After director Chloé Zhao called “cut” on the emotionally charged final scene of “Hamnet,” the atmosphere turned electric as Rihanna’s “We Found Love” echoed through a remarkable replica of the Globe Theater near London. The celebration began with the stars—Paul Mescal portraying the young Will Shakespeare, Jessie Buckley as his spirited wife Agnes, and Joe Alwyn as her brother, Bartholomew—leading their fellow cast and crew members in dance. Hundreds of extras clad in Renaissance attire reveled in a spirited Elizabethan celebration.
Zhao fondly recalled, “Wigs were lost” amidst the frenzied dancing, comparing the release of energy to euphoric experiences such as love and psychedelic journeys. “You get that from dancing,” she added, embodying tranquility as she relaxed on her green couch in her Los Angeles home surrounded by lush succulents. The director’s warm demeanor was matched by her attention to her rescue pet, a mixed breed named Foxy.
The filming process was marked by regular raves, with Zhao capturing these moments and compiling a 27-minute supercut for the wrap party. Mescal noted how liberating these experiences were, attributing the sense of vulnerability fostered by Zhao to a transformative creative atmosphere. He remarked, “She’s asking for her actors to be incredibly vulnerable, and she gives you that confidence by being vulnerable herself.”
Zhao’s innovative and compassionate direction profoundly impacted the production of “Hamnet,” a film that navigates the heartbreaking story of Shakespeare’s 11-year-old son’s death, which serves as the backdrop for the creation of “Hamlet.” Her unique filmic vision earned her praise from industry heavyweights like Steven Spielberg and Sam Mendes, who recognized her emotional depth and intuitive filmmaking style. Spielberg conveyed his admiration, stating that every choice Zhao makes is rooted in her feelings rather than mere intellect. He likened her presence to that of Agnes, a character deeply connected to the natural world in “Hamnet,” encapsulating the essence that Zhao brings to her craft.
The heartfelt interactions and innovative practices on set not only shaped “Hamnet” into an emotionally riveting film but also created lasting bonds among the cast and crew, reflecting the powerful synergy that Zhao fosters as a filmmaker.