Watch Hamlet

Hamlet is one of William Shakespeare's most beloved plays that has been adapted into many films, including the 2000 version directed by Campbell Scott. This movie takes viewers on a dramatic journey through Denmark. Campbell Scott portrays the tormented Prince Hamlet, who is grappling with his father's mysterious death and his mother's hasty remarriage to his uncle, played by Jamey Sheridan.

From the opening scenes, the audience is immersed in the opulent, gothic world of Elsinore Castle. The film's haunting music and beautiful costumes transport viewers back in time to the Renaissance, where they will witness a tale of passion, betrayal, revenge, and madness. Hamlet's melancholic brooding is immediate, and we see him carrying his father's casket through the castle's corridors, followed by mourners, where he meets his mother and uncle Claudius for the first time since his father's passing.

Throughout the film, Scott delivers a powerful and intense performance. He adeptly portrays the emotions and motivations required of the free-spirited prince turned mentally unstable revenger who is plummeted into a whirlwind of confusion, sadness, anger, and love. Scott's delivery of Hamlet's eloquent dialogue is impeccably crafted and uniquely his own. His ability to convey Hamlet's inner turmoil and the complexity of his character creates an intense and thrilling viewing experience.

Blair Brown plays Gertrude, Hamlet's mother, who is caught up in a tangled web of deceit that threatens to engulf her. Brown's portrayal of Gertrude is both compelling and nuanced. We see her grappling with her loyalty to her husband, her son, and her new husband. She struggles to reconcile her duties as queen with her role as a mother, and her ultimate fate leaves viewers stunned.

Roscoe Lee Browne is the perfect choice for the role of the wise old courtier Polonius, who provides comedic relief throughout the film. His performance is both charming and intelligent, and he delivers some of the play's most memorable lines with wit and grace.

The cinematography is breathtaking, drawing the viewer into the animosity, debauchery, and drama that unfold on the screen. The film's mood is dark and intense, and the sets, which include grand halls, stone staircases, and dark cellars, add to the richness of the story. The movie demonstrates a true mastery of the art form of filmmaking, and the bold visuals create memorable and more profound viewing experiences that linger long after the credit rolls.

One of the most notable features of this adaptation is the restructuring of the script. The film opens with Hamlet carrying his father's casket and then transitions into a flashback of his father's murder. This narrative structure serves to set the cinematic tone for the rest of the story and provides a sense of dread and anticipation that is present throughout the film. Scene transitions and edits are also impeccably crafted and fluid, emphasizing the mood and emotions of the scene.

The supporting cast is excellent, with standout performances from Steve Rankin as the elder Hamlet, LisaGay Hamilton as Ophelia, and the previously mentioned Jamey Sheridan as Claudius. The haunting and memorable score by Patrick Doyle also deserves mention, adding another layer of emotion to this already complex and dramatic work.

However, this adaptation does not play out as a pure retelling of the play. The filmmakers chose to cut several scenes and narrative elements, including the famous graveyard scene and the introduction of Fortinbras, the prince of Norway. Instead, they focus on Hamlet's struggles with his grief, love, and loyalty, which make the story more relatable and poignant.

In conclusion, this adaptation of Hamlet is a must-see for anyone who loves Shakespeare or classic dramas. It is a stunning and well-crafted film that masterfully blends elegant visuals, emotive performances, and expert storytelling. Campbell Scott's unique vision for this film pays impressive homage to the iconic play, paying close attention to every detail of dialogue and the historical setting, creating an enthralling take on one of Shakespeare's greatest works.

Hamlet is a 2000 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 58 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 67.