'Hamnet' claims People's Choice Award at TIFF, sparking Oscar buzz
- At the Toronto International Film Festival, the People's Choice Award was won by Chloé Zhao's film 'Hamnet,' which tells the story of William Shakespeare's family.
- This film explores the emotional turmoil following the death of Shakespeare's son and has attracted significant attention at the festival.
- Winning this award positions 'Hamnet' as a strong contender for the upcoming Academy Awards, potentially following in the footsteps of past winners.
In Canada, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) announced its winners, with Chloé Zhao's film 'Hamnet' receiving the prestigious People's Choice Award. This award has historically been a significant indicator of potential success in the Academy Awards, as many past winners have gone on to be nominated for Best Picture. Zhao's drama, which centers around William Shakespeare's life, particularly the grief following the death of his son Hamnet, has resonated deeply with audiences. The emotional impact of the film was highlighted during its screenings, contributing to its favorable reception. The film, adapted from Maggie O'Farrell's novel, stars Paul Mescal as Shakespeare and Jessie Buckley as Agnes Shakespeare. This poignant narrative explores themes of grief and inspiration, suggesting that the loss of their child may have influenced Shakespeare's creation of 'Hamlet.' Critical acclaim at TIFF and the Telluride Film Festival has substantially raised the film's profile leading up to its theatrical release scheduled for November 27, 2025. In addition to the main People's Choice Award, TIFF also announced 12 other awards. The International People's Choice Award was given to 'No Other Choice,' directed by Park Chan-wook, a film that has also garnered excitement due to its compelling storytelling and production. The festival also recognized several notable films in various categories, showcasing the diverse range of cinematic talent presented at the event. The audience's engagement with the films reflects broader sentiment towards storytelling exploring complex emotions and themes. As the festival concluded, the recognition of 'Hamnet' not only emphasizes its artistic merit but also sets the stage for a competitive awards season ahead. With strong performances and a deeply moving narrative, 'Hamnet' is likely to re-enter the conversation around the Academy Awards, especially considering Zhao's previous successes with 'Nomadland,' which similarly gained traction from its recognition at TIFF. The collective excitement from festival-goers and critics alike indicates strong potential for the film's future success in the industry.