A Promising Road

Even though I haven’t read Hamlet, I consider I have some understanding of its significance for English and the literary world. This introduction to the film let me understand how monumental it was for the director to film Hamlet, since he states that “there had been lots of films of Hamlet and it seemed entirely impossible that I would be allowed to do it” (Branagh, 1:29-1:34). It is interesting how a piece of art develops with the years to become an icon of that culture, to grow into a monument of life, of that time period, transcending into history. The idea of having a piece of art influence or generate new concepts, new art pieces, new educational guidelines is astonishing. Following this line of thought I wonder: What will be our time period’s legacy? Who will be remembered or better yet change human history forever? What impact will today’s writings and artistic creations pieces have in our culture and future? Will there be a another artistic genius who will have such an impact in the world like Shakespeare?

The possibility of seeing this film version of Hamlet is reveled when Branagh states: “Listen, there has never been on screen, the full length Hamlet” (Branagh, 2:49-2:53). I believe it is very difficult to create a good film from a book or play. I would even state that I haven’t seen a film that surpasses or even equals a book I’ve read in my entire life. Normally what happens is that the film has to eliminate several scenes in order to end up with a reasonable length, also limiting the viewers understanding of the plot, ending up with a disappointing version of the complex ideas expressed in the book or play. Even though I expect some scenes, dialogs or soliloquies to be cut out, I hope this isn’t another lousy version of the written art piece.

From my AP US History class I have learned that most of the people involved with film versions of historic recounts and plays normally agree to participate not because of the economical aspect, but because they are truly fascinated by what they are doing. The director states how “I hope you enjoy us enjoying the film” (Branagh, 7:28-7:31). This makes me reflect on how these individuals are truly giving the best of themselves in order for this film to happen. I believe the created piece at times has to be seen as something in its own right, an illegitimate child of the original piece. The cultural significance of this film as with most of these creations hopefully will break patterns, innovate, surprise and rattle our cage.