Chloé Zhao’s “Hamnet” Brings an Intimate Shakespeare Story to Theaters November 27

The film world is abuzz as Chloé Zhao, known for her acclaimed works “Nomadland” and “Eternals,” prepares to release her latest project, “Hamnet,” in select U.S. theaters on November 27, 2025, with a nationwide rollout set for December 12, 2025 . Adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel and co-written by Zhao, the film offers a fictionalized yet deeply emotional account of William Shakespeare, his wife Agnes (also known as Anne Hathaway), and the impact of the death of their son, Hamnet. This narrative not only examines the roots of Shakespeare’s artistic genius but foregrounds themes of grief, resilience, and nontraditional family bonds.

Fronting the cast are Paul Mescal as Shakespeare and Jessie Buckley as Agnes—both Oscar nominees celebrated for their previous roles in “Aftersun” and “The Lost Daughter,” respectively . Supporting actors include Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn, Jacobi Jupe, Jack Shalloo, and David Wilmot. The production team brings together industry luminaries such as Liza Marshall, Pippa Harris, Sam Mendes, Steven Spielberg, and Nicolas Gonda, underscoring the film’s high-profile nature .

A first-look image revealed by TIFF shows Mescal’s Shakespeare and Buckley’s Agnes in a lush forest, locked in a moment of emotional intensity—a visual emblem of the film’s focus on intimacy and shared pain . The film runs for 125 minutes and is produced by Amblin Entertainment, Book of Shadows, and Hera Pictures .

“Hamnet” centers on Agnes’s journey through grief after losing her only son, opening a window into Shakespeare’s family life rarely seen on screen. By focusing on Agnes’s perspective and her relationship with her husband, the film challenges conventional gender roles and highlights the transformative potential of vulnerability and artistic expression . Zhao’s signature style—a blend of poetic realism and quiet emotional power—creates space for viewers of all identities to see themselves reflected in the complexities of love and loss.

While the film does not explicitly depict LGBTQ+ characters, its themes of chosen family, resilience in the face of tragedy, and the significance of personal storytelling offer profound resonance for LGBTQ+ audiences. The story’s exploration of nontraditional relationships and emotional authenticity aligns with the values and lived experiences of many in the queer community. Moreover, Zhao’s history of inclusive storytelling and her thoughtful approach to marginalized perspectives suggest that “Hamnet” is poised to foster empathy and dialogue across diverse audiences .

The anticipation surrounding the film is evident across social media and festival platforms. “Hamnet” is slated to be a highlight at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where its exploration of historical grief and modern resonance is expected to spark discussion among critics, audiences, and LGBTQ+ advocates alike .

“Hamnet” invites viewers into a world of historical drama where the boundaries between public persona and private pain are blurred. For LGBTQ+ audiences, the film’s message—that healing and artistic creation can emerge from profound suffering—holds particular relevance. Whether through Shakespeare’s timeless plays or Agnes’s endurance, the story offers a reminder that empathy, understanding, and self-expression are vital tools in the ongoing struggle for visibility and acceptance.

As “Hamnet” opens in theaters this November, its lush imagery and nuanced performances promise to offer a fresh perspective on Shakespeare’s legacy. The film’s focus on love in its many forms—familial, romantic, and artistic—serves as an invitation for all audiences, especially those whose stories have been overlooked, to find connection and meaning in the universal experience of loss and renewal.