Check Out the Trailer for “Grand Theft Hamlet”: A GTA Online Adaptation of Shakespeare’s Classic

I’ve experienced many different takes on Hamlet over the years—numerous actors tackling Shakespeare’s classic tale across both stage and film adaptations. However, Grand Theft Hamlet brings something entirely unique to the table by setting the drama within the chaotic world of GTA Online. But this isn’t just another straightforward adaptation of the play transplanted into the game; it’s a documentary that delves into the intricate process behind organizing and executing such a creative endeavor.

This imaginative project is co-directed by the British duo, Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane. Grylls, a seasoned documentarian, and Crane, an actor, found themselves brainstorming during the pandemic. With the world in lockdown and Crane temporarily out of the acting scene, they turned their gaze to video games as a new stage for storytelling, leading to the creation of this documentary.

From what the trailer shows, the film swings between moments of humor and intense seriousness. The unusual nature of staging Hamlet in the world of GTA Online leads to frequent interruptions from other players. Yet, the truly heartening part is seeing how many players have rallied to assist in making this crazy idea a reality, despite the challenges posed by the game’s environment. It’s precisely the kind of quirky, artistic project that’s a delight to witness.

Grand Theft Hamlet makes its way to theaters on January 17th, with plans to stream on Mubi at a later date.