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Chloé Zhao's 'Hamnet' Wins TIFF, Eyes Best Picture Nod

12/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Chloé Zhao's Hamnet, based on Maggie O'Farrell's novel, portrays William Shakespeare and his family after their son's death.
Starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, it earned acclaim, including a perfect Rotten Tomatoes debut and 88%.
It won the top prize at the Toronto International Film Festival, signaling Best Picture prospects for 2026.
Audiences respond to its themes of love and loss, but box office remains limited ahead of December 5.

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Story summary

Chloé Zhao's Hamnet, based on Maggie O'Farrell's novel, portrays William Shakespeare and his family after their son's death.
Starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, it earned acclaim, including a perfect Rotten Tomatoes debut and 88%.
It won the top prize at the Toronto International Film Festival, signaling Best Picture prospects for 2026.
Audiences respond to its themes of love and loss, but box office remains limited ahead of December 5.