Hamnet’s Jessie Buckley Shares Her Tantric Workshop Experience and Chemistry with Paul Mescal
Jessie Buckley, known for her compelling performances, recently shared insights into her experience filming *Hamnet*, directed by Chloé Zhao. This adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel features Buckley in the role of Agnes, the wife of William Shakespeare. During filming, she focused on tapping into profound emotional experiences, including engaging with a dream coach to enhance her portrayal.
Exploring Grief Through Acting
In *Hamnet*, Buckley captures the essence of grief in a riveting manner. She emphasizes that her character represents a spectrum of emotions, highlighting that grief is complex. Buckley articulates, “Grief and love isn’t one color. There’s rage in there. There’s broken pieces of glass.” This portrayal aims to resonate with audiences and allow them to confront their own experiences of loss.
Tantric Workshop with Paul Mescal
To establish a strong connection with her co-star Paul Mescal, Buckley participated in a tantric workshop. This experience was intended to foster “kinetic trust” between the two characters. Buckley humorously noted that while some might misconstrue the nature of the workshop, it was actually very professional. “We didn’t consummate it,” she remarked, clarifying the workshop’s intent.
A Passion for Theatre and Music
Outside of film, Buckley has cultivated a deep appreciation for theatre. She studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and debuted in *The Tempest* at the Globe Theatre. Her affinity for Shakespeare’s language is evident, as she believes it remains relevant today, stating, “We need big language for right now.”
Additionally, her background in musical theatre also influences her acting. Buckley recorded an album in 2022 and cites iconic performances from Dame Judi Dench and Nina Simone as those that shaped her approach to expressing emotion.
Upcoming Projects
Buckley is set to collaborate again with director Maggie Gyllenhaal on *The Bride!*, a modern reimagining of *Frankenstein*. In this project, the female lead is given more agency compared to previous adaptations. This reflects Buckley’s interest in exploring themes of self-identity and the layers of womanhood through her roles.
Reflections on Collaboration
Buckley discusses the importance of chemistry between co-stars, particularly her bond with Mescal during *Hamnet*. Their teamwork allowed them to explore their characters’ emotional landscapes freely. She noted that this partnership created a deeper understanding of their roles.
Insights into Human Experience
Buckley aims to develop an experimental theatre group in the UK, echoing her desire to innovate within the storytelling landscape. She believes in the importance of creating a community for artists to experiment and discover new methods of expression.
Concluding Thoughts
Jessie Buckley’s journey in *Hamnet* and beyond reflects her commitment to exploring the depths of human emotion. Through her roles and future projects, she continues to inspire audiences with her passion for storytelling and her dedication to authentic performance.
