Week X: Branagh vs. Gibson

After watching both versions of Hamlet and careful deliberation, I have decided that, while the Gibson version was very good, I liked the Branagh version better. Here's why.

Gibson: Pros: Firstly, it had Mel Gibson in it, that's a pretty big pro. I thought he was a better Hamlet. Secondly, the castle was way cooler, it was a proper castle, not a frilly palace. Thirdly, the Ophelia did a much better job being mad. And lastly, in the part where Gertrude and Hamlet were talking, it actually seemed like Hamlet was "speaking daggers" into Gertrude's ears.        

Gibson: Cons: Firstly, and the biggest, the lines went through a blender, they were all out of order and they cut so much! To me, accuracy is big. Second, they left out Fortinbras entirely, who played a major part of the irony at the end of the play. Lastly, the Ghost was way less scary. When he said "SWEAR!", it was more of a "swear".

Branagh: Pros: Firstly, The accuracy was nearly perfect. The only thing they did was move the line order a bit for affect. Once again, accuracy is huge. Secondly, it was looong. I for one, like long movies, so to me, this is a pro. Lastly, the cinematography was amazing. That shot near the beginning, with Hamlet standing in the middle of the empty throne room was brilliant. 

Branagh: Cons: Firstly, It was looong. to other people, this can be tiresome. Who wants to see a four hour movie? Secondly, I did not like this version's Hamlet as much as the Gibson version. That's it. 

So, this is my opinion. The Gibson Hamlet was better for the more casual movie-watcher, but the Branagh version was much more practical for someone studying Hamlet, like me. That is why I liked the Branagh Hamlet better.