The Best Film Version of Hamlet and Why

When it comes to the interpretation and adaptation of William Shakespeare's classic play Hamlet, there is rarely a consensus among critics and audiences. Each film version offers a unique perspective, some capturing the essence of the story more fully, while others delve into the psychological depth of the characters. In this article, we will explore why two particular film versions stand out: Lawrence Olivier's 1948 adaptation and Kenneth Branagh's full-text version. We will also discuss the often-discussed play Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead and its connection to Hamlet.

Why "Considered" and By Whom

Regardless of the merits or shortcomings of any adaptation of Hamlet, it is often said that there is no "best" or "considered" version. This phrase, when used in the passive voice, implies a lack of consensus. However, for the purpose of this discussion, we will highlight two films that critics and enthusiasts tend to favor: Lawrence Olivier's 1948 film and Kenneth Branagh's full-text version.

Lawrence Olivier's 1948 Film Adaptation

When it comes to adapting Hamlet, one cannot overlook the classic 1948 film directed by Lawrence Olivier. Olivier, a renowned actor and director, made a significant decision to cut some parts of the play and offer a more psychological interpretation of the character. His concept of Hamlet as a man who cannot make up his mind is a compelling one. Despite the cuts, the film remains a masterpiece, with its stunning black-and-white cinematography and Olivier's first-rate performance.

While I appreciate the performance and the visual elegance, I do believe that Greig Dirrassov's adaptation of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead starring Gary Oldman and Tim Roth is also worth mentioning. This film offers a different perspective on the classic characters and adds a layer of depth that cannot be found in the original play. It’s a playful and insightful take on the characters that makes the audience question their roles in the story.

Kenneth Branagh's Full-Text Version

Kenneth Branagh's full-text version of Hamlet deserves a special mention. Unlike Olivier's more pared-down adaptation, Branagh's film includes all the original text. This is particularly useful for those who want to experience Hamlet in its entirety. Each character is well-cast, making the story more immersive.

Despite the longer runtime, Branagh's approach is more comprehensive, capturing the political and social elements of Shakespeare's play. However, one cannot deny that Olivier's psychological interpretation and his mastery of the material make it a more delicate and nuanced exploration of Hamlet. The film's pacing and editing are superb, and the sense of claustrophobia created through the cinematography and art direction adds to the suspense and complexity of the story.

The Role of Adaptation in Capturing Hamlet’s Essence

There is a popular belief that no film can possibly capture the essence of Hamlet. This sentiment is echoed by many critics and scholars who argue that the complexity and depth of Shakespeare's work cannot be fully realized in a cinematic format. However, I believe that certain works transcend their medium and become more than what they are made of.

Works such as Bach's B Minor Mass, Michelangelo's The Last Judgment, and the Bill of Rights are examples of pieces that have become iconic beyond their original context. Similarly, Hamlet stands out for its profound and intricate narrative. It is a challenging work that invites multiple interpretations and analysis. Filmmakers like Olivier and Branagh have contributed significant interpretations, each adding their unique perspective to the story.

Lawrence Olivier's adaptation, in particular, is a testament to the power of cinematic interpretation. His focus on the psychological depth of the character, rather than a literal translation of the text, allows audiences to explore Hamlet's inner turmoil in a way that a text can sometimes obscure. The film is a masterclass in visual storytelling, utilizing stunning cinematography and a haunting score by William Walton to create an atmosphere that is both beautiful and terrifying.

The film captures the essence of Hamlet not by adhering strictly to the text but by interpreting it in a way that resonates with the audience. Olivier’s performance, the art direction, and the haunting score all work together to create a profoundly moving and thought-provoking film. This is the greatest Hamlet adaptation because it isn't merely an adaptation of Shakespeare's play; it is Olivier’s interpretation of the psychological aspect of Hamlet through the medium of film.

While no film can capture every nuance of Hamlet, these two adaptations—Olivier's 1948 version and Branagh's full-text version—offer valuable insights into the play. Each film version provides a unique lens through which to view the story, making Hamlet a rich and enduring tale that continues to captivate audiences more than 400 years after its creation.

Whether you watch Olivier's psychological masterpiece or Branagh's comprehensive version, Hamlet remains a work of art that challenges, inspires, and moves us in profound ways. Its enduring legacy speaks to the timeless nature of Shakespeare's prose and the power of cinematic interpretation.