As readers know from my previous reviews, I’m not a big fan of period pieces (see this year’s HEDDA). With that in mind, I went into HAMNET with limited expectations and did my best to “keep my heart open.” I was excited to see Chloé Zhao’s (THE RIDER, ETERNALS, NOMADLAND) latest film.
And so, for the first 60 minutes or so, the film meanders through pretty scenery, a lovely Max Richter score, and some of the most intimate, contemplative shots of nature since Terrence Malick pioneered this style. Then… holy f*cking shit! Jessie Buckley comes in out of nowhere and delivers an earth-shattering scene that will easily make her a contender in this year’s Oscar race. When it arrives, audiences will find themselves catching their breath, and reaching for tissues – as it’s one of the most visceral moments in any film this past year.
Beyond that unforgettable scene and moving finale, HAMNET prioritizes poetic mood over traditional storytelling. This approach won’t appeal to everyone, but for me, witnessing Buckley’s performance and being reminded why Max Richter (THE LEFTOVERS) remains one of my favorite composers was enough to give it a mild thumbs up.
It’s available in theaters now.
