Modern Interpretations

Each interpretation of Hamlet strives to keep in line with the original play while also keeping an appeal to a modern audience. While there are many different productions of Hamlet each has its own unique alterations that allow varied experiences in watching. In each modification of the four different productions there is a noticeable diversity in the deliverance of the lines, setting, and emotion.

Two of these interpretations were created in 1990, beginning with the performance of Kevin Kline as Hamlet, also directed by Kline. Kline delivers Hamlet’s famous soliloquy with not a word out of place, staying true to Shakespeare’s original play perfectly. Kline’s setting is one of stark modern coldness, with little use of scenery or props. Viewers feel the torment afflicting Hamlet as he stands alone reasoning out the options he can act out in this vacant surrounding.

Also filmed in 1990 is Mel Gibson’s Hamlet directed by Franco Zeffirelli. Closely adapted from the original play, this version uses ornate props, costume, and setting to show the richness of the royal family. While this version does not keep every line in it, there is little discrepancy to be found in its approach. Brilliantly executed emotion pours from the screen as Hamlet confronts his mother in her elaborate chamber while Polonius listens in hiding. Tension of the dire situation is evident as Gibson parades around the room cursing his mother and her actions.

Filmed in 1996 and directed and starring Kenneth Branagh as Hamlet audiences get a true delight. Each line of the original play is used in this adaptation and allows the audience the full play in movie form. Beautiful setting is used in this version similar to the manner in Gibson’s. Differing from Gibson’s, this version uses light in scenery and props as Ophelia goes mad, lifting a little of the heavy pressure that the plot places on its watchers.

Finally, filmed in 2009 and directed by Gregory Doran, David Tennant plays the troubled Hamlet. Like its predecessors, this version stays very true to the original text of the play, including many, but not all lines. Not much in the way of props is used in the scene upon the ramparts as Hamlet awaits the arrival of the ghost. Given a modern flair is the manner of costume used in this version. All characters wear clothing that would be readily available to the time it was filmed. Also, part of the scene appears to be witnessed through a surveillance camera, suggesting it was being watched in a control room part of the time.