“Hamnet” Claims Toronto Film Festival’s Coveted People’s Choice Award
TORONTO – Agnès patron’s animated short To the Woods and Zacharias Kunuk’s feature Uiksaringitara (Wrong Husband) were among the winners announced today at the 48th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), but it was Maggie O’Farrell’s historical drama Hamnet that secured the festival’s most prestigious prize: the people’s Choice Award. The film, directed by Chloe Lamford, captivated audiences and critics alike, marking a significant win ahead of its wider release.
The People’s Choice Award is widely regarded as a bellwether for Oscar success, having previously recognized films such as 12 Years a Slave, Nomadland, and Green Book before their Academy Award triumphs.This victory positions Hamnet as a strong contender during awards season, bringing increased visibility to O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel and Lamford’s adaptation. The film explores the life of Shakespeare’s son, hamnet, and the grief that followed his untimely death, offering a poignant portrayal of family and loss.
Beyond the top prize, TIFF unveiled a range of awards recognizing international cinematic achievement. Lucía Aleñar Iglesias’ forastera received the FIPRESCI Prize, while Jitank singh Gurjar’s In Search of The Sky (Vimukt) earned the NETPAC Award. Sophy Romvari’s Blue Heron was named the Best Canadian Finding, with an honourable mention going to Kunsang Kyirong’s 100 Sunset.
The Best Canadian Feature Film Award went to Uiksaringitara (Wrong Husband), with Min Sook Lee’s There Are No Words receiving an honourable mention. Valentyn Vasyanovych’s To The Victory! claimed the Platform Award, and György Pálfi’s Hen received an honourable mention in that category. Agnès Patron’s To the Woods won the Short Cuts Award for Best Animated Short Film.