I’ve witnessed countless renditions of Hamlet, each showcasing unique styles through stage performances and films. But now, stepping into the scene is “Grand Theft Hamlet,” a fascinating twist where Shakespeare’s classic meets the chaotic universe of GTA Online. This isn’t just another retelling of the play inside the game; it’s actually a documentary that delves into the intriguing process of putting this project together—a task that required quite a bit of creativity and effort.
The concept sprang to life thanks to Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane, a dynamic husband-and-wife duo from the UK. Grylls, a seasoned documentarian, and Crane, an actor, found themselves brainstorming this venture during the pandemic. As lockdowns and social restrictions put traditional acting jobs on hold, they turned to the world of video games as a stage, capturing their novel journey through this documentary.
From the glimpse offered by the trailer, the project swings between moments of humor and intense dedication. It hilariously highlights the unpredictability of online gameplay, with frequent interruptions from other players, yet it’s heartening to see many players pitching in to make it all work despite the challenges. This quirky artsy endeavor is exactly the kind of creativity that piques my interest.
Mark your calendars as “Grand Theft Hamlet” debuts in theaters on January 17, with plans to stream on Mubi soon after.
