Key Highlights
- Jessie Buckley’s performance in “Hamnet” is praised but questioned for its intensity.
- Chloe Zhao directs a film based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel about the death of William Shakespeare’s son.
- The review contrasts Jessie Buckley’s over-the-top acting with Paul Mescal’s underwhelming portrayal as Will Shakespeare.
- “Hamnet” is described as a tearjerker but fails to elicit strong emotional responses from viewers.
Sorry, Hamnet: A Critical Review of Jessie Buckley’s Performance
The film “Hamnet,” directed by Chloe Zhao and based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, is a poignant exploration of loss and grief. However, its much-hyped tearjerker status has been called into question as the reviewer explores whether the performance of lead actress Jessie Buckley outweighs the narrative’s emotional weight.
Acting in Agnes: A Storm of Emotions
Jessie Buckley, known for her raw and powerful performances in films like “Beast,” takes on a more complex role as Agnes, a farmer’s daughter rumoured to be the offspring of a witch. The film demands multiple childbirths and a death from Buckley, who must convey these moments with intensity. Yet, Buckley’s performance is often criticized for its overexaggerated nature, likened to “howling to the heavens.” As Michael Caine once observed, the most moving moments in films are when actors do nothing; they suppress emotions rather than vent them.
In “Hamnet,” Buckley’s tempestuous displays of emotion become almost the entire show.
The film gives her three childbirths and a death to weather, but these moments seem indistinguishable from one another. Buckley opens her lungs and howls to the heavens, emphasizing that the audience may feel little more than the force of her performance.
Shakespeare’s Love Story: A Disappointing Take
The film also features a love story between Agnes and Will Shakespeare, played by Paul Mescal. Will is portrayed as shy and tongue-tied, despite being expected to be one of history’s greatest playwrights. This characterization is met with skepticism, making the audience question whether he truly was the vibrant wit we know from his works.
Will’s character is underwhelming; he sounds more like George McFly than a Shakespearean genius. His interactions are awkward and stilted, failing to capture any of the wit or charm that might have been expected from someone as influential as William Shakespeare.
The Audacity of Acting: A Mixed Bag
“Hamnet” is described by some early previews as the tearjerker to end all tearjerkers. However, viewers may sit through it with a stony face, questioning whether the film’s emotional intensity translates into genuine connection. Chloé Zhao directs the film, but her approach seems solipsistic, reminiscent of Hamlet itself.
The film’s focus on Buckley’s performance is evident; she gives birth at the base of a tree in a red dress, symbolizing her close relationship with nature.
However, this does not necessarily equate to profound emotional depth or a compelling narrative. The film is more about showcasing Buckley’s acting abilities than delivering a cohesive and moving story.
Conclusion
A Film Divided
While Jessie Buckley’s performance in “Hamnet” is undoubtedly impressive, it leaves the audience questioning whether the film itself achieves its emotional goals. Chloé Zhao’s direction and Maggie O’Farrell’s source material offer a rich narrative but fail to deliver the depth of emotion that might have been anticipated.
Ultimately, “Hamnet” serves as a reminder that the most moving moments in films are often those where actors do nothing more than convey their emotions subtly. Buckley’s performance is undoubtedly powerful, but it may be too much for the story on which it rests.
