Hamnet

After my oscar movie marathon progresses, I stumble on this movie of which I had 0 knowledge about. I didn't even know about what the movie was about and thought it was another adaptation of Hamlet. The only few things that made me watch the movie was Paul Mescal, who I saw in the heart wrenching movie from 2024 "Aftersun", I was really looking forward to seeing him again in his next venture. The main reason that I was looking forward to watching this movie was Jessie Buckley winning the best actress. This is legit the first movie I watched starring her. So, I dived in with 0 knowledge about the plot but hyped by the two leads. So, how did the movie fair? Hamnet in all its glory is such a moving piece of cinema that is emotionally rich and visually grounded. The plot is very solid and slowly builds the relationships around the character which are the blood and bones of the movie. Visually, I liked the wide shots of nature that feels immersive and so beautiful. There are also some static shots during some of the scenes where you see all the action take place and it makes you feel like you are watching a play on a theatre, which I found really cool, considering the plot. Paul Mescal, what do I even say about this man? He is such a fine actor and the way he portrays this character could've made it or break it and he thrives with flying colours. His inner grief, his struggle with his work, the side of him he hides from his family. He is just amazing. Especially, on the final act of the movie. Jessie Buckley. Just Wow. She is the emotional anchor of the movie and she is so convincing as the loving mother of three. Her acting when processing grief in the movie is soul crushing yet captivating. She has this mystical charm that is spellbinding as she totally grabs your attention throughout the runtime. There is no doubt on my mind, how she bagged that Oscar. Very well deserved. Even the kid who plays Hamnet, was so convincing. He plays the role with such innocence and kindness, it is very palpable. Kids nowadays have such talent. I did resonate with the theme here and it's actually what makes the ending or the final act of the movie such a moving piece of art that keeps you emotionally invested and is just so powerful. I'm just so glad I went to this movie without searching anything and I was very pleasantly surprised. Loved it a lot.