🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Lyndsey Turner
- Genre: Drama, Tragedy, Performance
- Release year: 2015
- Runtime (length): 3h 37min
- IMDb rating: 8.4/10 (2.5K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: N/A
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
A whiny prince can’t decide if he should kill his uncle, so everyone else just sort of dies around him while he thinks really hard.
🍿 National Theatre Live: Hamlet: Detailed Plot Synopsis
A Kingdom in Mourning and a Hasty Union
The production opens in the royal court of Denmark, where Prince Hamlet is deeply disturbed by the recent death of his father, King Hamlet. His grief is compounded by the hasty marriage of his mother, Queen Gertrude, to his uncle, Claudius, who has swiftly ascended to the throne. Hamlet views this union with profound disgust, feeling isolated and betrayed amidst the kingdom’s celebrations. His melancholic state and sharp intellect are immediately apparent as he grapples with the swift transition of power and affection. The lavish, somewhat chaotic setting of the initial scenes highlights Hamlet’s internal turmoil, setting the stage for the dramatic events to unfold.
The Ghost’s Revelation and Hamlet’s ‘Antic Disposition’
Hamlet’s loyal friend Horatio reveals that a ghost resembling the late King Hamlet has appeared on the castle ramparts. When Hamlet confronts the apparition, his father’s ghost reveals a horrifying truth: he was murdered by Claudius, who poured poison into his ear. The ghost demands revenge, tasks Hamlet with avenging his ‘most foul and unnatural murder.’ Overwhelmed by this revelation, Hamlet resolves to feign madness, adopting an ‘antic disposition’ to mask his true intentions and allow him to observe those around him. This theatrical madness is expressed in various ways, including playful and bizarre actions, such as dressing as a toy soldier, which serves as a potent visual metaphor for his fractured state and his strategy.
The Mousetrap and Polonius’s Demise
To confirm Claudius’s guilt, Hamlet devises a plan to stage a play within the play, ‘The Murder of Gonzago,’ which mirrors the circumstances of his father’s death. During the performance, Claudius’s visibly disturbed reaction confirms his culpability, sending him into a panic and revealing his dark secret to Hamlet. Following the play, Hamlet confronts his mother, Gertrude, in her private chambers. During their intense exchange, Hamlet accidentally kills Polonius, Ophelia’s father, who was hiding behind an arras, eavesdropping on their conversation. This impulsive act further complicates Hamlet’s path to revenge and sets in motion a tragic chain of events.
⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Hamlet (Benedict Cumberbatch): The grief-stricken Prince of Denmark who seeks revenge for his father’s murder by his uncle.
- Claudius (Ciarán Hinds): Hamlet’s treacherous uncle who murdered his own brother to usurp the throne and marry the Queen.
- Ophelia (Sian Brooke): Polonius’s daughter and Hamlet’s love interest, whose sanity tragically collapses amidst the unfolding events.
- Gertrude (Anastasia Hille): Hamlet’s mother and the Queen of Denmark, who hastily marries Claudius after her husband’s death.
- Polonius (Jim Norton): The verbose and meddling chief counsellor to King Claudius and father to Ophelia and Laertes.
- Horatio (Leo Bill): Hamlet’s loyal and steadfast friend, who remains a trusted confidant throughout the play.
- Ghost of Hamlet’s Father (Karl Johnson): The spirit who reveals to Hamlet that he was murdered by Claudius, compelling him to seek revenge.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Hamlet: “To be, or not to be: that is the question.” – Hamlet contemplates the nature of existence, death, and suicide, debating whether it is better to suffer or to end his life.
- Marcellus: “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” – Said to Horatio after the Ghost of Hamlet’s father appears, foreshadowing the corruption and decay within the royal court.
- Hamlet: “The play’s the thing wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the King.” – Hamlet reveals his plan to stage a play mirroring his father’s murder to observe Claudius’s reaction and confirm his guilt.
- Hamlet: “Frailty, thy name is woman!” – Hamlet utters this in despair and disgust over his mother Gertrude’s hasty marriage to Claudius after his father’s death.
- Horatio: “Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.” – Horatio bids a final, sorrowful farewell to Hamlet as he dies, expressing love and hope for his friend’s peaceful passing.
💰Box Office
- Budget: N/A
- Domestic Gross: $449,807
- Worldwide Gross: $5,298,933
💥 National Theatre Live: Hamlet Reviews
Personal Review
Okay, so I finally got around to watching ‘National Theatre Live: Hamlet,’ and wow, what an experience! I’m not always one for Shakespeare, but Benedict Cumberbatch as Hamlet? Absolutely captivating. He brought so much raw emotion and intensity to the role; you could practically feel his internal struggle through the screen. The scene where he confronts his mother in her chambers was just electrifying – the tension was palpable and truly gut-wrenching. And honestly, for a play that’s over three hours long, I was gripped the entire time. It really made me appreciate the genius of Shakespeare in a whole new way, especially with such a powerful modern interpretation.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of William Shakespeare’s plays, especially Hamlet.”
- “Devoted followers of Benedict Cumberbatch’s acting work.”
- “Those interested in experiencing high-quality stage productions on screen.”
- “Students or academics studying classic drama and theatrical adaptations.”
- “Viewers who appreciate intense psychological dramas with tragic themes.”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Themes of revenge and betrayal.”
- “Depiction of madness and mental anguish.”
- “Violence and stage combat (sword fighting).”
- “Accidental death and suicide.”
- “Family conflict and dysfunctional relationships.”
Professional Reviews
- The Stage: “Benedict Cumberbatch electrifies as the Dane, delivering a Hamlet both intensely vulnerable and wildly unpredictable. Lyndsey Turner’s direction breathes fresh life into Shakespeare’s classic, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant production that captivates from start to finish. A theatrical triumph not to be missed, it truly justifies the hype.
- The Guardian: “This ‘Hamlet’ is a masterclass in modern Shakespearean performance. Cumberbatch commands the stage with a nuanced intensity that makes every soliloquy a profound journey. The striking, yet functional, set design complements the raw emotional power of the cast, ensuring this National Theatre Live production will be remembered as a definitive interpretation.
Audience Reactions
Cumberbatch’s Hamlet is a revelation, making the ancient text feel profoundly modern and relatable.: Viewers universally lauded Benedict Cumberbatch’s powerhouse performance, noting his ability to convey complex emotions with incredible depth and making the character accessible. Many were also impressed by the striking set design and dynamic direction, which kept the lengthy play engaging and visually stunning throughout. The emotional weight of the tragedy truly resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impact.
Overall Consensus: A definitive and emotionally charged modern interpretation of Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet,’ highlighted by Benedict Cumberbatch’s extraordinary lead performance that resonates deeply with audiences.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “This production was the most financially successful of the National Theatre Live series, selling out quicker than major music concerts.”
- “Actors Benedict Cumberbatch (Hamlet) and Sian Brooke (Ophelia) previously worked together in BBC’s ‘Sherlock’ Season 4.”
- “The set design controversially included a large amount of real mulch covering the stage floor in the second act, which characters had to interact with.”
- “Director Lyndsey Turner used techniques like slow motion and freeze frames during Hamlet’s soliloquies to visually emphasize his inner turmoil.”
- “After curtain calls, Benedict Cumberbatch frequently used his platform to urge audiences to donate to Save The Children, highlighting the global refugee crisis.”
🖥️ How to Watch National Theatre Live: Hamlet?
National Theatre Live: Hamlet, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, is primarily available for digital purchase or rent on platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play. It is also often available through educational streaming services or specific digital collections related to the National Theatre at Home. For those who prefer physical media, DVD and Blu-ray versions may be available. Check your local digital storefronts for current pricing and availability, or explore the National Theatre’s official website for potential streaming options or event broadcasts.
🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed National Theatre Live: Hamlet, you might like these similar films:
- Hamlet (1996): Kenneth Branagh’s full-text, epic cinematic adaptation offers a direct comparison as another ambitious and visually grand take on the play.
- The Lion King (1994): This animated classic is famously a loose adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’, exploring themes of usurpation, revenge, and the burden of legacy.
- National Theatre Live: Frankenstein (2011): Also a National Theatre Live production starring Benedict Cumberbatch, offering another opportunity to see his acclaimed stage performance captured for cinema.
- The Imitation Game (2014): Stars Benedict Cumberbatch in another role requiring intense emotional depth and portrayal of a complex, brilliant, yet troubled protagonist.
- Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead (1990): A comedic, existential cult classic that expands on the world of ‘Hamlet’ by focusing on two minor characters, providing a unique and often humorous perspective on the tragedy.
🛒 National Theatre Live: Hamlet Related Products
- The Arden Shakespeare: Hamlet (Third Series): Considered one of the most authoritative editions, this annotated play text provides invaluable insights into Shakespeare’s language, historical context, and critical interpretations, enriching the viewing experience.
- National Theatre Live: Hamlet (DVD/Blu-ray): Own the critically acclaimed 2015 National Theatre Live production of Hamlet starring Benedict Cumberbatch on high-definition DVD or Blu-ray, for repeat viewing and an immersive home theatre experience.
- Shakespearean Insults Mug: A fun, high-quality ceramic mug featuring a collection of Shakespeare’s most creative and witty insults from various plays, including classics found in Hamlet.
- Benedict Cumberbatch: The Biography: An in-depth look at the life and career of the acclaimed actor Benedict Cumberbatch, exploring his journey through theatre, film, and television, and his approach to iconic roles like Hamlet.
🎧 Soundtrack
National Theatre Live: Hamlet features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
National Theatre Live: Hamlet with Benedict Cumberbatch is often available for digital purchase or rent on major platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play. It may also be accessible through the National Theatre at Home streaming service or educational licensing. Check these services for current availability.
The runtime for National Theatre Live: Hamlet is approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes. This includes a short intermission, typical for stage productions of this length.
Many viewers and critics highly recommend Benedict Cumberbatch’s performance as Hamlet, praising his intensity, physicality, and emotional depth. While directorial choices and some modernizations received mixed reviews, Cumberbatch’s portrayal is widely considered compelling and a significant draw for the production, making it a must-see for fans of the actor and Shakespeare.
National Theatre Live (NTLive) is an initiative by the Royal National Theatre in London that broadcasts live performances of its plays to cinemas and other venues worldwide. This allows a global audience to experience high-quality theatrical productions, featuring renowned actors, that might otherwise be geographically inaccessible. These broadcasts are often recorded and later made available for digital distribution.
As a filmed theatrical production of William Shakespeare’s classic play, the fundamental plot of Hamlet is widely known. While specific directorial choices or character interpretations might be new, the core narrative arc, including key events and the tragic ending, is consistent with the original play. If you are unfamiliar with the story and wish to avoid knowing plot details, the later sections of a summary would contain spoilers.
🔥 Bonus Content
When the late night chat takes a turn 😂 #NationalTheatre #BenedictCumberbatch #KobnaHoldbrookSmith
Ever wonder what a casual chat with Benedict Cumberbatch and Kobna Holdbrook-Smith looks like? This short, hilarious clip from the National Theatre offers a peek, and honestly, it just makes you appreciate their dynamic even more!
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