Paul Mescal’s Upcoming Film After ‘Gladiator 2’ Sounds So Epic, It Could Finally Win Him an Oscar if Ridley Scott’s Giant Venture Misses the Mark
- Paul Mescal stars as Shakespeare in Chloé Zhao's film 'Hamnet.'
- Jessie Buckley joins Mescal as Shakespeare’s wife in the drama.
- 'Hamnet' is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel.
Paul Mescal is set to star as Lucius in the upcoming Gladiator sequel, but that’s not the only role he has on his plate right now. The Irish actor, who wowed audiences in Normal People, is gearing up for a major change. He is stepping into the shoes of William Shakespeare himself for Chloé Zhao’s upcoming film, Hamnet.
This isn’t just a regular role for Paul Mescal. He will be exploring Shakespeare’s personal world, revealing the powerful story of sadness and loss that inspired the famous writer’s immortal words.
Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley to Star in Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet Adaptation
Paul Mescal portrays William Shakespeare in a fictionalized story about the death of his only son, Hamnet, who inspired the name of one of his most famous plays, Hamlet. Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel Hamnet, on which the movie is based, imagines the life of Agnes, the wife of young playwright William Shakespeare, as his career takes off.
After their son Hamnet suddenly dies, the family is overwhelmed with grief. The story follows the emotional journey they face as they cope with their heartbreaking loss. Casting Mescal as the English playwright is a brilliant choice. His talent for showing deep emotions in a real and subtle way is perfect for this role. Speaking with Vogue earlier this year, Mescal said:
That book – it’s just devastating. I can’t wait. If I told a younger version of myself that this would be [shooting] this year, I wouldn’t believe it.
With Chloé Zhao, who won an Oscar for Nomadland, directing, the excitement is sky-high. Zhao, known for her touching and resonant stories, co-wrote the film with O’Farrell. Joining Mescal is the incredibly talented Jessie Buckley, who will play Shakespeare’s wife, Agnes. She raises the family during his absence.
They were previously cast together in The Lost Daughter, and fans are excited to see them team up again for this intense drama. Both actors were named Screen Stars of Tomorrow, with Mescal in 2020 and Buckley in 2017.
Hamnet Could be a Potential Oscar-Winning Role for Paul Mescal
With Gladiator 2 on the horizon, many are predicting a breakout year for Paul Mescal. But if Ridley Scott’s epic sequel falls short of expectations, Hamnet could be the film that finally earns him that coveted Oscar. Playing Shakespeare is a dream role for any actor. It’s an opportunity to show their range, explore deep emotions, and possibly create a lasting legacy.
If the 28-year-old can capture the full depth and tragedy of Shakespeare’s life, he could be on the fast track to Hollywood’s top awards. The film is among several high-profile productions currently filming in the UK, including Yorgos Lanthimos’ Bugonia and Marvel’s The Fantastic Four.
Hamnet is set to hit theaters in the US and worldwide in 2025. Also, catch Paul Mescal in Gladiator II, arriving in cinemas on November 22, 2024.
