I liked Mike Almereyda's version of Hamlet was the best because I like the modern take on the play. It's more interesting to have the story take place in a modern setting. By not sticking to the setting of the play, the director has to be more creative with how he presents the same exact themes and lines from the play. This allows the viewer to really see what the director is thinking. I also liked how Hamlet's soliloquy was not only in isolation, as in the play, but also presented as his thoughts instead of being read aloud. Another aspect of this scene that i enjoyed was how Hamlet is looking at old family videos while his soliloquy is being heard. The videos display the roots of all of Hamlet's feelings about his father's death and his mother marrying his uncle. Also, the fact that Bill Murray is in the film just made my decision that much easier.
Words, words, words...
14 years ago
I must disagree elmonator and say that the modern setting instead took away from the film. Having the corporations and cars rather than the castles and horses caused a lack of authenticity in Almereyda's film. Having an authentic setting provides viewers with a clear image of the actual period in which the tragedy was written in and adds to the appreciation.
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with you both. One one hand, the challenge of placing Hamlet in the 21st century is worth noting. I did enjoy Hawke's delivery of the soliloquies. On the other hand, "castles and horses" do help to visualize the traditional setting of the play. (Nick the Champ= setting of the Zefirelli version was 16 centrury not 18th)
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