Nia DaCosta’s ‘Hedda’ Reimagines Ibsen Classic for Modern Audiences

Nia DaCosta’s ambitious adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play, *Hedda Gabler*, has garnered significant attention in the entertainment industry. The screenplay is part of Deadline’s *Read the Screenplay* series, which highlights noteworthy scripts during awards season. DaCosta’s version, simply titled *Hedda*, transports the story to 1950s London, where Tessa Thompson plays the titular role of Hedda, a woman constrained by societal expectations.

In this reimagined narrative, Hedda finds herself embroiled in a night of scandal and jealousy at a lavish party. It is during this pivotal evening that she decides to take control of her life, challenging the norms that bind her. The film also features performances from Nina Hoss, Imogen Poots, and Tom Bateman. Following its initial awards-qualifying run, the film is set to be available on Prime Video at the end of October 2023.

DaCosta wrote the screenplay with Thompson in mind, building a strong creative partnership. Their connection was so profound that, by the third week of production, DaCosta affectionately referred to Thompson as “Hedda Thompson.” In an interview with Deadline’s Baz Bamigboye, DaCosta shared her reflections on the intense emotional journey the character embodies, stating, “I hadn’t realized how tense Hedda made me.”

Modern Themes and Representation

One of the significant changes in DaCosta’s adaptation is Hedda’s romantic interest, who is portrayed as a woman named Eileen, played by Nina Hoss. This alteration shifts the narrative dynamics and explores themes of identity and unfulfilled potential. DaCosta articulated her thoughts on this change, noting that if Hedda’s love interest were a woman, it would deepen the audience’s understanding of the character’s internal struggles. She stated, “If this character were a woman, you’d really understand the soul suffering of being brilliant and being ignored … being so much more than everyone else around you and being told, ‘No thank you,’ because you’re a woman.”

Nia DaCosta, known for her versatility in directing across genres—from superhero films like *The Marvels* to horror with *Candyman*—expresses her passion for adaptations. She describes herself as “a big theater head,” and emphasizes the timeless quality of classical works. “They’re meant to be torn apart and put back together. They’re meant to last forever,” she remarked, highlighting the relevance of these stories in contemporary society.

Awards and Recognition

Since its premiere, *Hedda* has resonated with audiences and critics alike. Tessa Thompson’s performance has earned her nominations, including for Best Actress at prestigious events such as the Golden Globes, Spirit Awards, and Gotham Film Awards. The film’s compelling narrative and strong performances have positioned it as a standout contender in this year’s awards season.

As *Hedda* prepares for its wider release, it exemplifies how classic literature can be reinterpreted to reflect modern sensibilities and challenges. DaCosta’s bold vision invites viewers to engage with Ibsen’s work in a new light, ensuring its legacy continues to resonate with future generations.