Hamlet (2000)

Pop-Culture Pleaser

By Yahoo! Shopping User  May 1, 2001

A disclaimer: You should know Hamlet well in order to truly enjoy this film. Many sections have been cut or edited, and prior knowledge of what these cut sections contribute or take away from "Hamlet" is key in understanding this version's interpre...tation.That said, "Hamlet 2000" is an intriguingly modern take on the legendary tragedy. The theme of pop-culture that runs throughout the movie is very well executed. Ethan Hawke (Hamlet) gives an adequate performance that could use more dramatic choices, but Sam Shepard shines as Hamlet Sr., and Leiv Schreiber turns in the best performance of the film as a driven L'artes.Sadly, Julia Stiles (Ophelia) falls short of- well, let's just say she falls short. She solicits neither passion or pity from the audience, even though she is given one of the most piteous roles in all of Shakespeare.Bill Murray (Polonius), Kyle MacLachlan (Claudius), and Diane Venora (Gertrude) all perform admirably enough.What struck me about this film, however, was not the acting, but the thought behind this interpretation. For those bored with the traditionalism of Brannagh- here's "Hamlet 2000." Read more Less