Chloé Zhao Knows How to Make You Cry: The ‘Hamnet’ Director Digs Deep on Her Surefire Oscar Contender

Key Takeaways:

• “Hamnet” is considered a surefire Oscar contender
• Chloé Zhao once led a nomadic lifestyle in her thirties
• Zhao found it difficult to be still and face herself
• The director insists “Hamnet” needed both depth and maturity
• IndieWire originally published this interview on November 26, 2025

The Director’s Perspective

Chloé Zhao, known for her unique storytelling, has long captivated audiences with her ability to evoke deep emotion on-screen. In an interview with IndieWire, she shared a revealing glimpse into her life: “In my thirties, I was chasing the horizons like a nomadic person, because for me it was easier to keep running.” This open admission sets the stage for a new creative chapter, centered on her film “Hamnet.”

Why ‘Hamnet’ Needed Depth

Zhao’s latest project is already generating significant awards buzz. Described by some as a “surefire Oscar contender,” “Hamnet” required the director to slow down and face herself more directly. “It’s difficult for me to sit with myself,” Zhao confessed, emphasizing that a story of this magnitude demanded “depth” and “maturity.” This shift illustrates her commitment to reaching emotional truths in storytelling.

Reflecting on a Nomadic Past

Before she began work on “Hamnet,” Zhao’s lifestyle was defined by constant movement. She admits that remaining in one place felt daunting, forcing her to confront personal challenges she had long avoided. By grappling with those struggles, Zhao found a creative spark that fuels her current film.

Progress Toward an Oscar Contender

Though details of the film remain limited, early discussions frame “Hamnet” as a major player in the upcoming awards season. It continues Zhao’s tradition of weaving human experiences into visually striking narratives, expanding on themes she has explored in previous work—this time with a keener sense of gravity and reflection.

Looking Ahead

As audiences await more information, one thing is clear: Chloé Zhao embraces the hurdles of introspection to tell transformative stories. Her conversation with IndieWire provides a rare window into the personal evolution behind “Hamnet,” and it suggests that she might have yet another powerful journey to share on the big screen.