I’ve experienced countless renditions of “Hamlet” over the years, witnessing various actors bring Shakespeare’s timeless tale to life both on stage and the big screen. However, “Grand Theft Hamlet” is breaking new ground by setting this classic drama in the chaotic world of GTA Online. This upcoming film isn’t just a simple playthrough of the story within the game; instead, it unfolds as a documentary that dives into the intricate process of staging and organizing this unique project—a feat that required some serious effort and creativity.
The film is helmed by a talented duo from the UK, Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane, who are not just co-directors but also a married couple. Grylls, known for her work as a documentarian, and Crane, an actor, were inspired to create “Grand Theft Hamlet” during the pandemic’s restrictive lockdowns. With traditional acting gigs on hold, they turned to the virtual realm, using video games as a fresh platform for theatrical expression, capturing their journey on film.
The outcome is both comical and deeply earnest, as the trailer vividly illustrates. While the project faces interruptions from other players, the surprising—and heartwarming—aspect is how many gamers choose to lend a hand and contribute to the production, despite the platform’s usual chaotic nature. It’s precisely these kinds of eccentric art projects that I find utterly fascinating.
Mark your calendars for January 17 when “Grand Theft Hamlet” makes its theatrical debut, with a streaming release on Mubi to follow at a later date.
