Jessie Buckley is receiving widespread acclaim for her role as Anne Hathaway, the mournful wife of William Shakespeare, in an upcoming film adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel. Set in 1596, the story explores the profound grief experienced by Anne after the tragic loss of their son, Hamnet, which is imagined to influence Shakespeare’s creation of the iconic play Hamlet. Alongside Buckley, Paul Mescal takes on the role of Shakespeare, with Emily Watson portraying his mother, Mary.
In another notable cinematic venture, a poignant docufiction narrates the last hours of Hind Rajab, a five-year-old Palestinian girl killed in Gaza alongside family members in 2024. The film creatively incorporates the real audio of her desperate calls for help to the Palestinian Red Crescent, providing a harrowing portrayal of the events.
Philippa Lowthorpe’s film, inspired by Helen Macdonald’s bestselling memoir, delves into the healing relationship between a bereaved individual and training a goshawk. Claire Foy stars, bringing an authentic touch by personally learning to handle the bird, aiming for a unique perspective on grief and reconnection with nature.
Korean director Park Chan-wook introduces a gripping narrative with his adaptation of Donald Westlake’s satirical horror-thriller, The Ax, which delves into the dark psychological ramifications of unemployment and societal pressures through the story of a man contemplating mass murder. The film navigates themes of family dysfunction and fragile masculinity, creating a complex character study.
Another intriguing release chronicles the infamous “Saipan incident” involving Irish football legend Roy Keane. The film tells the story of Keane’s explosive clash with Ireland’s manager, Mick McCarthy, before the 2002 World Cup, raising questions about patriotism and personal conviction within team dynamics.
Emerald Fennell, known for her successes with Saltburn and Promising Young Woman, is set to adapt Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights. With Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, the film sparks discussions regarding casting choices around race and authenticity in classic adaptations.
In a completely different genre, Bradley Cooper returns to comedy with a film exploring the personal and comedic struggles of a man navigating a divorce while discovering his hidden talent for stand-up comedy. Inspired by the life of British comic John Bishop, the film promises a bittersweet reflection on relationships.
Jodie Foster immerses herself in another psychological mystery as an American psychoanalyst in Paris who suspects that one of her patients, who purportedly committed suicide, was in fact murdered. The narrative takes a twist as a hypnotherapist regresses her into a past-life dream state, unraveling complex connections.
Paolo Sorrentino’s latest offering presents a contemplative take on grief interwoven with surreal elements, showcasing a haunting exploration reflective of both personal and societal layers. The film’s impeccable visual style accentuates its narrative depth.
Audiences can also anticipate a musical biopic of Michael Jackson, directed by Antoine Fuqua, featuring Jaafar Jackson in his acting debut. Set to cover Jackson’s rise to fame while tactfully navigating his controversial later years, the film is shaping up to be a significant portrait of the King of Pop.
Moreover, a sequel to the celebrated fashion comedy, The Devil Wears Prada, is in the works, promising an engaging return to the world of high fashion with familiar faces like Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway.
With a mix of serious dramas, biographical narratives, and explorations of grief through various mediums, this upcoming slate of films is set to offer a diverse array of stories that resonate with audiences on multiple levels. Each film seems to hold a mirror to society, grappling with heavy themes while aiming to evoke a sense of reflection and emotional connection.