Shakespeare’s most iconic work, Hamlet explodes with its big ideas and its ultimate story of loyalty, love, betrayal, murder and madness.

From its sell-out run at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre comes a film version of this unique and critically acclaimed production of Hamlet, with BAFTA nominee Maxine Peake in the title role. This groundbreaking stage production, directed by Sarah Frankcom, was Royal Exchange’s fastest-selling show in a decade.

“Right from the beginning of this production it felt like a thrilling opportunity to explore, excavate and interrogate something with Maxine Peake, the most fearless and most courageous actor that I’ve ever worked with.” Sarah Franckom

Hamlet is brought to cinemas by film director Margaret Williams, whose Written on Skin (Royal Opera House/BBC) won many awards including the Diapason d’Or. The film version of Hamlet is produced by Anne Beresford and Debbie Gray, the team behind “Peter Grimes on Aldeburgh Beach”, which Margaret also directed.

“Being able to shoot creatively with eight cameras ‘in the round’ enabled us to capture the spirit of the play and create a visceral and cinematic experience.” Margaret Williams

A cooperation between British Council and Open Arts Foundation