William Shakespeare is one of the most famous writers of all time. Centuries after his death, his works continue to be read, performed, and quoted all around the world. But what inspired some of his greatest plays?

That question is wrapped up in speculation about the man and his life away from the page. It was a question that rolled around in the mind of Maggie O’Farrell, led to her writing the novel Hamnet. It draws its name from Shakespeare’s son, who passed away just before the creation of possibly his greatest play. She wondered if the two things were linked.

That novel is the inspiration for a new movie, adapted by Chloe Zhao. The film focuses on Shakespeare’s life, his marriage, and the death of his son. It ties into how those events led him to write Hamlet, the play that continues to entertain, captivate, and inspire the world.

Before he was a famous writer, Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) was a man with a dream. That led him to Agnes (Jessie Buckely), and they fell in love. Despite the protest of their families, they were joined in marriage and started a family.

While Shakespeare’s work as a writer took him to the city, Agnes remained in the country on the farm, raising their three children. When The Plague came, Shakespeare’s family wasn’t immune. After falling ill, his son Hamnet (Jacobi Jupe), passed away. He passed shortly before his father could return home.

In his grief, he was lost. At the urging of his wife, he returned to London to continue his work. But rather than the comedies he’d authored before, he began working on a new tragedy. When word of the new play—titled Hamlet—spread back home, Agnes was forced to journey to learn what her husband was writing.

Zhao is a talented director with an eye for some stunning visuals. She crafted the Best Picture winner Nomadland, which had shots that stuck with me long after the film ended. She brought that same scope and beauty to The Eternals. While some didn’t enjoy the story, its visual style was undeniable.

She brings that same energy to this story. The production here is often quite captivating. There are some beautiful shots in the wooded sequences and throughout. I also enjoyed the look and the score of the film, which draws you in and builds this world.

All of it is in service of a story that’s a slow build. The early sequences feel a bit drawn out as you wait to see where it’s going. But it’s building to a beautiful emotional crescendo that plays out wonderfully in the Third Act. It ends up being a showcase, too, for the performers.

Mescal is a talented actor that has a few beautiful moments to shine. There is a scene following his appearance in the stage play that was beautifully haunting. But I really enjoyed Buckely, who carries a bulk of the film. Most of it is told through her eyes, and she does a wonderful job of conveying the depth of emotion.

Hamnet is a gorgeous and well-acted film. It’s worth checking out and is one of my favorite of the year so far. It figures to be a big player in year-end awards and will be a soaring, emotional experience.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.