Branagh’s ‘Hamlet’ Puts Excitement Back Into Shakespeare

As he has shown time and time again, Kenneth Branagh is a genius. His Shakespearean interpretations are virtually unparalleled and he has a unique way of presenting the Bard’s works in an original, exciting and compelling way that doesn’t stray too far from the originals.

His latest effort, the word-for-word version of “Hamlet,” is no exception.

He doesn’t resort to “Romeo and Juliet’s” modernization to make it interesting, or “Richard III’s” similar tricks to make it more suspenseful. But “Hamlet” is just as good as any drama in theaters (or bookstores) today.

In addition to directing and adapting the play for the screen, Branagh stars in the title role. Perhaps his only flaw (and the only flaw in the movie) is that he is TOO good for the film.

As many non-Shakespeare-buff moviegoers (like myself) would tell you, the distinguishing factor between a good performance and a bad one is how well it is understood. There are plenty of silver-screen Shakespeare adaptations out there that you might as well be in Russian, for all I can figure out.

Branagh, however, consistently cuts through all that. Whenever he was on screen in “Hamlet” (or “Othello,” or “Much Ado About Nothing,” for that matter) the story becomes significantly clearer and much more enjoyable to watch. There simply isn’t another contemporary actor who can do that.

And there’s the failing of the film: Branagh couldn’t play every part. While Richard Attenborough and Derek Jacobi, experienced Shakespearean actors, shine in supporting roles, they are two of the few players who can hold their own in Branagh’s film.

Other, more minor supporting roles seem to be focused on bulking up box-office return than bulking up the artistic quality. Consider the poor English accents (among other things) of Gerard Depardieu, Jack Lemmon and Robin Williams.

Billy Crystal is the only exception. Playing a gravedigger, his sort of humor fits perfectly into the film without changing the intent of the original play.

Fans of Branagh’s other efforts - “Henry V” in particular - will not be disappointed by “Hamlet.” This movie sports unmatchable Shakespearean grandeur, supplemented by a spectacular orchestral score by Patrick Doyle.

Moviegoers may be put off by the movie’s four-hour running time. Don’t worry: Not only does the film have an intermission about half-way through, it never gets boring.

If nothing else, think of “Hamlet” as a way to get more bang for your movie buck. Where else can you get four hours of quality entertainment for the same price as an hour and a half of “Dante’s Peak?”

Grade: A