Hamnet
NZ release: 15 January 2026
Sex scenes Rated on: 15 January 2026
What’s it about?
A fictional historical drama about William Shakespeare’s wife Agnes and their family life. The devasting death of their beloved 11-year-old son inspires Shakespeare to produce the play Hamlet which transforms their grief.
The facts
- Directed by Chloé Zhao (Nomadland and Eternals)
- Stars Jessie Buckley (Wild Rose) and Paul Mescal (Normal People and Gladiator II)
- English language
- Runtime: 125 minutes
- Based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel with the same name
Why did it get this rating?
This film was cross-rated by the Film and Video Labelling Body. You can find out more about cross-rating here.
Hamnet is a heartbreaking exploration of love, grief and the healing power of storytelling.
Content that may disturb
Scenes in the film are upsetting and emotionally intense. There are two harrowing childbirth scenes, one where the child born is not breathing but eventually lives. The agonising sickness and death of 11-year-old son Hamnet from the plague is emotionally distressing. The family’s anguish is raw and upsetting.
Family violence
A father repeatedly slaps, shoves and emotionally abuses his son until the boy grows older and fights back.
Sex scenes
Sex scenes show the couple’s passionate relationship with no explicit nudity.
Helplines:
The childbirth and death scenes could be upsetting for some viewers, especially for those who have had similar experiences. If you are struggling with what you have seen on-screen please reach out for help. If you or someone you know needs to talk:
Further information
Why are ratings and content warnings important for me and my whānau?
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