Hamnet Movie Review

Original Letterboxd review: https://letterboxd.com/raymanukay/film/hamnet/

Movie Review: Hamnet (2025)

Rating: ★★★⭐ (3.5 / 5)

Hamnet is a profoundly shattering look at the theoretical inspiration for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. While aesthetically beautiful and impeccably acted—specifically by a luminous Jessie Buckley and a strong Paul Mescal—it is an emotionally grueling experience that feels less like entertainment and more like a sit-down with pure grief.

THE PROS

• Masterclass performance by Jessie Buckley.
• Breathtaking Zhao-esque cinematography.
• A sincere, top-tier production.

THE CONS

• Borderline traumatic viewing experience.
• Strains under its own pretension.
• Lacks the balance of Shakespeare in Love.

The film captures the unimaginable pain of parental loss with such intensity that it almost feels like emotional manipulation. While I appreciate the film intellectually as one of the best-crafted works of 2025, I found myself angry at the filmmakers for the level of trauma inflicted on the audience.

"I equate watching Hamnet to being put into an emotional wringer without my full consent. I wanted to watch a movie—not lose sleep over a newly acquired, unwanted memory."

There is also a palpable air of pretension here. Chloe Zhao seems to suggest that Hamlet—arguably the greatest work of art in history—requires this harrowing backstory to be fully appreciated. It doesn't. By simplifying the play's origins into a singular tragedy, the film risks diminishing the very legacy it tries to celebrate.

The Verdict

An accomplished work that I simply cannot recommend. Hamnet delivers its message of grief with a sledgehammer. Watch at your own emotional peril.

READ THE ORIGINAL REVIEW ON LETTERBOXD

The Wrecking Crew Movie Review

Original Letterboxd Review:

https://letterboxd.com/raymanukay/film/the-wrecking-crew-2026/

Movie Review: The Wrecking Crew (2026)

An old-school action comedy, The Wrecking Crew features charismatic turns from the extremely likable duo of Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista.

The film is a welcome throwback to the "buddy cop" genre perfected by writer Shane Black, packed with homages to classics like Lethal Weapon, 48 Hours, and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. The plot follows two half-brothers investigating their father’s murder; along the way, they bicker, banter, and—as the title suggests—leave a massive body count and path of destruction in their wake.

Pure Crowd-Pleasing Fun

It’s a "feel-good" crowd-pleaser that keeps you smiling from start to finish. While the plot isn't complex or surprising, it doesn’t need to be; the film rests in the affable hands of two leads who are effortlessly entertaining. They are supported by a stellar cast, including Morena Baccarin, Frankie Adams, Jacob Batalon, Temuera Morrison, Stephen Root, and Claes Bang.

A Refreshing Change of Scenery

The Hawaiian setting is another major strength. Replacing dingy suburban alleyways with beautiful beaches is a refreshing change that surprisingly maintains the genre's sense of menace. Furthermore, the authentic representation of the Pacific Islander community gives the story a unique soul without ever feeling forced or preachy; it’s simply a natural part of the plot.

"Director Ángel Manuel Soto navigates familiar story beats with such confidence that they feel like a cozy blanket on a rainy day rather than tired tropes."

Director Ángel Manuel Soto doesn't reinvent the wheel, but he manages the film’s familiar ground with total confidence. I left the theater wanting more and sincerely hope this becomes a franchise. Please watch and recommend—I’d love to see another adventure with these two.

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Quick Verdict

• Genre: Action / Comedy
• Director: Ángel Manuel Soto
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 1/2 (3.5/5)
• Bottom Line: A must-watch for fans of 80s and 90s buddy-cop cinema.