Hamlet (Kozintsev)

In the opening sequence of this production the whole line of the film is boldly laid down. Hamlet gallops across the sands towards Elsinore, and into the great sombre castle; Claudius’ rule is proclaimed in the crowded courtyard; the drawbridge is slowly pulled up, shutting the castle in on itself. Where Kozintsev scores, consistently and impressively is through the elements outlined in the film’s vigorous introduction; the way he involves the onlookers of Elsinore in the action, and the way he uses the castle and the court to create a feeling of encirclement by iron, stone and the watchful eye of the courtiers. The emphasis is on speed, clarity, the flow of visual action. It cuts a firm, slashing line through the play.