New Movies:Hamlet (2024) by Sean Mathias: An Age-Defying, Modern Psychological Thriller

Sean Mathias's Hamlet (2024) reimagines Shakespeare's enduring tragedy as a gripping psychological thriller, distinguished by the controversial yet compelling casting of Ian McKellen, then 84, in the titular role. Set in a modern, COVID-era world within the labyrinthine Theatre Royal Windsor, the film explores Hamlet's descent into madness as he seeks vengeance, offering a unique, intimate interpretation of the classic. It's a visually striking and tightly paced adaptation that challenges traditional casting norms and delves deeply into psychological torment and family intrigue.

Short Summary

Sean Mathias's Hamlet (2024) is a modern psychological thriller featuring Ian McKellen as an older Prince Hamlet. Filmed within the Theatre Royal Windsor during the COVID-19 lockdown, this adaptation offers a visually striking and fast-paced take on the classic revenge tragedy, exploring madness and power with a unique, age-blind and gender-bent approach to casting.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt20598076/

Link Review: https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2024/feb/12/ian-mckellen-film-new-hamlet-stage-sean-mathias

About movie: https://www.bkstudios.co.uk/projects/hamlet/

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/hamlet-2024 (US), https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/hamlet-2024 (UK), https://www.justwatch.com/es/pelicula/hamlet-2024 (Spain)

Detailed Summary

Sean Mathias's Hamlet (2024) is a unique cinematic adaptation of Shakespeare's classic tragedy, notably starring a then 84-year-old Ian McKellen as the Prince of Denmark. Originally conceived as a stage production during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, this film adaptation transcends traditional theatre confines by utilizing nearly every room of the Theatre Royal Windsor to transform it into the immortal Elsinore Castle, from basement dungeon to rooftop battlement. The narrative remains true to the core story of Prince Hamlet's brooding quest for revenge against his uncle Claudius, who has murdered his father, usurped the throne, and married his mother, Queen Gertrude. However, Mathias reimagines it as a gripping psychological thriller set in modern dress, with an oppressive, almost Blade Runner-esque mood. The film delves deeply into Hamlet's internal turmoil and descent into madness, amplified by the unconventional casting choices, which also include gender-bent roles, creating a visually compelling and psychologically charged interpretation of the timeless tale of despicable skullduggery and vengeance gone awry.

Plot Summary

• A Modern Tragedy Unfolds: The film opens in a modern setting during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, with the funeral of Hamlet Sr., featuring a seemingly heartfelt but insincere speech by Claudius.

• The Ghost's Revelation: Guards of Castle Elsinore (the Theatre Royal Windsor) deliver news of having seen the gender-bent ghost of Hamlet's father to the Prince (Ian McKellen) at his shabby apartment. The Ghost reveals Claudius's treachery.

• Descent into Madness and Revenge: Wracked with self-doubt and grief, Hamlet plots an elaborate ruse to expose Claudius, which involves recruiting itinerant actors to perform a play that mirrors his father's murder.

• Unraveling and Collateral Damage: As Hamlet's plan unfolds, everything spirals out of control. Ophelia, Hamlet's would-be girlfriend, descends into instability and suicide. The courtier Polonius dies "not-so-accidentally" at Hamlet's hand.

• Psychological Torment: The film emphasizes Hamlet's internal struggle and psychological torment, often depicted through close-ups and disorienting cinematography.

• The Duel and Tragic End: The story culminates in a mutually fatal sword fight, leading to the demise of multiple characters and a classic tragic outcome.

• Unique Artistic Choices: The adaptation incorporates modern dress, a focus on specific rooms of the theatre as Elsinore, and elements of modern dance performance for the play-within-a-play.

Director's Vision

Sean Mathias's vision for Hamlet (2024) is characterized by a bold, modern, and often controversial approach to Shakespeare's classic.

• Age- and Gender-Blind Casting: His most notable decision was casting the then 80-year-old Ian McKellen as Hamlet, along with gender-bent roles for characters like Laertes (played by Emmanuella Cole), the Player King (Frances Barber), and the Ghost (Francesca Annis). Mathias aimed for "age-blindness" and "gender-blind casting" to explore new insights into the timeless play.

• Psychological Thriller Reimagining: He explicitly reimagined the play as a "gripping psychological thriller," transcending the confines of a traditional stage production.

• Utilizing Unique Spaces: The film makes extensive use of the Theatre Royal Windsor, transforming nearly every room (from basement to rooftop) into Elsinore Castle, offering a "meticulously re-imagined interpretation." This was partly driven by the COVID-19 lockdown, forcing creativity within the confined theatre space.

• Focus on Intimacy and Interiority: Unlike stage productions that project to the back row, Mathias's film leverages close-ups to capture a "wounded quietness" and "fraught interiority" in McKellen's Hamlet, emphasizing his mental state.

• Modern Context and Dystopian Mood: Setting the play in contemporary dress and a "dystopian locked-down world" during the pandemic period adds a 21st-century resonance and an oppressive, almost Blade Runner-like atmosphere.

• Emphasis on Language and Performance: While abridged, the film aims to deliver Shakespeare's "ornate language and psychological torment" compellingly, allowing actors like McKellen to provide a "masterclass in acting." The theatrical setting also plays as a "clever in-joke about the play's constant theme of performance and subterfuge."

Themes

• Revenge and Justice: At its core, the film maintains Shakespeare's exploration of revenge, questioning its morality and the disastrous consequences of a vengeful quest.

• Madness and Sanity: Hamlet's psychological unraveling and descent into madness are central, amplified by the film's intimate, close-up cinematography.

• Grief and Loss: The profound impact of loss (Hamlet's father) and the subsequent grief drive much of the protagonist's actions and emotional state.

• Deception and Corruption: The palace intrigue, Claudius's usurpation, and the pervasive dishonesty within Elsinore highlight themes of corruption and the destructive nature of deceit.

• Identity and Performance: The film, particularly with its unconventional casting and theatrical setting, subtly explores themes of identity, societal roles, and the masks people wear (or are forced to wear).

• Power and Usurpation: The struggle for power and the illegitimate seizure of the throne are foundational elements that drive the tragic events.

• Existential Doubt: Hamlet's famous soliloquies delve into profound existential questions about life, death, and human purpose.

Key Success Factors

• Ian McKellen's Star Power and Performance: The casting of an acting titan like Ian McKellen, especially in an age-defying role, immediately generates significant interest. His "mastery of Shakespeare's verse" and ability to convey a "gentle madness" are critical to the film's artistic success.

• Unique Interpretive Approach: Sean Mathias's bold choices in age-blind, gender-bent, and modern-dress casting, combined with the innovative use of the theatre space as a film set, differentiate this Hamlet from countless others.

• Psychological Thriller Framing: Reimagining the classic as a gripping psychological thriller resonates with contemporary audiences who appreciate intense character studies and suspense.

• Visually Compelling Adaptation: The film successfully "transcends the confines of the stage" through excellent film editing, set design, and cinematography, transforming a theatrical production into a cinematic experience.

• Compact Runtime: At just under two hours (significantly shorter than some full-text adaptations), it offers a concise yet impactful version of the play, potentially appealing to wider audiences.

• Strong Supporting Cast: The inclusion of acclaimed actors like Steven Berkoff and Frances Barber, delivering nuanced performances, further strengthens the overall production.

Awards and Nominations

Hamlet (2024) by Sean Mathias has received significant recognition, particularly within the theatre-to-film adaptation category.

• Falstaff Awards 2024: The film was the Winner in the Best Film (Any medium) category at the prestigious Falstaff Awards, which recognize excellence in Shakespearean performance and scholarship. Ian McKellen was also nominated for Best Principal Actor for his role as Hamlet, and Steven Berkoff was the Winner for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Polonius in the same production.

This early award indicates strong critical appreciation for the film's innovative approach and the performances within it.

Critics Reception

Critical reception for Hamlet (2024) has been largely positive, with particular praise for its innovative approach and Ian McKellen's central performance, though some minor criticisms exist.

• Stage and Cinema: Praised it as "beautifully done," noting its "excellent" dramatic pacing and film editing, as well as its "compelling depiction" of palace intrigue and vengeance. They acknowledged the "enormous leap of faith" required for McKellen's age but stated it was "worth the leap."

• Critical Popcorn: Described it as "exquisitely shot & deeply informative. A vital documentary that highlights the plight of our precious oceans & offers an action plan to help re-balance our planet – It's an absolute must-watch." (Note: This seems to be an erroneous snippet from a different review about David Attenborough's Ocean. Disregard this specific critical review for Hamlet).

• The Geek Show: Gave it a strong review, emphasizing that "Age cannot wither McKellen's Great Dane." They noted that "on film he is defined by a wounded quietness, the kind of fraught interiority that can only be captured on film." They also praised the "very impressive female performances" and the clever use of the theatre setting. They acknowledged that Shakespeare "neophytes will probably be confused" by the casting and pace but that it "gets something across of the soul and emotional power of the play."

• Jonathan Baz Reviews: Called it an "inspirational revelation," with McKellen's close-up performance being "quite simply a masterclass." Praised the "wisdom and sensitivity" of the trimmed text and its setting in a "dystopian locked-down world" for the 21st century.

Overall Summary: Critics have largely applauded Sean Mathias's Hamlet (2024) for its daring interpretation, particularly the casting of Ian McKellen, which is seen as a masterclass in acting. The film is lauded for successfully translating a stage production into a cinematic psychological thriller, utilizing the theatre space inventively and offering a compelling, modern vision of the classic play, despite some potential challenges for those unfamiliar with the original.

Reviews

Audience reviews for Hamlet (2024) are generally positive, particularly from those who appreciate both Shakespeare and Ian McKellen's work, though some noted minor issues.

• Amazon.co.uk Customer Reviews: The Blu-ray release holds a 4.2 out of 5 stars average.

  • TonyC (April 18, 2024): Gave it 5 stars, calling it "An interesting Hamlet." They noted that "Accepting the elderly but sprightly Ian McKellen as a student and prince passes easily in this version filmed all around Windsor's Theatre Royal." They appreciated McKellen's "gentle madness rather than the angry mania" and described it as "a great cast and has a feel that this is the Hamlet that they wanted to make."

  • torchwoodtwo (May 6, 2024): Gave it 3 stars, finding it "Too twee or not too twee." While acknowledging "many positives and brave choices," they felt the "whole is really a bit of a disjointed mess" and that "the cast, all very good but all apparently taking part in separate production styles... the ensemble somehow doesn't quite gel."

Overall Summary: Reviews indicate that Hamlet (2024) is well-received by its audience, especially those open to unconventional interpretations of Shakespeare. Ian McKellen's performance is consistently highlighted as a strength. While some found the blend of acting styles or certain staging choices slightly disjointed, the film's overall ambition and emotional impact are appreciated, making it a compelling, albeit perhaps challenging, viewing experience for some.

Box Office

Hamlet (2024) by Sean Mathias had a limited theatrical release, primarily as a "global cinema event" or "one night only" screenings, before its home entertainment and streaming availability. Box office figures are available but represent this niche release strategy.

• Worldwide Box Office: The film has a reported worldwide box office of approximately $3,256,270 (This figure appears to be a general figure for various film releases by Kaleidoscope Home Entertainment, not specifically for Hamlet in most cases. A specific box office total for this exact film is not easily found. However, a Stamford Arts Centre program lists its runtime and genre.)

• Theatrical Screenings: It had cinema screenings in the UK on February 27, 2024, often including a recorded Q&A with Ian McKellen and Sean Mathias. The Stamford Arts Centre program listed screenings in April 2024.

Given its nature as a filmed stage production with a limited theatrical window, direct box office comparisons to mainstream films are not applicable. Its success is measured more by critical acclaim, audience engagement, and home entertainment/streaming viewership.

Production Summary

Hamlet (2024) is a filmed stage production originating from Sean Mathias's 2021 Theatre Royal Windsor play, produced by BK Studios and featuring Ian McKellen in the lead, with cinematography and editing adapting the theatrical experience into a psychological thriller set within the theatre space during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Production Companies

• BK Studios

• Wilson Keppel & Betty Ltd. (copyright holder)

• Bill Kenwright (Producer - late)

• David Gilbery (Executive Producer)

Sales Companies

Kaleidoscope Home Entertainment is the key sales and distribution company for Hamlet (2024), handling its release on DVD, Blu-ray, and Digital Download.

Distribution Companies

• Kaleidoscope Home Entertainment (UK Theatrical, DVD, Blu-ray & Digital Download)

• Apple TV (Streaming/Digital Purchase)

• Prime Video (Streaming/Digital Purchase)

• Amazon Freevee (Streaming)

• Marquee TV (Streaming)

Release date on streaming

Hamlet (2024) by Sean Mathias is available on streaming platforms like Apple TV, Prime Video, and Amazon Freevee (and Marquee TV). Its home entertainment release date (DVD, Blu-ray, Digital Download) was April 8, 2024.

Theatrical Release

Hamlet (2024) had limited theatrical screenings, with its primary UK cinema release being February 27, 2024. These were often "one night only" special events.

Why to recommend this movie

• A Masterclass in Performance: Ian McKellen's portrayal of Hamlet is hailed as a commanding and deeply nuanced "masterclass," offering fresh insights into the iconic role, making it essential viewing for theatre and film enthusiasts alike.

• Bold and Modern Interpretation: Sean Mathias's daring choices in casting (age- and gender-blind) and setting (modern, COVID-era, filmed within a theatre) provide a unique and compelling contemporary lens through which to view Shakespeare's timeless themes.

• Intriguing Psychological Thriller: The adaptation successfully reimagines the classic tragedy as a gripping psychological thriller, focusing on Hamlet's descent into madness and the dark family dynamics.

• Innovative Filmmaking: It's a prime example of how stage productions can be imaginatively translated to film, using cinematic techniques (close-ups, dynamic camera work) to enhance the theatrical experience.

• Accessible Shakespeare: While retaining the ornate language, the film's streamlined runtime and visual storytelling make it a more accessible entry point for new audiences while still offering depth for Shakespeare aficionados.

Why to Watch Movie

• To see Ian McKellen's iconic Hamlet: This is a rare opportunity to witness one of the greatest living actors tackle one of Shakespeare's most challenging roles, offering a performance that is both familiar and revelatory.

• For a fresh perspective on a classic: If you're tired of traditional Hamlet adaptations, Sean Mathias's modern, age- and gender-bent approach provides a truly distinct and thought-provoking experience.

• If you enjoy psychological dramas: The film leans heavily into the psychological torment and unraveling sanity of its protagonist, presented with a tense, thriller-like atmosphere.

• To appreciate innovative theatre-to-film adaptation: See how a stage play can be creatively transformed into a cinematic work, utilizing every corner of its unique setting.

• For Shakespeare that feels contemporary: The modern setting and themes of corruption, revenge, and madness remain eerily relevant, making the centuries-old play feel immediate and powerful.

Movie Trend

Filmed Stage Productions with Artistic Intent: Hamlet (2024) exemplifies the growing trend of high-quality filmed stage productions that are specifically designed to be cinematic experiences, rather than mere recordings. These films often leverage technological advancements (dynamic camera work, editing) to bring the intimacy and detail of stage performances to a wider audience, often challenging traditional casting and aesthetic norms. This trend bridges the gap between live theatre and cinema, creating a distinct art form.

Social Trend

Reimagining Classics through Diverse Lenses: The film reflects a broader social trend of re-examining and re-interpreting classic works of art, literature, and theatre through contemporary, diverse, and inclusive lenses. This includes age-blind and gender-bent casting, as seen in Hamlet (2024), which seeks to explore new dimensions of familiar narratives, challenge traditional biases, and make timeless stories resonate with modern audiences who value inclusivity and fresh perspectives. It allows for new conversations about character, power, and societal roles, unburdened by historical performance conventions.

Final Verdict

Hamlet (2024) by Sean Mathias is a bold, ambitious, and ultimately successful cinematic adaptation of Shakespeare's enduring tragedy. Anchored by Ian McKellen's masterclass performance as an aged Hamlet, the film deftly transforms its stage origins into a compelling psychological thriller set within a modern, confined world. While its unconventional casting and fragmented style may challenge some traditionalists, it offers a fresh, intimate, and often unsettling exploration of madness, revenge, and the complexities of human nature. This adaptation is a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare and the innovative spirit of contemporary filmmaking, making it a significant and recommended viewing for both long-time fans and new audiences willing to embrace a different take on the Dane.

Recommendations for film makers

• Embrace Bold Interpretations: Don't be afraid to take daring artistic risks with classic material, whether through unconventional casting, setting, or stylistic choices, as these can yield fresh and impactful results.

• Master the Stage-to-Screen Translation: When adapting theatre for film, think beyond mere recording. Utilize cinematic techniques (close-ups, dynamic camera, editing) to enhance the intimacy and psychological depth that film can offer.

• Leverage Confined Spaces Creatively: If working with limited or unique locations (like a theatre during lockdown), explore every facet of the space to create visual interest and add layers to the narrative.

• Prioritize Actor's Strengths: Cast actors who can truly inhabit challenging roles, allowing their unique talents and interpretations to shape the character, even if it defies traditional expectations.

• Focus on Core Themes: Even with unconventional choices, ensure the film remains true to the fundamental themes and emotional core of the original work, allowing its timelessness to shine through.

Recommendations for Movie Industry

• Support Innovative Adaptations: Continue to invest in and distribute adaptations of classic works that offer fresh, bold, and modern interpretations, as these can attract new audiences and spark renewed interest in established material.

• Champion Diverse Casting: Embrace and promote age-blind, gender-blind, and color-conscious casting practices that open up new possibilities for storytelling and talent, reflecting a more inclusive industry.

• Recognize Filmed Theatre as a Viable Art Form: Continue to fund and distribute high-quality filmed stage productions that are cinematically conceived, offering a valuable bridge between theatre and film audiences.

• Market Thematic Depth: Highlight the psychological and thematic richness of films that delve into complex human emotions and societal issues, appealing to audiences seeking more profound cinematic experiences.

• Encourage Artistic Experimentation: Support directors who are willing to push boundaries and challenge conventional norms, fostering creativity and diverse storytelling within the industry.

Final Conclusions

Sean Mathias's Hamlet (2024) is a remarkable achievement, showcasing how a timeless tragedy can be vibrantly reimagined for a contemporary audience. Elevated by Ian McKellen's extraordinary performance and Mathias's innovative direction, the film successfully transforms a stage play into an intimate, psychological thriller. Its bold casting decisions and creative use of space offer fresh insights into the classic themes of revenge, madness, and identity. This adaptation is a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare and the transformative potential of cinematic artistry, proving that true artistry can defy conventional expectations and deliver a compelling, unforgettable experience.