Ken Branagh I Got You

Through the three versions of Hamlet displayed in class today, I thought Ken Branagh's 19th century version triumphed over the other two versions. From the colors to the camera angle to the acting, this Hamlet version was very clear and cleverly done. First, the colors between Black(Hamlet) to Red and White( Cladius and Gertrude) immensely demonstrated the opposing sides of the play; the protagonist in Hamlet, while antagonist in Cladius. Second, the set up for Hamlet's soliloquy was quite neat and effective. The camera angle was viewed through Hamlet's perpective, as a result showing Hamlet's view of the "unweeded garden" world. Third, Hamlet's soliloquy acting performance was powerfully passionated, yet with great composure and steady movement and pace. If my opinion was asked, this actor would certainly be nominated for an Oscars. If my opinion was asked once again, Ken Braugh would also be nominated for an Oscars for excellently directing this version of Hamlet. As for the other two versions, I felt as if there was something missing. Something was incomplete. I especially despised the modern version of Hamlet by Mike Almereyda. It was ineffective even though the plot and theme of the play is there; however, it was too modern at the same time, it was extremly old-fashioned because of the language. Hence, the modern version did not fit the play. On the other hand, Franco Zefireli's 16th century Hamlet's version did fit the play, but I thought the characters did not. They were not what i have imagined them to be, especially Cladius who look more like a commoner than a king. As a result, I am giving the Oscars Award for best Hamlet's version to Ken Braugh.