Hamlet (1996) Review in 2025
A classic tale of betrayal, revenge, and madness, set in 16th-century Denmark. Prince Hamlet seeks to avenge his father's murder, but the line between reality and fantasy blurs.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and violence.
CineReview Recommendation
Definitely worth watching, especially for fans of Shakespeare and classic drama. However, be prepared for a slow-paced and introspective film that may not be suitable for all audiences.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
Hamlet's father is murdered by his brother Claudius, who marries Hamlet's mother and becomes the new king. Hamlet vows to avenge his father's death, but his quest for justice is complicated by his own mental instability and the treacherous web of deceit surrounding him.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is a faithful adaptation of Shakespeare's classic play, with a strong narrative that explores themes of betrayal, revenge, and mortality. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of action, drama, and introspection.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Mel Gibson delivering a standout performance as Hamlet. The supporting cast is also impressive, with strong performances from Glenn Close and Alan Bates.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Hamlet being a particularly nuanced and relatable protagonist. The supporting cast is also impressive, with standout performances from Glenn Close and Alan Bates.
direction9.00/10
Franco Zeffirelli's direction is masterful, bringing a sense of grandeur and drama to the film. He handles the complex plot and characters with ease, creating a cinematic experience that is both engaging and emotionally resonant.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a mix of sweeping landscapes and intimate close-ups. The use of lighting and color is also noteworthy, adding to the film's overall mood and atmosphere.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Faithful adaptation of Shakespeare's classic play, strong narrative, well-developed characters, masterful direction, and superb acting.
Cons
Slow-paced and introspective, may not be suitable for all audiences.
Notable Quotes
"Neither a borrower nor a lender be."
"Something is rotten in the state of Denmark."
"To be, or not to be: that is the question."
