The BBC has presented a more complex and complete Hamlet than most filmmakers dare attempt. While alternative versions may provide a more spectacular and fantastic setting, Jacobi's Hamlet possesses the intelligence and clarity such an intricate and difficult character requires.
Notwithstanding talent such as Claire Bloom and Patrick Stewart, viewers are more likely to gravitate toward Jacobi's solar pull as the principal character, making satellites of his costars.
Stewart's Claudius is sometimes sympathetic for the audience, while simultaneously contemptuous toward his nephew-son.
Claire Bloom plays Gertrude with a grace and maturity often lacking in the part, while Ophelia is portrayed as a weak and submissive character - a sensible interpretive choice ignored by most performers.
Overall, Horatio and the ghost are the most off-key characters in this finely tuned orchestration.
Notwithstanding talent such as Claire Bloom and Patrick Stewart, viewers are more likely to gravitate toward Jacobi's solar pull as the principal character, making satellites of his costars.
Stewart's Claudius is sometimes sympathetic for the audience, while simultaneously contemptuous toward his nephew-son.
Claire Bloom plays Gertrude with a grace and maturity often lacking in the part, while Ophelia is portrayed as a weak and submissive character - a sensible interpretive choice ignored by most performers.
Overall, Horatio and the ghost are the most off-key characters in this finely tuned orchestration.