Story perspectives

Chloé Zhao's 'Hamnet' Earns 8 Oscar Nominations, Streaming Now

3/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Hamnet, directed by Chloé Zhao, released November 26, 2025 in the U.S., and earned eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Jessie Buckley, who portrays Agnes.
The narrative draws from Maggie O'Farrell, the novel's author, emphasizing Agnes's strength during grief.
Critics praise its emotional depth and subversion of traditional narratives surrounding William Shakespeare, the playwright.
Hamnet is available for streaming on Peacock and rental platforms.

History

Historical Context

The death of William Shakespeare's son Hamnet in 1601 deeply affected his work, infusing themes of loss and grief into his plays. This legacy continues to resonate today, as seen in Chloé Zhao's 2025 film "Hamnet," which explores the emotional turmoil of Shakespeare's family. The film's eight Oscar nominations underscore Shakespeare's lasting influence on contemporary storytelling and human emotion.

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Story summary

Hamnet, directed by Chloé Zhao, released November 26, 2025 in the U.S., and earned eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Jessie Buckley, who portrays Agnes.
The narrative draws from Maggie O'Farrell, the novel's author, emphasizing Agnes's strength during grief.
Critics praise its emotional depth and subversion of traditional narratives surrounding William Shakespeare, the playwright.
Hamnet is available for streaming on Peacock and rental platforms.

1 / 2