This 1964 'Hamlet' was quite a unique experience and unlike any other adaptation of the play seen. This is meant in a very good way. 'Hamlet' is one of Shakespeare's finest and one of his most quoted and parodied in popular culture, it is also one of his most adapted with mostly impressive results (amazing considering that it is one of Shakespeare's most difficult with the characters being so psychologically complex). Also love the Russian language, which is a major reason as to why this version stands out from the rest.
After watching, for me this film replaces the wonderful Laurence Olivier film (though that is to judged as an incredible piece of film-making and a standalone, not for those that want 100 percent fidelity) as the finest screen adaptation of 'Hamlet'. One of my favourite versions overall. Not only will it be of great interest value for fans of the play and Shakespeare, as well as those intrigued by Russian film, but it is exceptional film-making in its own right. Have loved Russian film for a long time, for me this 'Hamlet' is up there with the finest Russian films ever made and that is quite a compliment to give.
Visually, this 'Hamlet' is a work of art and the best looking version of the play to exist (yes even more so than Olivier's). Easily among the best looking Shakespeare film adaptations, with sets that are both sumptuous and brooding, very atmospheric lighting, costumes that are evocative and not cheap and cinematography that is achingly beautiful and bold. Have always appreciated Shostakovich's music, his haunting, intensely dramatic and emotionally rich music here made me appreciate him all the more.
Grigory Kozintsev's direction is nothing short of exemplary and shows a master at work, although justifiably lauded (and as well as his 'Hamlet', his 'King Lear', one of the best versions of that play too, and 'Don Quixote' are deservedly highly regarded) he deserves to be wider known worldwide and his films made more accessible. The script is poetry in words, thoughtful and emotionally complex.
The story is always absorbing and highly atmospheric, with plenty of high drama, intimacy and poignancy. Everything is done in good taste, no questionable, irrelevant or gratuitous touches, and it is one of the few adaptations to nail the psychology of the characters and their complexities (Orphelia can be potentially passive, she isn't here), the play within a play elements and also putting strong emphasis on the politics without being heavy-handed or rambling. All the performances make their mark, with one of the most powerful screen Hamlets in Innokenti Smoktunovsky. As well as a touching Anastasia Vertinskaya and sinister yet noble Mikhail Nazvanov.
Summing up, brilliant and a must for Shakespeare fans and if you want to see something different but in a way that is unique and done in good taste. 10/10.
