Photo by Emma Quirk ’26
Tower Theaters recently finished showing ‘Hamnet,’ a new film directed by MHC alum Chloé Zhao.
By Aspen Pearson ’28
Staff Writer
Chloé Zhao was once a student at Mount Holyoke College, graduating in 2005 with a major in political science and a minor in film. Since her time at Mount Holyoke, she has received multiple Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Picture for Nomadland.
Her latest film, “Hamnet,” is a film adaptation based on the book “Hamnet,” written by Maggie O’Farrell. Rather than the traditional biopic structure, which may focus on historical exploration, this film functions as an expansive exploration of grief, love and loss. It centers on the emotional aftermath of tragedy rather than the event itself, creating a story that is inward-looking and deeply reflective.
Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley gave some of the best performances of the year as Will and Agnes. Buckley delivers a performance that is tender, heartbreaking, and transformative; viewers can’t help but feel what she is feeling. She is both a nominee for the Oscar Best Actress in a Leading Role and a recipient of a Golden Globe for this performance. Further, Jacobi Jupe, who plays Hamnet, delivers a deeply emotional performance that is especially striking given his young age.
A particularly powerful aspect of Hamnet is its focus on motherhood and the bond between mother and child. Agnes stands at the emotional center of the film, and some of its most moving moments involve her longing for her own mother and her relentless attempts to protect her children, even when those efforts prove futile. One of the most stand out parts of the film is how throughout this, Agnes never loses her spirit. Her bohemian nature remains intact, and she does not surrender her identity in order to fulfill the roles of mother and wife.
Another key theme is the role of art in processing grief. Creation is portrayed not as an escape from pain, but as a way of giving it structure and meaning. This idea feels especially relevant in a contemporary context, as many people turn to art to navigate collective loss and uncertainty. Shakespeare’s life seeps into his work, and that work becomes vital for both Agnes and Shakespeare as they attempt to process the loss of their son. “Hamlet” is transformed for the viewer not simply as a literary masterpiece, but as a living act of mourning.
Beyond the very moving, emotional themes within the movie, one of the film’s strongest elements is its cinematography. It features many long-held camera shots in moments of intimacy, artistic glimpses into the natural world, and close-ups that feel raw and unedited. It is a stunning watch from start to finish.
Tower Theaters recently finished showing Hamnet, which had been priced at $12 per student ticket. Hamnet is a must-see for Shakespeare fans or anyone simply looking for a good cry. For anyone seeking cinema that lingers long after the credits roll, Hamnet delivers.
Emelin Chuquimarca '28 contributed fact-checking.