Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley Unveil ‘Hamnet’ at TIFF 2025

UPDATE: Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley just premiered their highly anticipated film, ‘Hamnet’, at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 7, 2025. Mescal describes the film, adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel, as feeling “almost like a documentary,” capturing the emotional depth surrounding the life of William Shakespeare.

The film explores the profound relationship between Shakespeare and his wife, Agnes, as well as the tragic death of their son, Hamnet, which is believed to have inspired the creation of ‘Hamlet’. While scholars affirm that Shakespeare had a son named Hamnet, the exact influence of this loss on his work remains speculative. Mescal asserts that the adaptation reveals “something real” about the origins of Shakespeare’s artistry.

“This book and this script and this film is the closest thing to me that makes sense out of how we got the play ‘Hamlet’,” Mescal stated on the red carpet. His passion for the project prompted director Chloe Zhao to take it on after he read the novel, originally titled ‘Hamnet and Judith’ in Canada.

The film had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado just days prior and is already generating significant Oscar buzz. Buckley’s portrayal of Agnes has been particularly lauded, adding layers to the often overlooked female presence in Shakespeare’s life.

Reflecting on her experience, Buckley noted, “He’s such a potent spectre in a lot of our lives,” emphasizing the significance of bringing Agnes’s character to life. Although she has played several Shakespearean roles, she acknowledges that her portrayal of Agnes will linger in her creative pursuits.

As audiences eagerly await further screenings, the impact of ‘Hamnet’ is becoming increasingly clear. The film is not just a retelling of Shakespeare’s life but a deep dive into the emotional currents that shaped his legacy. With its blend of historical speculation and emotional truth, ‘Hamnet’ is positioned to resonate deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and the film continues to garner attention on the festival circuit.