The term “Oscar Bait” seems to get tossed around as a lazy non-argument for why someone doesn’t like a certain type of movie. Hamnet is the latest film to be given this label, but what exactly does it mean? Is it the award-worthy, career best performances? Maybe the gorgeous cinematography and stunning score? Or, perhaps it’s that this is an emotionally resonant, profoundly affecting and faithful adaptation of an award winning novel. Whatever the reason, if this is Oscar Bait, consider me hooked and reeled in.
Coming off of her divisive venture into big budget blockbuster territory, Chloe Zhao returns to her more intimate roots with this stunning adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s best selling novel. This fictional account of a young William Shakespeare’s life is steeped in true events, but fills in the missing details to tremendous emotional effect. The rumours of the inspiration behind Shakespeare’s Hamlet are explored to new depths. Shakespeare buffs will take a lot away from this film, but even those unfamiliar with his works will find a beautifully devastating story that strikes the heartstrings in all the right ways. If I were to fault the movie for just one thing - and it may be more my fault for not brushing up on Hamlet in almost 20 years - it’s that the final 15 minutes may momentarily lose some viewers. I found myself trying to recount the events of the story as the stage play unfolded on screen, instead of being just swept up in the moment like I should’ve been.
Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal have both delivered award worthy performances in the past, and this is another career highlight for both of them. This may actually be the best acting of Buckley’s career, giving her a very strong shot at Best Actress next year. The way she carries Agnes’ grief and unyielding love for her family is incredible. Her expressiveness brought me to tears more than once, sending goosebumps down my spine during one pivotal moment. Mescal will once again win you over with his eyes and smile, but will also leave you a wreck when that smile disappears. The young actors deliver exceptional turns as well, namely Jacobi Jupe as the titular Hamnet. There’s some brilliant casting late in the film using his older brother, that will leave you a blubbering mess.
Zhao’s gentle direction and use of lingering shots is perfection. Cinematographer Lukasz Zal makes excellent use of natural lighting and muted colours, allowing us to really focus on the performances. The film allows us to sit in certain moments longer than we’re comfortable with, and cuts away from others before we’re ready to say goodbye. Max Richter’s score is used sparingly, underscoring and elevating already emotional moments to heartbreaking heights. There use of his infamous “On the Nature of Daylight” during the film’s profoundly moving climax will break you. Seriously, is it possible not to cry when that song is used?
Chloe Zhao explodes back onto the indie scene with a deeply emotional, profoundly moving piece of cinema that’ll leave the entire audience without a dry eye. Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley will capture and break your heart. Whether you consider this Oscar bait, or a genuine awards contender, this film is generating big buzz for obvious reasons.
Rating: ★★★★½
Review by: Benjamin Garrett