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Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet Opens in Limited Release to Strong Reviews

Early praise centers on Jessie Buckley as Zhao’s most personal film enters awards season.

Overview

  • The adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel is now playing in select U.S. theaters, with wider domestic rollout reported for December and a U.K. theatrical launch planned for January.
  • Critics single out Jessie Buckley’s turn as Agnes as a standout, with Jacobi Jupe’s performance drawing special notice for its impact, alongside Paul Mescal’s restrained portrayal.
  • Zhao describes the project as her most vulnerable work following a four-year hiatus, after festival stops including Telluride and Mill Valley where it drew strong audience and critical reactions.
  • Reviews emphasize the film’s emotional catharsis rooted in family and creativity without relying on heavy spectacle, noting Zhao’s focus on intimate character work.
  • Production details highlight naturalistic period design by Fiona Crombie, candlelit and outdoor visuals, and a constructed Globe Theatre interior, reflecting a minimal-CGI approach.