Directed by Chloé Zhao, 2025, UK/USA, Rated PG‑13, 126 minutes, English

Adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel, Hamnet tells the deeply moving story of William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his wife Agnes (Jessie Buckley) as they confront the devastating death of their young son Hamnet—the tragedy that would later inspire Hamlet. Emphasizing emotional intimacy and human truth over grand theatrics, the film weaves lush period detail with a contemporary sensibility. Hamnet won the People’s Choice Award at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, an honor often seen as an indicator for Oscar recognition. The Guardian called it “a profoundly affecting portrait of grief and love, led by powerhouse performances from Buckley and Mescal,” underscoring Zhao’s ability to make the Bard’s world resonate viscerally with modern audiences. This title and date are subject to change.

Munson Film Series is sponsored by M&T Bank and by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.