"Oh my gosh!" was the only phrase I could think of as I walked out the National Theatre. What is going on? Is this really Hamlet or is it a parody? The play started out with Horatio along with two other soldiers in modern clothing. Immediately I thought to myself, "okay, it's not what I expected but perhaps it's a good modern version of Hamlet. I mean, it has to be good, it's the National Theatre!" Oh boy was I wrong. During the first few scenes, the dialogues were still considered old tongue even though it's not completely Shakespearean. However, I was shocked by Hamlet's "Wassup my friend" during his reunion scene with Horatio and the smiley villain face. An alarm began to go off in my head. Fair enough, the play began to go down hill.
My biggest problem with the play was that it was neither modern nor traditional. Overall, it was just a wacky play. The actors wore modern clothings and spoke in mixed tongues. The play also included random scenes with Hamlet and the actors for his play which appeared to be pretty unnecessary. Not only that, what was with the t-shirts and techno music?! Jumping from thyself and my good lord to techno and "wassup" wasn't exactly the best mix. It was so ridiculous. The play should have stayed in one direction, either modern or traditional.
I was waiting for the intermission to happen, I felt that I couldn't take it any longer. I had a hard time deciding whether I should stay and finish the rest of the play. Maybe I am no judge of good plays and have no artistic taste, but no thank you. I rather spend my money watching corny chick flicks than this version of Hamlet in the National Theatre. It was, however, a truly unique experience. I never felt so bored and shocked at a play before!
Rebekah Wu
Wow, that's a really exciting reaction. You really hated it! Your comments are completely valid and the best part of all is how you make very specific observations. It is really interesting to read about the 'effect' the play had on you. Because you don't pretend to be a 'judge' with any preconceived 'taste' (a comment which I think is understandable, though in your case invalid since 'judgement' and 'taste' are so subjective and often abused by those who think they have 'taste' but who actually just 'follow the herd'), your opinion is that more interesting in an historical context. I really like this. Dr Q
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