Chloé Zhao’s exploration in her latest project, “Hamnet,” delves deep into the intricacies of nature, death, and creativity. This film, based on the book by Maggie O’Farrell, centers on Shakespeare’s wife and the poignant themes surrounding their son’s death. Zhao’s cinematic journey began while driving through New Mexico, en route to the Telluride Film Festival, where she received a call from Amblin, Steven Spielberg’s production company.
Connection with Actors and the Source Material
Zhao initially hesitated about the project due to her lack of personal connection to the story. However, a chance meeting with actor Paul Mescal at the festival changed her perspective. Mescal, who rose to prominence through “Normal People,” expressed his enthusiasm for the book. His passion inspired Zhao to reconsider her initial doubts about being the right fit for the film adaptation.
The Invitation of Nature
Reading “Hamnet” left a profound impression on Zhao. She found O’Farrell’s vivid internal landscapes compelling, resonating with her own creative process. Zhao admires how O’Farrell encapsulates complex emotions through her writing—an experience that has influenced Zhao’s artistic vision.
- Key Themes:
- Fear of death—an element fueling creativity.
- The role of nature in spirituality and self-reflection.
- Emotional connections to the settings and landscapes.
Filming Locations and Creative Insights
Unlike her previous films focused on the American West, “Hamnet” was shot in the lush forests of Wales and Herefordshire. The contrasting landscapes, especially the forest setting, symbolize a deeply feminine aspect of nature, encouraging a reflective state in Zhao’s filmmaking approach. She emphasizes that the serenity of nature fosters a sense of safety and spirituality crucial to the crafting of her films.
A Profound Emotional Journey
Zhao’s artistic process included a poignant visit to a forest in Wales, which contrasted sharply with her recent experiences in Kyiv, Ukraine. This juxtaposition stirred deep emotions within her. While in Ukraine, she captured images of destruction, moving to the tranquil environment of Wales allowed her to confront her fears about mortality. This emotional resonance greatly influenced how she wishes to represent themes of life and death in “Hamnet.”
Nature as a Character
In “Hamnet,” Zhao envisions nature as a pivotal character within the narrative. She believes that the natural world collaborates dynamically with the film. The dialogue between the film’s imagery and the environment creates a symbolic representation of her themes. At the heart of this journey lies the belief that love transcends death—a core principle that Zhao aims to convey through her adaptation.
Overall, Chloé Zhao’s exploration in “Hamnet” reflects her personal and artistic growth. It intertwines profound themes, visual storytelling, and the emotional weight of nature, leading to a rich cinematic experience. This film promises to be a tribute to both love and loss, captured through Zhao’s unique lens.
