Ophélie

As a huge fan of Shakespeare, I truly enjoyed this alternate take on the tale of Hamlet and Ophelia. The star-studded cast was a delight to watch deliver superb performances. The sets were absolutely breathtaking and the costuming was tasteful and evocative. The film was a rich feast of color and the music touched my heart. I found myself singing along with the theme and humming it after the end of the movie. I just love that a woman wrote the book, another the screenplay and the director was female as well. This definitely is a step in the right direction of telling "herstory" to take its rightful place aside "history".

It is not surprising the name of the costume designer features so early in the credits because he played a major role in making this film so watchable. All those gorgeous costumes must have cost a bit but along with some splendid décor, ecclesiastical and baronial interiors (and a few exteriors) and outdoor scenes of woods glades and hills this film never fail to offer pleasure for the eye. The story proceeds at a sufficient pace with some unexpected twists and turns while bringing out how empty and unsatisfying royal or any great power can be. Is it really worth fighting so hard for? Pity about the mayhem of the penultimate scene, it was unnecessary, but makes Ophelia's choice at the end seem a wise one.

I love Shakespeare, but I've also always had a soft spot for Ophelia. This reimagining of Hamlet is not faithful to the original text, so have an open mind and you may enjoy it. I don't generally like movies that apply modern sensibilities to classic stories and characters, but this one was tolerable. The acting was fine, the sets and costumes beautiful. Overall it was a fine film. But if you're a purist, don't bother.

Possibly because Hamlet is my favourite Shakespeare play, this film held me totally. Almost put off by other people's opinions,thank fully decided for myself. This was very clever,and holding. No two share fully the same views,but I am glad that to mine own self I was true. A haunting film,and I will never watch Hamlet in the same way again. Funny that it was so well received in Russia. TGray

I don't understand why the reviews for this one are so bad. I found this movie quite enjoyable. The acting seemed fine to me and the scenery and costume designs were really lovely. I enjoyed watching this movie a lot. I suppose those looking for the traditional portrayal of Hamlet might be disappointed. I enjoyed the updated dialogue and storyline from Ophelia's point of view. Give it a chance - you'll likely be pleased you did.