4 New Films to Watch This Week: “Hamnet,” “Giant,” “Oh, Canada,” and “People We Meet on Vacation”
New films to watch,this week; the big screen brings us a mix of poignant dramas and lighthearted rom-coms. From the emotional depth of Hamnet to the light entertainment of People We Meet on Vacation, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the must-see films hitting theaters:
1. Hamnet: A Tragic Story of Love and Loss
Hamnet stars Jessie Buckley as Agnes Shakespeare, exploring the profound grief of a mother after the loss of her son. Directed by Chloé Zhao, this adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel delves into the emotional and strained relationship between William and Agnes, portraying a raw and deeply moving account of their grief. Buckley’s performance is one of the highlights, capturing the heartache with extraordinary depth. Critics are calling it a powerhouse portrayal, not to be missed. Rating: ★★★★★
2. Giant: A Story of Boxing and Brotherhood
In Giant, Pierce Brosnan takes on the role of Brendan Ingle, the legendary trainer of boxer Prince Naseem Hamed. Directed by Rowan Athale, the film explores the relationship between the two men, focusing on Ingle’s influence on Hamed’s career. While Brosnan’s performance is as charming as ever, Amir El-Masry’s portrayal of Hamed shines, bringing authenticity to the character. Though the story lags at times, the performances keep it afloat. Rating: ★★★☆☆
3. Oh, Canada: A Quiet Reflection on Life and Legacy
Oh, Canada, directed by Paul Schrader and starring Richard Gere, follows Leonard Fife, a terminally ill documentary filmmaker reflecting on his life in Montreal. Adapted from Russell Banks’s novel Foregone, this film is a meditation on legacy, regret, and the passage of time. While it lacks the biting provocations of Schrader’s previous works, its somber tone and thoughtful narrative still offer a compelling watch. Rating: ★★★☆☆
4. People We Meet on Vacation: A Rom-Com with a Twist
Based on Emily Henry’s bestseller, People We Meet on Vacation follows Poppy and Alex as they navigate a decade-long, will-they-won’t-they romance. While the film tries to capture the essence of the book, the chemistry between the leads, Emily Bader and Tom Blyth, fails to ignite. The comedic potential of supporting actors like Alan Ruck and Jameela Jamil feels underutilized. It’s a decent watch for rom-com fans, but doesn’t quite hit the mark. Rating: ★★☆☆☆
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re in the mood for a historical drama like Hamnet, an inspiring sports story with Giant, or a bittersweet reflection on life in Oh, Canada, these films offer a range of emotions and experiences. For those who love rom-coms, People We Meet on Vacation is worth a watch, though it doesn’t quite live up to expectations. Check them out this week at your local theater!