Hamlet (2004)
A landmark filmed opera uniting Simon Keenlyside and Natalie Dessay in Ambroise Thomas's grand operatic vision of Shakespeare's immortal tragedy.
Hamlet - Movie Information
Hamlet - Plot
Hamlet suspects his uncle has murdered his father to claim the throne of Denmark and the hand of Hamlet's mother, but the prince cannot decide whether or not he should take vengeance.
Where to Watch Hamlet
Looking for where to watch Hamlet?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Hamlet - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Patrice Caurier
- Moshe Leiser
- Toni Bargalló
Main Cast
- Natalie Dessay as Ophélie
- Simon Keenlyside as Hamlet
- Béatrice Uria-Monzon as Queen Gertrude
- Alain Vernhes as King Claudius
- Bertrand de Billy as Self - Conductor
Writers
- Ambroise Thomas
- Jules Barbier
Hamlet - FAQs
What is the opera Hamlet (2004) about?
Hamlet (2004) is a filmed production of Ambroise Thomas's 19th-century French opera, itself based on Shakespeare's tragedy. Prince Hamlet suspects his uncle Claudius of murdering his father to seize the Danish throne and his mother's hand, but is paralyzed by indecision over whether to seek revenge.
Who sings the role of Hamlet in this production?
Scottish baritone Simon Keenlyside portrays the title role of Hamlet in this 2004 production. Keenlyside is widely regarded as one of the finest singing actors of his generation, and his portrayal of the tormented Danish prince is considered a career-defining performance.
Who plays Ophélie in Hamlet (2004)?
French coloratura soprano Natalie Dessay performs the role of Ophélie. Her portrayal of the tragic heroine — particularly the celebrated Mad Scene — showcases her extraordinary vocal agility and dramatic intensity, earning widespread critical acclaim for this production.
Is Hamlet (2004) based on Shakespeare's play?
Yes, but indirectly. This filmed production presents Ambroise Thomas's 1868 French opera Hamlet, which was itself adapted from Shakespeare's tragedy by librettists Jules Barbier and Michel Carré. The opera takes significant liberties with the original, most notably giving Hamlet a dramatically different ending.
How does the opera Hamlet differ from Shakespeare's version?
The most striking difference is the ending: in Ambroise Thomas's opera, Hamlet survives and is proclaimed King of Denmark after killing Claudius, whereas Shakespeare's play ends with the deaths of nearly all principal characters including Hamlet himself. The opera also expands Ophélie's role considerably.
Who directed the 2004 Hamlet opera production?
The stage production was directed by the acclaimed opera directing duo Patrice Caurier and Moshe Leiser, with Toni Bargalló also credited as director. Caurier and Leiser are known for their psychologically nuanced and visually striking operatic stagings across major European houses.
How long is the Hamlet opera film (2004)?
The 2004 filmed production of Hamlet runs approximately 2 hours and 56 minutes (176 minutes). This reflects the full length of Ambroise Thomas's five-act opera, which is one of the more substantial works in the 19th-century French grand opera repertoire.
Where can I watch Hamlet (2004)?
Streaming and viewing options for the 2004 Hamlet opera film vary by region and platform availability. You can check the latest streaming options, rental, and purchase availability for your location through JustWatch, which aggregates current listings across major platforms.
More About Hamlet
Explore further details, credits, and data for this production on the following resources.