Hamlet (2015)

A landmark filmed stage production featuring BAFTA-nominee Maxine Peake as the Prince of Denmark in a critically acclaimed Royal Exchange Theatre performance.

Hamlet - Movie Information

  • Original Title: Hamlet
  • Release Year: 2015
  • Directed by: Sarah Frankcom, Margaret Williams
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Drama
  • Runtime: 3h 4m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): March 23, 2015 (United Kingdom)
  • Alternative Titles: Гамлет (RU)
  • Production Countries: United Kingdom

Hamlet - Plot

From its sell-out run at Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre comes a film version of this unique and critically acclaimed production of Hamlet with BAFTA-nominee Maxine Peake in the title role. This ground-breaking stage production, directed by Sarah Frankcom, was the Royal Exchange's fastest-selling show in a decade.

Hamlet - Trailer

Watch the official trailer and see Maxine Peake's extraordinary performance come to life:

Desire. Murder. Revenge.

Where to Watch Hamlet

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Hamlet - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Sarah Frankcom
  • Margaret Williams

Main Cast

  • Maxine Peake
  • John Shrapnel
  • Barbara Marten
  • Gillian Bevan
  • Thomas Arnold
  • Ashley Zhangazha
  • Katie West
  • Claire Benedict
  • Peter Singh
  • Jodie McNee

Producers

  • Anne Beresford
  • Debbie Gray

Hamlet - FAQs

Who plays Hamlet in the 2015 production?

BAFTA-nominee Maxine Peake takes on the title role in this 2015 production, making it one of the most talked-about casting choices in recent Shakespeare history. Her portrayal of the Danish prince was widely praised by critics and helped make it the Royal Exchange's fastest-selling show in a decade.

Where can I watch Hamlet (2015)?

You can watch Hamlet (2015) on several platforms. It's available to stream for free on Kanopy, Hoopla, and Plex Channel. If you'd prefer to own or rent it, Apple TV Store and Fandango At Home both offer purchase and rental options.

Is Hamlet (2015) a filmed stage production?

Yes, this is a filmed version of a live stage production originally performed at Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre. Director Margaret Williams captured Sarah Frankcom's acclaimed theatrical staging for the screen, preserving the intimacy and energy of the live performance for audiences who couldn't attend in person.

Why does a woman play Hamlet in this version?

Director Sarah Frankcom made the bold choice to cast Maxine Peake as Hamlet, a decision rooted in the belief that the role's themes of grief, indecision, and moral conflict transcend gender. The casting sparked significant critical discussion and was widely celebrated as a fresh, revelatory interpretation of Shakespeare's most famous character.

Who directed the 2015 Hamlet film?

The stage production was directed by Sarah Frankcom, while Margaret Williams directed the film adaptation of the performance. Together they brought this Royal Exchange Theatre production to a wider audience, preserving Frankcom's ground-breaking theatrical vision in a cinematic format.

How long is Hamlet (2015)?

Hamlet (2015) runs for 3 hours and 4 minutes — a runtime that reflects the full scope of Shakespeare's text. It's a substantial watch, but fans of the play and admirers of Maxine Peake's performance tend to find the time flies by.

How was Hamlet (2015) received by critics?

The production earned widespread critical acclaim. Reviewers praised Maxine Peake's performance as bold, nuanced, and deeply moving, while Sarah Frankcom's direction was celebrated for its modern sensibility and emotional clarity. It was described as one of the most compelling Shakespeare productions in recent years.

What are some similar films to Hamlet (2015)?

If you enjoyed Hamlet (2015), you might also appreciate National Theatre Live: Hamlet (2015), Antigone (2019), and 3 Days in Quiberon (2018). These films share a similar interest in powerful performances, literary or theatrical source material, and strong character-driven storytelling.

More About Hamlet

Explore further details about this production on the following resources:

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