Story perspectives

Chloé Zhao's 'Hamnet': A Dark Journey Through Love and Grief

1/12/2026

Summary

Zhao Explores Grief

Chloé Zhao, the director of Hamnet, portrays William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes.
Lukasz Zal, the cinematographer, emphasizes their contrasting worlds through framing and location.
Following their son Hamnet's death, the film's tone shifts toward darker visuals.
Malgosia Turzanska, costume designer, uses clothing to show Shakespeare's struggles and brokenness.
Max Richter, the composer, describes the score as dark, guiding the film's exploration of love and grief.

Summary

Zhao Boosts Tourism

The film Hamnet, directed by Chloé Zhao, is expected to boost Herefordshire tourism.
It is based on Maggie O'Farrell's novel and follows William Shakespeare and his family.
Weobley was transformed for filming and now attracts visitors, with Hamnet trails and exhibitions planned.
Richard Paterson from the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust says the film highlights Shakespeare's heritage and could boost Stratford-upon-Avon foot traffic and local businesses.

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Zhao Explores Grief

Chloé Zhao, the director of Hamnet, portrays William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes.
Lukasz Zal, the cinematographer, emphasizes their contrasting worlds through framing and location.
Following their son Hamnet's death, the film's tone shifts toward darker visuals.
Malgosia Turzanska, costume designer, uses clothing to show Shakespeare's struggles and brokenness.
Max Richter, the composer, describes the score as dark, guiding the film's exploration of love and grief.

1 / 2