Hamlet is the prince of Denmark. His father has just died and before the funeral meats were cold his mother marries his uncle. His father's ghost returns to tell him of a murder most foul. Now hamlet must decide what to do about this, and how.
This version of the play is well done however Hamlet is up for interpretation and everyone has a favorite.
The DVD itself has very little goodies other than the play.
According to the pamphlet that comes with the DVD the prints of this film were contractually ordered to be destroyed. So, we are lucky to have this interpretation.
It is easy to see why ratings are all over the spectrum. First, this is a film of a play. Therefore, it is neither a film nor a play. Secondly, they use rehearsal clothes and minimum trappings (or distractions). Now if you enjoy the novelty of the presentation style, your next hurdle is trying to understand Richard Burton's speaking style for the first 20 minutes or so. What may appear to be a long viewing time is actually a pared-down version of Hamlet which leaves out many subtleties.
It is intriguing to see the actors in the play and see how far they came. If you do not take the time to analyze, then this really is a good version, and you will find yourself kibitzing.
This version of the play is well done however Hamlet is up for interpretation and everyone has a favorite.
The DVD itself has very little goodies other than the play.
According to the pamphlet that comes with the DVD the prints of this film were contractually ordered to be destroyed. So, we are lucky to have this interpretation.
It is easy to see why ratings are all over the spectrum. First, this is a film of a play. Therefore, it is neither a film nor a play. Secondly, they use rehearsal clothes and minimum trappings (or distractions). Now if you enjoy the novelty of the presentation style, your next hurdle is trying to understand Richard Burton's speaking style for the first 20 minutes or so. What may appear to be a long viewing time is actually a pared-down version of Hamlet which leaves out many subtleties.
It is intriguing to see the actors in the play and see how far they came. If you do not take the time to analyze, then this really is a good version, and you will find yourself kibitzing.