Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Nia DaCosta’s Hedda Opens as Critics Hail Tessa Thompson in Bold Ibsen Reboot

Early reviews spotlight Tessa Thompson’s commanding turn in Nia DaCosta’s stylized, single‑night reimagining.

Overview

  • Hedda began its theatrical rollout in the U.S. on October 22, reaches U.K. cinemas on October 24, and streams on Prime Video starting October 29.
  • Tessa Thompson’s performance is drawing widespread acclaim and is being discussed as a potential Best Actress contender.
  • The adaptation relocates Hedda Gabler to 1950s England, gender‑swaps Eilert into Eileen (Nina Hoss), and centers a trio of women navigating race, sexuality, and social power.
  • DaCosta condenses the drama into one evening at a decadent country‑house party, with reviewers highlighting energetic visuals, lush production and costume design, and a propulsive tone.
  • Critical response trends positive, though some reviews argue the stylization and novelty can dilute emotional cohesion; the ensemble features Thompson, Hoss, Imogen Poots, Tom Bateman, and Nicholas Pinnock.