In an insightful conversation, celebrated director Chloé Zhao shared her artistic evolution, detailing how a period of reflection following her work on the Marvel film 'Eternals' ultimately led her to helm the critically lauded 'Hamnet'. Zhao's narrative encompasses her journey from crafting intimate independent features to navigating the expansive world of a superhero blockbuster, revealing the challenges and breakthroughs that have shaped her distinctive vision. Her latest endeavor, 'Hamnet', stands as a testament to her renewed creative spirit and unique storytelling methods.
Chloé Zhao's Cinematic Odyssey: From Indie Roots to Oscar-Nominated 'Hamnet'
On a crisp January day in 2026, within the vibrant atmosphere of The Hollywood Reporter's Los Angeles offices, the globally recognized filmmaker Chloé Zhao, at 43 years old, offered a candid recounting of her remarkable career trajectory. Zhao, a Chinese writer, director, producer, and editor, has, with merely five feature films—including 'Songs My Brothers Taught Me' (2015), 'The Rider' (2017), and the Oscar-winning 'Nomadland' (2020)—cemented her status as one of her generation's most revered cinematic artists. Having previously made history as only the second woman, and the first woman of color, to secure the Best Director Oscar for 'Nomadland' (which also claimed Best Picture), she now finds herself nominated for multiple Oscars for her 2025 film, 'Hamnet', including Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay. 'Hamnet' itself is a strong contender for Best Picture, alongside nominations for its lead actress, Jessie Buckley, and for achievements in casting, costume design, original score, and production design. During this engaging discussion, Zhao thoughtfully explored her migration to America and her burgeoning passion for filmmaking, particularly her profound connection with the American West. She delved into her early career’s practice of casting non-professional actors and contrasted this with her more recent collaborations with established stars in projects like 'Eternals'. A pivotal point in her discourse centered on the contrasting experiences of directing the modest $5 million independent film 'Nomadland' and the monumental $236 million Marvel production, 'Eternals', in quick succession. This intense period precipitated a four-year sabbatical from filmmaking, nearly causing her to forgo 'Hamnet'. Ultimately, Zhao revealed her decision to embrace 'Hamnet', outlining the innovative directorial techniques she employed on set. She also reflected on the overwhelmingly positive reception of the film, from glowing critical reviews and its triumph at the Toronto International Film Festival's audience award to a significant endorsement from cinematic icon Jane Fonda at the recent Palm Springs International Film Festival's awards gala. Her insights shed light on the profound influence these experiences have had on her artistic journey and her unwavering commitment to compelling storytelling.
Chloé Zhao's journey provides a compelling lesson for artists in all fields: true creative growth often stems from introspection and the courage to pivot. Her ability to transition from the intimate scale of 'Nomadland' to the grand spectacle of 'Eternals', and then to find renewed purpose and unique expression in 'Hamnet', showcases an exceptional adaptability and unwavering artistic integrity. It reminds us that even in the face of career-defining projects, taking time for self-discovery can lead to the most authentic and impactful work, ultimately enriching both the artist and their audience.
