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A critical view of how film adaptations change the discourse, reflexivity and meta-theatrical aspects of Shakespeare's plays. Sarah Hatchuel discusses the use of cutting and framing in Branagh's film versions and how his choices may lead the audience; but that this process, though often problematic, can still be true to the play's discourse.

"The role of Hamlet has been called the hoop through which every actor must jump, a rite of passage that confers a special kudos on the thespian who can master this most complex and subtle of Shakespeare's characters. From John Gielgud's lifelong association with the play, both as star and director, via David Warner's student prince to Derek Jacobi and Kenneth Branagh's involvement with television and cinematic treatments, this collection examines the challenges and rewards that some of the giants of the theatre have faced when exploring the enigma of 'Hamlet'."

Regarding this movie, Roger Ebert, from the Chicago Sun-Times, said that "at the end of this ``Hamlet,'' I felt at last as if I was getting a handle on the play". He accredits this to Branagh's skill in enriching the roles of characters beyond Hamlet; his ability to stage familiar scenes in new ways, his portrayal of Hamlet as an active participant in royal politics which makes "him less a subject for pity"; and his inclusion of scenes that are often left out in movie productions. One of the ways he enriches the roles of other characters is seen in his depiction of Claudius, played by Derek Jacobi. As Ebert notes, "in shorter versions, he is the scowling usurper who functions only as villain. Here, with lines and scenes restored, he seems more balanced and powerful". This rendition seems more like Shakespeare's productions would have been because the complexity of the characters is honored. Additionally, this version shows the importance of the play within the play that many other versions leave out. Here, "we listen to the actual lines of his play (which shorter versions often relegate to dumb-show at the back of the stage). We see how ingeniously and cleverly they tweak the conscience of the king, and we see Claudius' pained reactions". Branagh's gives credit to the intricacies of plot, like the play, the intricacies of character in his version of "Hamlet".