"To be or not to be..." is no longer the question. Now, it is to see or not to see Franco Zefferelli's 1990 Version of Hamlet.
Shakespeare wrote this infamous play during his third period, more commonly known as his dark period. He could never have imagined how popular this play was to become.
True to the period it was written in Hamlet is a dark, or tragic play. It follows one mans journey from normalcy to insanity because of the unfaithfulness of his incestuous mother after his father's murder. In this remake of the classic Franco Zefferelli turns a morose and somewhat confusing play into a vibrant, clear and dare I say, upbeat production that everyone should watch.
I was a bit hesitant at first to watch the movie because Mel Gibson was playing the lead of Hamlet. I did not think that he'd be believable in that role, but he really proved me wrong. His interpretation of the character gave me an understanding of the plot that I didn't have after merely reading the play and watching the Kenneth Branagh version of the play. To say that his film cleared up a few things would certainly be an understatement. He played the role perfectly.
Another wonderful actor who must be mentioned is Helena Bonham-Carter as Ophelia. She gave the term crazy a whole new definition. A character that goes over the hill in the midst of the film must be able to forget about everyone else and only play on his or her reason of instant insanity. She does this so well that by the end one doesn't know where Ophelia ends and Helena begins.
The film did have a few shortcomings such as the director's choice of season and his butchering of the play. Yet, it's true that sacrifices must be made for the benefit of the contemporary audience. No one in today's day and age would like to sit through a complete, uncut, three-hour version of Hamlet. Therefore Zefferelli's actions can be forgiven and even, thanked. His choice of season though, remains an issue. Had he done it in winter, there would be added symbolism that was not seen in the movie. Other than that, Zefferelli made good choices from the actors to the music to the choreography of the duels.
In an overall view of Franco Zefferelli's 1990 version of Hamlet starring Mel Gibson, it was phenomenal. It had all of the qualities of a modern day hit with none of the redundant story lines. To call this film a must-see isn't giving it enough credit.
9 out of 17 found this helpful