Grand Theft Hamlet – Shakespeare’s Hamlet Takes Over the Streets of Los Santos

In an unexpected mashup of classic literature and chaotic gameplay, Grand Theft Hamlet is set to bring William Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy to the virtual streets of Los Santos. Co-directed by Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane, the documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at their audacious project to stage Hamlet entirely within Grand Theft Auto Online.

A Pandemic Passion Project

The idea for Grand Theft Hamlet was born during the 2021 lockdowns, with the husband-and-wife team blending their backgrounds in acting and filmmaking to create something unique. What started as a pandemic pastime became a full-scale production, complete with in-game auditions, unpredictable interruptions, and surprising support from fellow GTA players.

One memorable moment shows Crane recruiting performers in a lobby, only to be unceremoniously “killed” mid-sentence. These challenges, however, didn’t deter the team, who captured both the humor and heart of their journey on film.

Chaos and Creativity

The trailer teases unforgettable scenes: Hamlet’s monologues against the backdrop of explosions, SWAT teams, and futuristic vehicles. Somehow, this juxtaposition of Shakespearean drama and GTA chaos strikes a chord, blending the highbrow with the hilarious in a way that’s earned it a 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

When and Where to Watch

Grand Theft Hamlet opens in US theaters on January 17, 2025, with plans to stream later on MUBI. Whether you’re a fan of Shakespeare, gaming, or unconventional storytelling, this documentary promises to be as bizarre as it is brilliant.

It’s proof that even in the most chaotic of settings, art can thrive—and sometimes, it might even make you laugh out loud.

Image Credit: Rockstar Games & Altitude Films

Image Credit: Rockstar Games & Altitude Films

Image Credit: Rockstar Games & Altitude Films

Image Credit: Rockstar Games & Altitude Films

Image Credit: Rockstar Games & Altitude Films

To learn more about this passion project, be sure to check out their official website here!

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