The film Hamnet, a contender at this year's Oscars, will begin streaming on Peacock on March 6. Directed by Chloe Zhao, the movie stars Paul Mescal as William Shakespeare and Jessie Buckley as his wife Anne. Buckley's performance has already earned her multiple awards.
Hamnet explores the tragic backstory of William Shakespeare's family and the inspiration behind Hamlet. The story centers on Shakespeare and his wife Anne, portrayed by Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, respectively. Their three children—Hamnet, Judith, and Susanna—are played by Jacobi Jupe, Olivia Lynes, and Bodhi Rae Breathnach. Additional cast members include Emily Watson as Shakespeare's mother, David Wilmot as his father, and Joe Alwyn as Anne's brother. The film adapts Maggie O’Farrell’s 2020 novel of the same name.
Jessie Buckley has received acclaim for her role as Anne, winning the Golden Globe for best actress in a drama film, the BAFTA award last weekend, and the Critics Choice award. She is nominated for best lead actress at this weekend's Actor Awards and next month's Oscars. Paul Mescal is also up for lead actor at the Actor Awards.
Hamnet is nominated for eight Oscars, including best picture, best director for Chloe Zhao, best actress for Buckley, adapted screenplay by Zhao and O’Farrell, costume design, achievement in casting, original score, and production design. At the Actor Awards on Sunday, the film competes for best ensemble, lead actress, and lead actor.
Buckley's Oscar competitors include Rose Byrne in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, Kate Hudson in Song Sung Blue, Renate Reinsve in Sentimental Value, and Emma Stone in Bugonia. The Peacock streaming release on March 6 allows viewers to catch the film before the Academy Awards.
