The Toronto International Film Festival is in full swing, and one of its biggest moments has already arrived with the world premiere of Hamnet, the latest work from Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao.
Adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel, the film tells the powerful story of love and loss that inspired Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, Hamlet. Directed, co-written, and co-edited by Zhao, Hamnet is capturing attention as one of TIFF’s most talked-about premieres.
Star Power on the Red Carpet
The premiere brought out an extraordinary lineup of talent. Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley lead the cast, joined by Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn, Jacobi Jupe, and Noah Jupe. Their presence on the TIFF red carpet added even more excitement to the festival’s already electric atmosphere.
Behind the Scenes Excellence
The film’s creative team is just as impressive. Producers Liza Marshall, Nicolas Gonda, Pippa Harris, Sam Mendes, and Steven Spielberg support Zhao’s vision, while costume designer Malgosia Turzanska brings period detail to life. Executive producers Kristie Macosko Krieger and Laurie Borg add their weight to the production alongside Zhao herself.
A Story Rooted in Legacy
Written by Zhao and O’Farrell, the screenplay captures the emotional and intimate journey behind O’Farrell’s novel—imagining how personal grief and resilience shaped Shakespeare’s artistry. With Zhao’s poetic direction, Hamnet delivers a deeply human perspective that resonates with TIFF audiences.
As the festival continues, Hamnet stands out as both a moving tribute to Shakespeare’s legacy and a major contender for the awards season ahead.
