I should preface this with a confession: I am an English major who has never read any Shakespeare beyond some sonnets. I just don’t feel myself drawn to that type of language, although I have very much enjoyed productions of Shakespeare that I’ve seen. Especially when the setting has been modernized.
So, when the film Hamnet was released to rave reviews, I felt the need to experience it. I very much appreciated the performances, and Paul Mescal, but the movie overall was, to me, a snooze fest. I wanted more dialogue, more conversation and less moody speculation.
Truth be told, I feel asleep for a few moments and don’t think I missed a thing.
Because so many people I trust and respect loved the film, I decided to give the book that inspired the movie, a listen. Well, I got 17% finished with the audiobook before putting it aside in favor of a more trashy title that has the ability to hold my attention in a way that Hamnet has not yet managed to do.
I did renew the audiobook, giving myself 3 weeks to reconsider continuing, and possibly completing, the story. Have you ever felt out of step with the accolades bestowed on a book or film?I know that taste is very much an individual thing, but I’d love to hear from fans of the film and/or book. My question is not to be or not to be, it’s why did so many people love this work?
If you loved this book, can you share your reasons? Should I stick with it? Did you see the movie? What did you think?
DelSo 