Two actors turned Grand Theft Auto into a stage for Hamlet—and created a viral, award-winning documentary!
In the midst of the pandemic, two actors found a unique escape in the virtual world of Grand Theft Auto. What started as a creative outlet quickly turned into something much bigger: a full production of Hamlet inside the game. This unexpected crossover between gaming and theater became the subject of a viral documentary that took the world by storm. Here’s everything you need to know about this wild project.
Hamlet meets GTA
In 2021, when theaters were closed and actors were desperate, Sam Crane and Mark Oosterveen had an idea that was as insane as it was brilliant. Instead of sulking through the pandemic, they dove into Grand Theft Auto, transforming its chaotic streets into a stage for Hamlet. Armed with weapons, cars, and an ensemble of random players, they pulled off a Shakespearean masterpiece in a world usually reserved for car chases and shootouts.
The result? A documentary that’s as absurd as it is inspiring. Here's a first look at the already crazy trailer for the even crazier Hamlet production.
The Grand Theft Hamlet documentary is the perfect blend of nerdy creativity and classic literature—who knew GTA and Shakespeare could mix so well? Filmed entirely within the game, using everything from in-game cameras to the occasional explosion, the film captures the madness of making art in a digital sandbox.
This quirky project, which somehow won multiple awards, is now available on Mubi. If you ever thought Hamlet was too serious, think again—this version has more explosions than existential monologues.
Shakespeare in GTA Chaos
The film has earned over $250K at the box office and is receiving rave reviews, with a stunning 94% on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid 3.6 rating on Letterboxd. This unexpected mashup has captured the attention of critics and viewers alike, proving that Shakespeare and GTA make an unbeatable combo. Its unique blend of classic literature and chaotic gameplay has set a new standard for what’s possible in digital filmmaking.
And instead of the 1 gazillion we got... before GTA6 joke, here are some Shakespearean puns for different possible gaming adaptations. How about this! Is this a pickaxe in front of me? Come, let me drink thee. My inventory, for a health potion! To gank, or not to gank, that is the question! Ok, you get the idea.
Are you going to watch the documentary? What game would you like to see have a Hamlet adaptation? Let us know in the comments!