I admire Hamlet, directed by Aneil Karia and adapted to screen by Michael Lesslie, more than I like it. At times, that admiration does come close to adoration, especially when Riz Ahmed gives a brilliant and fiercely original take on classic material.
But for the majority of its runtime, something about Hamlet kept me at arms reach. I spent much of my time admiring the ideas and smart updates to Shakespeare's text on an analytical level instead of being absorbed by the moment.
The fault is not with the cast, least of all Ahmed and Morfydd Clark, who both speak iambic pentameter as if it was second nature. Their modernization of their respective roles is so forceful that once the initial shock wears off, you can't help but gasp at the bravery of it all. Similarly enjoyable are Joe Alwyn and Timothy Spall, who have a blast sneering and chewing the scenery every minute they're on screen.
The setting, too deserves its praise. Karia moves Hamlet's journey for revenge to present-day London and its South Asian community. The translation works beautifully. Shakespeare's fascination with weddings and transitions of power fits perfectly in a world where tradition and celebration go hand in hand.
Karia's Hamlet smartly democratizes the language and stuffiness that Shakespeare is associated with today by reminding audiences that these were plays for everyone. The common folk saw themselves in the grand morality plays and tragedies. The UK has always been a multicultural immigrant kingdom. It's important to see that reflected in its cultural heritage.
And yet, some of the staging doesn't quite work. At times, Karia can't quite find a tone or place for the numerous monologues that clash against modern storytelling techniques he deftly employs. Ahmed is at all times brilliant, finding new ways to delight and surprise with his performance. Especially when it comes to the iconic soliloquy, which he plays off as a desperate meltdown at the edge of an emotional cliff.
Perhaps, as an adaptation, Hamlet is the kind of powerful work that will grow in estimation along with time. It's an impactful film with a forceful point of view, and that's something I cannot fault even if I have reservations. Shakespeare's works are timeless, each adaptation proves that to be the case. The best compliment I can give Karia's version is that, in his hands, it reveals Shakespeare to transcend any expected boundaries of culture as well.
