In a recent episode of The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, Chloé Zhao, a celebrated Chinese filmmaker, shared her journey from indie films to blockbuster productions and back again. Zhao, known for her acclaimed works including Nomadland and Eternals, is currently nominated for multiple Academy Awards for her latest film, Hamnet, including best director and best adapted screenplay. The film has also secured nominations for best picture, acting, casting, costume design, original score, and production design.
Chloé Zhao’s Unique Filmmaking Journey
At 43, Zhao has made a significant impact on the film industry with just five feature films: Songs My Brothers Taught Me (2015), The Rider (2017), Nomadland (2020), Eternals (2021), and Hamnet (2025). She made history as only the second woman and the first woman of color to win the best director Oscar for Nomadland, which also won the best picture award.
During her conversation at The Hollywood Reporter’s Los Angeles offices, Zhao discussed her early career and the choices that have shaped her work. She often cast individuals with no previous acting experience in her films, a strategy that provided authenticity to her storytelling. As her career progressed, she began working with established stars, such as Jessie Buckley, who plays a lead role in Hamnet.
The Impact of ‘Nomadland’ and ‘Eternals’ on Zhao
After the success of her $5 million indie film Nomadland and the transition to the $236 million Marvel blockbuster Eternals, Zhao experienced what she describes as a “mid-life crisis.” This period led her to step back from filmmaking for four years, during which she contemplated her next steps, including nearly passing on the opportunity to direct Hamnet.
Ultimately, Zhao decided to take a leap of faith by accepting the project. She employed unconventional directing techniques while filming Hamnet, striving to cultivate a unique atmosphere on set. The film has garnered considerable attention, receiving rave reviews and winning the audience award at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film’s acclaim was further amplified by a notable endorsement from the film icon Jane Fonda at the recent Palm Springs International Film Festival awards gala.
Through her reflections, Zhao illustrated how her personal and professional experiences have shaped her approach to filmmaking. She aims to create stories that resonate deeply with audiences, drawing on her own journey and the complexities of life.
