quality, often speaking in riddles and discussing omens and dreams that seem to come true.

Agnes encourages Will to leave their rural life behind and pursue opportunities in London, resulting in the couple having three children. Despite his frequent absences, Will cherishes moments with his son (Jacobi Jupe), whom he adores.

As the story unfolds, hints of impending sacrifice emerge, echoing the themes of Shakespeare’s unwritten plays. The lushness of Will and Anne’s courtship, beautifully captured by cinematographer Lukasz Zal and production designer Fiona Crombie, eventually gives way to darker tones.

Chloe Zhao masterfully evokes the profound sorrow of losing a child, reminiscent of Satyajit Ray’s iconic Pather Panchali. In Hamnet, art becomes a healing force, elevating the film beyond a mere exploration of historical events.

The film features a talented cast, including Emily Watson as Will’s mother and Joe Alwyn as Agnes’s brother, but it is Jessie Buckley’s poignant portrayal of Agnes that stands out. Buckley embodies the character with a blend of wildness and grace, fully engaging with her fellow actors and the environment.

However, the narrative begins to falter as Hamnet’s health declines. The climax draws heavily from the play-within-a-play concept found in Hamlet. The 126-minute film shifts into a tear-jerking mode, creating moments that demand emotional resolution.

The haunting score by Max Richter features his renowned piece, On the Nature of Daylight, which has previously been used in Denis Villeneuve’s Arrival during a poignant scene about a child’s death. While this composition plays a significant role in Hamnet, it cannot overshadow the emotional depth conveyed through Jessie Buckley’s expressive performance.