Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet Opens in France After Golden Globes Triumph

The French theatrical debut follows Golden Globes recognition, with early reviews highlighting a lyrical portrait of grief tied to artistic creation.

Overview

  • Released in French cinemas on January 21, the film adapts Maggie O’Farrell’s novel into a fictionalized account centered on Agnes and William Shakespeare.
  • Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal lead the cast, with Buckley winning Best Actress and the film taking Best Motion Picture – Drama at the Golden Globes.
  • Critics broadly praise the poetic, nature‑infused direction and performances, though some argue the sentimentality and heightened lyricism feel excessive.
  • Chloé Zhao frames the project as a personal exploration of mortality and love, using spiritual and sensory imagery; Steven Spielberg’s Amblin is among the producers.
  • Outlets report conflicting runtimes (commonly 2h05, with one citing 2h50), as the release arrives with strong festival momentum and Oscars buzz.