Hamlet (2000)
Shakespeare's timeless revenge tragedy reimagined as a sleek corporate thriller set in the heart of New York City.
Hamlet - Movie Information
- Original Title: Hamlet
- Release Year: 2000
- Directed by: Michael Almereyda
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Thriller
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 52m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): May 12, 2000 (United States - R), November 23, 2000 (Germany - 12), December 27, 2000 (France), December 1, 2011 (South Korea - 15)
- Alternative Titles: Hamlet 2000 (IT), Hamlet - The Denmark Corporation (AT)
- Production Companies: Miramax, double A Films
- Production Countries: United States of America
Hamlet - Plot
Modern day adaptation of Shakespeare's immortal story about Hamlet's plight to avenge his father's murder in New York City.
Hamlet - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see this bold Shakespearean reimagining come to life:
Passion, Betrayal, Revenge, A hostile takeover is underway.
Where to Watch Hamlet
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Hamlet - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Michael Almereyda
Main Cast
- Ethan Hawke
- Kyle MacLachlan
- Diane Venora
- Sam Shepard
- Bill Murray
- Liev Schreiber
- Julia Stiles
- Karl Geary
- Paula Malcomson
- Steve Zahn
Writers
- Michael Almereyda
Producers
- Amy Hobby
- Andrew Fierberg
Hamlet - FAQs
What is Hamlet (2000) about?
Hamlet (2000) transplants Shakespeare's classic revenge tragedy into modern-day Manhattan, where the Denmark Corporation has just lost its CEO. Ethan Hawke plays a brooding, video-camera-toting Hamlet who must decide whether to avenge his father's murder after his ghost reveals that his uncle Claudius is responsible.
How does the corporate setting change Shakespeare's story?
By relocating the action to a sleek New York media empire, director Michael Almereyda reframes the power struggle as a hostile corporate takeover. Boardrooms replace throne rooms, surveillance cameras stand in for spies, and Hamlet's famous soliloquies are delivered amid Times Square neon and hotel corridors, giving the tragedy a distinctly modern paranoia.
Where can you watch Hamlet (2000) online?
You can check current streaming, rental, and purchase options for Hamlet (2000) on JustWatch, which tracks availability across all major platforms in your region. Options may vary depending on your country and can change over time, so it's worth checking for the latest listings.
Who are the main actors in Hamlet (2000)?
The cast is genuinely impressive. Ethan Hawke leads as Hamlet, with Kyle MacLachlan as the scheming Claudius, Diane Venora as Gertrude, Sam Shepard as the Ghost, Bill Murray as Polonius, Liev Schreiber as Laertes, and Julia Stiles as Ophelia. Casey Affleck and Jeffrey Wright also appear in supporting roles.
Why is Bill Murray cast as Polonius?
It's one of the film's most intriguing casting choices. Murray brings a dry, world-weary quality to Polonius that makes the character feel less like a pompous fool and more like a seasoned corporate operator. His understated delivery adds unexpected pathos to Polonius's scenes, making his fate genuinely affecting.
Is Hamlet (2000) worth watching for Shakespeare fans?
Absolutely, though it rewards an open mind. Almereyda retains Shakespeare's original language while surrounding it with Super-8 footage, pixelated video diaries, and a downtown New York aesthetic. Critics praised its visual inventiveness and Hawke's introspective performance, making it a genuinely fresh take rather than a gimmicky update.
Who directed and wrote Hamlet (2000)?
Michael Almereyda both directed and adapted the screenplay, condensing Shakespeare's text while preserving its language. Known for indie films with a distinctive visual style, Almereyda used the project to explore themes of media saturation and alienation, with cinematographer John de Borman and composer Carter Burwell rounding out the creative team.
What is the age rating for Hamlet (2000)?
Hamlet (2000) is rated R in the United States. The rating reflects the film's mature themes, including murder, betrayal, and psychological breakdown, as well as some violence. It's best suited for older teens and adults, particularly those comfortable with both Shakespearean drama and contemporary indie filmmaking.
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