Nia DaCosta’s ‘Hedda’ Reimagines Ibsen’s Classic with Bold Choices

Nia DaCosta’s latest film, ‘Hedda’, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and is now available for streaming on Prime Video. This audacious retelling of Henrik Ibsen’s 1891 play focuses on a woman’s struggle for power and freedom within a stifling societal framework. Set in a lavish home adorned with modern art, including a large Cubist portrait, the film opens with the protagonist, Hedda Gabler/Tesman, being interrogated by investigators following a shooting incident.

The film marks DaCosta’s fourth feature and follows her acclaimed work on ‘Candyman’ (2021) and ‘The Marvels’ (2023). Starring Tessa Thompson as Hedda, the narrative revolves around her dissatisfaction with her marriage to the uninspired academic, George Tesman, played by Tom Bateman. The young couple returns from their honeymoon, ready to host a grand party in their expensive new home, which underscores their financial struggles. George’s ambition to secure a well-paying university position hangs in the balance, with the outcome resting on the opinions of influential guests, including Professor Greenwood.

As the evening unfolds, the arrival of Dr. Eileen Lövborg, portrayed by Nina Hoss, adds tension to the narrative. Eileen is not only a former lover of Hedda but also a rival for the same academic post. With a manuscript that challenges the conventions of sexuality, Eileen represents a threat to Hedda’s plans for social advancement. This complex relationship highlights the film’s exploration of gender and societal roles, with DaCosta’s adaptation offering a modern twist on Ibsen’s themes.

A Bold Adaptation with Modern Relevance

DaCosta’s adaptation moves the setting from Ibsen’s Norway to 1950s England, emphasizing Hedda’s quest for freedom in a repressive postwar society. The film’s set design, crafted by Cara Brower and Stella Fox, reinforces this shift, with the Tesman estate serving as a character in its own right. The grand staircase, adorned with peacock wallpaper, symbolizes power and beauty—qualities that echo Hedda’s own aspirations.

The film cleverly employs color symbolism, particularly the pervasive use of red, which foreshadows the violence that unfolds. Hedda’s possession of a gun, a legacy from her father, serves as a constant reminder of her moral ambiguities. The early scenes depict her practicing with blanks, setting the stage for the film’s climactic moments.

DaCosta’s innovative character choices, particularly the gender swap of Eileen, deepen the narrative. By transforming Eilert Lövborg into a female character, DaCosta highlights the complexities of Hedda’s motivations and desires. In an interview with RogerEbert.com, DaCosta expressed her commitment to portraying complex Black women on screen, noting that societal expectations often complicate their narratives.

A Complex Portrait of Ambition and Identity

Tessa Thompson’s performance as Hedda captures the character’s internal struggles and moral dilemmas. Hedda embodies a woman grappling with societal pressures while yearning for autonomy. As the illegitimate daughter of a general, she navigates a world dominated by white privilege, longing for both acceptance and power.

DaCosta’s reinterpretation of Ibsen’s titular character serves to liberate Hedda from traditional allegiances, allowing her to pursue her own interests. As one character asserts, “Before you were domesticated, you were fire,” encapsulating Hedda’s fierce spirit and ambition.

In ‘Hedda’, Nia DaCosta delivers a daring and thought-provoking adaptation that resonates with contemporary audiences. The film challenges viewers to consider the complexities of identity, power, and societal expectations, all while maintaining the essence of Ibsen’s original work. With its engaging performances and striking visuals, ‘Hedda’ is a significant addition to the modern cinematic landscape.