Pop Culture Happy Hour Hamnet
Dec 1, 2025
Critic Bob Mondello, a seasoned NPR film commentator, dives into the emotional depths of the film Hamnet, which dramatizes the life of William Shakespeare and his wife. He discusses how the heart-wrenching grief from their son’s death inspires the creation of Hamlet. The conversation also critiques Paul Mescal's subtle performance and the film's focus on Agnes over Shakespeare, steering clear of typical biopic tropes. Listeners are treated to diverse reactions and insights on Chloé Zhao's directing style and the film's rich production design.
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Powerful Emotional Reaction At Festival
- Bob Mondello describes sobbing uncontrollably during Hamnet's final scene at a festival screening.
- He admits feeling manipulated but says the emotional payoff still worked for him.
Divergent Audience Reactions
- Aisha Harris left TIFF feeling cold while the rest of her theater sobbed throughout the film.
- This highlights how audience emotional response to sentimental filmmaking can vary dramatically.
Craft And Performance Drive Emotion
- Stephen Thompson positioned himself between extremes, crying five times while admiring craft.
- He credits Jessie Buckley's performance and Max Richter's score for the film's emotional pull.
