In the unexpected blend of Shakespearean tragedy and chaotic video game violence, Grand Theft Hamlet emerges as a surprisingly poignant and riotously funny animated documentary. Winner of the SXSW Grand Jury Award in the Documentary Feature category, this COVID lockdown piece captures the absurdity of isolation while exploring themes of community and emotional connection in a digital world.
The film follows two actors, Sam Crane and Mark Oosterveen, as they attempt to stage a full-length production of Hamlet within the hyper-violent world of Grand Theft Auto Online. What starts as a lighthearted experiment quickly becomes a challenging and hilarious endeavor, as the actors navigate in-game disruptions and real-world logistical hurdles.
Shot during London’s third major COVID lockdown, Grand Theft Hamlet reflects on mortality in the silliest possible ways, juxtaposing the weighty themes of Shakespeare’s text with the whimsical chaos of the video game setting. As the actors struggle to bring their production to life amidst virtual mayhem, the film delves into the complexities of relationships and creativity under extraordinary circumstances.
With a blend of humor, creativity, and unexpected depth, Grand Theft Hamlet is a truly unique lockdown film that offers a fresh perspective on art, community, and the human experience in a digital age.