In a quaint theater nestled in the picturesque Colorado mountains, an Oscar contender has emerged. Chloé Zhao's highly anticipated drama, "Hamnet," made its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival on Friday. Before the film began, Zhao took the stage alongside her talented stars, Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, leading the audience in a poignant meditation, setting the emotional tone for the gripping story that was about to unfold.
The sold-out crowd, which included notable peers such as Ryan Coogler, the director of "Sinners," and actor-turned-director Harris Dickinson, was spellbound as the immaculate adaptation played out for a full 125 minutes. The film, a moving fictionalized portrait of grief and loss, resonated deeply, with audible sniffles and tears echoing throughout the venue, a testament to its profound emotional depth.
Chloé Zhao, who made history in April 2021 as the first woman of color and the first Asian woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director for her acclaimed drama "Nomadland" (2020), has once again captured the spotlight. "Hamnet" could potentially secure her a place in Oscar history as the first director to helm two films that clinch the prestigious award. Zhao is among only three women to direct a Best Picture winner, joining the ranks of Kathryn Bigelow for "The Hurt Locker" (2009) and Sian Heder for "CODA" (2021).
Based on the bestselling novel by Maggie O’Farrell, which Zhao co-adapted for the screen, "Hamnet" follows the heart-wrenching journey of William Shakespeare (played by Mescal) and his wife, Agnes (Buckley), as they navigate the devastating loss of their 11-year-old son, Hamnet, portrayed by the impressive Jacobi Jupe. The film also features a talented supporting cast that includes Joe Alwyn, Emily Watson, Jack Shalloo, Noah Jupe, and David Wilmot.
Jessie Buckley, who arrived at Telluride with her husband and their newborn, radiated excitement about the film's premiere. As a previous Oscar nominee for Best Supporting Actress for "The Lost Daughter" (2021), her first lead acting nomination now seems within reach, showcasing what many consider her best performance to date. Julie Huntsinger, executive director of the Telluride Film Festival, remarked, "Please Lord, it’s her year," emphasizing Buckley's standout role in the festival lineup.
Earlier in the day, Buckley was seen enjoying the festival's patron brunch, sharing a heartfelt embrace with her "Women Talking" co-star Claire Foy. Their camaraderie highlighted the close-knit nature of the film community at the festival. Later, Buckley was playfully swept off her feet by former co-star Riz Ahmed, who was also in attendance with his own Shakespearean adaptation, "Hamlet."
Paul Mescal, who received an Oscar nomination for "Aftersun" (2022), takes on the monumental role of Shakespeare in this adaptation. While cinematic portrayals of the iconic playwright have been numerous, few have garnered recognition from the Academy. Notably, Joseph Fiennes' portrayal in "Shakespeare in Love" (1998) received 13 nominations but did not include a nod for Fiennes himself.
Mescal is also showcasing his versatility at the festival, as his romantic drama "The History of Sound," co-starring Josh O’Connor, premiered later that weekend. With his compelling performance, a second Oscar nomination seems highly plausible. Young actor Jacobi Jupe's portrayal is drawing comparisons to previous breakout performances by Freddie Highmore in "Finding Neverland" and Jacob Tremblay in "Room," leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
"Hamnet" promises to excel in various artisan categories, including production design, cinematography, editing, and sound. The film features a captivating score by Max Richter, who is known for his beautiful original compositions. His iconic piece, "On the Nature of Daylight," has previously graced films like "Arrival" and popular TV shows such as "The Last of Us."
Distributed by Focus Features, "Hamnet" stands as one of several major awards contenders from the indie studio this year. Despite Focus Features' impressive track record of over 175 Oscar nominations and 35 wins since its establishment in 2002, the studio is still in pursuit of its first Best Picture win. With other contenders like Yorgos Lanthimos’ "Bugonia" and Daniel Day-Lewis’ upcoming film "Anemone," the competition is fierce.
"Hamnet" is set to screen as a Gala presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7. Following its limited theatrical release on November 27, the film will expand to a wider audience on December 12. With its emotional storytelling, powerful performances, and a strong pedigree behind the scenes, "Hamnet" is poised to make a significant impact this awards season.
Stay tuned for more updates and predictions regarding the upcoming Academy Awards as this remarkable film continues to garner attention.
