To be, or not to be, that is the question. The famous line from Hamlet is suitable for reviewing a new movie based on the age-old play. After all, the question most people will ask is do we really need another adaptation of arguably Shakespeare’s greatest creation. The answer isn’t easy – yes or no. However, and you need to look a little deeper into it before deciding.
Riz Ahmed stars as the brooding Hamlet. The story is the same one we’ve seen many times before however. Hamlet then wrestles with his conscience as he tries to find proof that his uncle was responsible for his father’s murder. Unfortunately for him, the longer he waits, the more tragedy unfolds around him.
Ahmed is stunning in the role, and a treat on screen. He not only reads Shakespeare’s lines like many actors before him, but he gives them life. He shows just how truly a gifted actor he is. The cast around him are just as good though, including Morfydd Clark as Ophelia, Art Malik as Claudius, Joe Alwyn as Laertes and Timothy Spall as Polonius. Together they give the tragedy the life it misses in many big screen adaptations. It’s also unique seeing the majority of roles plays by non-white actors, which hasn’t been done film wise.
So to answer the question, Aneil Karia’s version of Hamlet is to be. It’s too good to pass up, even though it’s a story we’re seen many times before.
- Rated: Unrated
- Genre: Drama
- Directed by: Aneil Karia
- Starring: Art Malik, Joe Alwyn, Morfydd Clark, Riz Ahmed, Sheeba Chaddha, Timothy Spall
- Produced by: Allie Moore, James Wilson, Michael Lesslie, Riz Ahmed, Tommy Oliver
- Written by: Michael Lesslie, william shakespeare
- Studio: JW Films, Left Handed Films, Waypoint Entertainment
