Hamlet

When it was announced that Zeffirelli had picked Mel Gibson to play his Hamlet, the critics went mad. Understandably so; the very idea of having Mad Max play the role of the weak indcisive protagonist of what might be the most famous play in the English language seemed outrageous. It is therefore a surprise that he carries it off as well as he does. The reason for the apparent insanity of choosing Gibson to lead the impressive cast seems to be that Zeffirelli wanted Hamlet played differently.

In this version, Hamlet seems far from weak On the contrary, he is played as angry, energetic and frustrated. Mostly, this is quite effective. It certainly makes one more sympathetic to the character. Unfortunately, there is one particular moment for which angry, energetic and frustrated prove disastrously inappropriate: the famous soliloquy. It has to be said that while Gibson swashbuckles his way pretty successfully through most of the film, he makes a real mess of 'To be, or not to be?'

As a whole, the film is highly enjoyable. Apart from that one unfortunate moment, the acting is superb. (Most of the cast are, after all, taken from the ranks of the RSC.) If you have never seen Hamlet, this film offers an enjoyable introduction to the play. If you are familiar with the play, the new light shed on the main character by this version is worth taking on board.

Review by Catherine Monelle
Taken from EUFS Programme 1994-95