Review of Hamlet (Original Version)

Introduction

Hamlet is one of Shakespeare’s most famous and influential plays and one of the most filmed. Most recently it was given a modern New York sheen with Ethan Hawke in 2000, and a lush grandeur with Ken Branagh in 1996.

The role of Hamlet is a challenging one and one that most male actors yearn to play. Even Mel Gibson had a bash at Hamlet in 1990. However, 40 years previously, Lawrence Olivier was the most respected actor of his day and he was given the opportunity to film Hamlet. He did not disappoint, providing possibly the definitive screen Hamlet and helping to make the definitive celluloid Hamlet. No disrespect to the actors above, who all (even Gibson) give credible performances, but Olivier acts them all off screen. Nobody has been able to capture the vulnerability and strength of Hamlet like Olivier and I doubt if anyone will.

So, we have a great performance and a great film, but is it a great DVD? Sadly not.

Video

The 4:3 black and white image is, unfortunately, blemished by pretty much every flaw imaginable – hairs, dirt, sparkles, blotches, grain. It is noticeable and annoying for the first 10 or so minutes. After that, you (well, I) stop noticing the image quality and start concentrating on the feature itself. It doesn’t excuse the poor quality but you can live with it.

Visually, this Hamlet is a very traditional theatrical piece, with mostly static sets and the focus on the actors. That said, Ellsinore Castle is suitably brooding and mist is well used to heighten the atmosphere of menace. The ghost, though, couldn’t be less menacing.

Audio

The mono soundtrack is subject to all manner of his and crackles. However, it doesn’t really matter. Shakespeare’s sparkling dialogue comes across clear and true.

The music by William Walton is appropriately sonorous and portentous. Occasionally, it comes across to stridently and threatens to upset the mood but, generally, it is just what the bard called for.

Features

None. There is a thing billed “Trailer” on the main menu but instead of a nostalgic teaser you get a dull introduction to the Carlton Collection.

Conclusion

Great play. Great performances. Decent movie, if a bit too theatrical for today’s tastes perhaps. The DVD, though, is of poor quality. The main thing in its favour (other than the quality of the feature) is the budget price.