As the renowned William Shakespeare once penned, "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players." In their groundbreaking, BIFA 2024-nominated documentary Grand Theft Hamlet, Sam Crane and Pinny Grylls take this sentiment to heart, chronicling Crane and fellow unemployed actor Mark Oosterveen's audacious endeavor to stage a production of Shakespeare's Hamlet within the dynamic, unpredictable realm of Grand Theft Auto Online. Part comedy goldmine, part poignant reflection on life and the existential crisis of the arts during lockdown, this documentary is truly a 'seeing is believing' experience.
Check out an exclusive first look trailer for the movie below: With its solemn "To be or not to be" moments, the contemplative piano score by Jamie Perera, and stunning landscapes, one might initially think they are watching a live-action adaptation of Shakespeare's tragic masterpiece. However, when Crane's blue-haired, SMG-wielding avatar makes an appearance, the tone shifts decidedly away from the traditional Shakespearean as cosmic figures arrive at the Pinewood Bowl, and the virtual actors must politely ask their audience to "refrain from killing each other — or the actors." The enormity of Crane, Oosterveen, and Grylls' project becomes clear. This trailer, showcasing the film's 'shot entirely in-game' unique selling point, sets the tone effectively and promises that you don't need to be intimately familiar with the sprawling city of Los Santos to immerse yourself in its world.
Here's the official synopsis: "January 2021. The UK is in its 3rd lockdown, and all entertainment venues remain closed. For theatre actors Sam Crane and Mark Oosterveen, the future looks bleak. As the pandemic continues, Mark – single and childless – becomes increasingly socially isolated, while Sam worries about supporting his young family. They spend their days in the digital world of Grand Theft Auto and, upon discovering a theatre within the game, they conceive the idea to stage a full production of Hamlet. Sam’s wife, documentary filmmaker Pinny, joins them as an avatar filmmaker to document their journey. This film follows their ridiculous, hilarious, and moving adventure as they confront violent griefers and uncover surprising truths about life, friendship, and the enduring power of Shakespeare."
And here's a first look at the official poster for the movie: Having already garnered acclaim on the festival circuit this year, Grand Theft Hamlet is slated for release in UK and Irish cinemas on 6 December and will launch globally on MUBI in early 2025. The film will also be screened for free as part of Escapes nationwide previews on Monday 2 December.
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