The Big Picture ‘Hamnet’ and the 10 Best Performances of 2025. Plus: Kleber Mendonça Filho on ‘The Secret Agent.’
24 snips
Dec 12, 2025 
Join Joanna Robinson, a savvy film journalist, and Kleber Mendonça Filho, a Brazilian filmmaker, as they dive into the emotional depths of Chloe Zhao's adaptation of 'Hamnet.' They explore the film's powerful themes of grief and its contrasting responses. Kleber also shares insights on his film 'The Secret Agent,' discussing his creative journey and the unique decision to write the lead for Wagner Moura. Plus, they reveal their top performances of 2025, including standouts like Jesse Buckley and Amanda Seyfried.
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Communal Viewing Amplifies Hamnet
- Hamnet's power lies in communal theatrical experience rather than strict historical accuracy.
- The film translates grief and art's healing role into an accessibly emotional cinematic event.
Split Film, Split Reactions
- Chloe Zhao's Hamnet divides viewers: a slow, woo-woo first half and a devastatingly effective second half.
- Emotional payoff can redeem earlier pacing or stylistic choices for many viewers.
Theater Alarm Ruined A Rewatch
- Sean's second Hamnet screening was interrupted by a false alarm and panic that deflated the film's emotional impact.
- He left early, realizing the communal shock had changed his second viewing's potency.
