I’ve experienced quite a few takes on Hamlet over the years, with numerous actors bringing Shakespeare’s timeless tale to life on stage and screen. However, Grand Theft Hamlet provides a truly fresh perspective. This isn’t your typical rendition—it’s set within the chaotic universe of GTA Online. Rather than straightforwardly retelling the classic plot within the game, the film takes an innovative approach by serving as a documentary that dives into the monumental task of staging and organizing such a unique production.
The creative minds behind this project are UK-based couple Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane. Grylls is known for her work in documentaries, while Crane has built his career as an actor. Their journey into this virtual realm was fueled by the pandemic’s restrictions. As lockdowns left many industries in limbo and emptied theater seats, Crane found himself with unexpected downtime. So, the pair turned to video games, transforming them into a new stage for their artistic endeavors, and captured the entire process in this intriguing documentary.
The trailer promises a rollercoaster of moments, swinging between the comedic and the profoundly serious. What stands out is how frequently the production encounters interruptions from other online players, yet it’s heartening to see how many gamers actually chipped in to help bring this vision to life. Despite the challenges that come with such a wild setting, it’s precisely these kinds of quirky art projects that truly captivate me.
For those curious to see it unfold, mark your calendars for January 17, when Grand Theft Hamlet makes its debut in theaters. Plus, keep an eye out, as it will hit the streaming service Mubi sometime later.
