Key Highlights
- Evelyn O’Rourke reports on the Dublin premiere of ‘Hamnet’ with Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley.
- Mescal and Buckley were delighted to be back in Ireland for the film’s premiere.
- The movie, directed by Chloé Zhao, is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel about Shakespeare’s family life.
- Buckley highlighted the pride of sharing her work with Irish audiences.
Stars Shine in Dublin Premiere: Mescal and Buckley Celebrate ‘Hamnet’
Evelyn O’Rourke, Arts and Media Correspondent, reports from the red carpet event at the Lighthouse cinema in Smithfield, Dublin. The Irish acting duo, Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, attended the premiere of their new historical drama, Hamnet, which is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel about William Shakespeare’s family life.
The film, directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao, tells a fictionalised story of Anne Hathaway (referred to as Agnes in the film) and William Shakespeare, exploring their lives impacted by tragedy. Mescal, who was nominated for a Golden Globe earlier this week for his role in Aftersun, expressed excitement about the film’s reception: “There is real excitement around the film and it is just wonderful to take it home.”
Homecoming for the Stars
Mescal, originally from Kildare, highlighted that returning to Dublin for the premiere was a special moment. He said, “We are telling a story about Shakespeare and his family, and we took it incredibly seriously. There is a feeling of pride and reverence to do with the playwright’s work.” Mescal further added, “It would have been the perfect opportunity for this role to happen, and I’m glad that it did.”
For Jessie Buckley, bringing Hamnet back home was deeply meaningful.
She said, “I feel great. I always love coming back to Ireland. I feel so excited about sharing this film in Ireland.” Buckley, born and raised in Kerry, also expressed gratitude for the Irish connection: “There are so many Irish people involved in Hamnet, and it is always beautiful to share things with the people who know you the most.”
Behind-the-Scenes Story
Buckley described her co-star Mescal as a “journey partner,” “sparring partner,” and “life partner.” She added, “Growing up in this country is so part of our expression, and we share so much in what is important to us about the work we make. Both being from here, it’s a beautiful moment.”
During a special event at the Irish Film Institute earlier that day, Chloé Zhao revealed how she had met Mescal after he heard she was working on Hamnet. Mescal had told her that he was a huge fan of O’Farrell’s novel and went to great lengths to make an impression.
For Buckley’s casting, Zhao said she saw her performance in The Lost Daughter, which led to this role.
Mescal and Buckley received six nominations at the Golden Globes for their performances in Hamnet. The film’s success has added to the growing Oscar buzz surrounding both actors. O’Farrell also appeared, stating that she had never imagined becoming a Golden Globe nominee after agreeing to be co-writer with Zhao.
The premiere was not only about celebrating the film but also about connecting with Irish audiences and sharing this significant moment in their careers. Both Mescal and Buckley expressed gratitude for the support they received from fans outside the cinema, adding to the emotional and triumphant atmosphere of the evening.
