Altitude Media Group has recently announced its involvement in a groundbreaking documentary project called Grand Theft Hamlet. This documentary takes a unique approach to storytelling by being shot entirely inside the world of the popular video game Grand Theft Auto. The film follows the journey of theater actors Sam Crane and Mark Oosterveen as they come up with the inventive idea to stage a full production of Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ within the virtual confines of Grand Theft Auto 5.
The worldwide premiere of Grand Theft Hamlet is set to take place at SXSW, and it will later have a European premiere at CPH:DOX. Altitude Media Group has acquired the worldwide rights to the documentary and is poised to release it in UK and Irish cinemas. According to Managing Director Mike Runagall, the film is a blend of humor and emotion that is sure to captivate audiences in a way that has never been done before. Mike Runagall expressed his enthusiasm for partnering with the creators of the film, emphasizing that Grand Theft Hamlet is truly a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.
The premise of Grand Theft Hamlet is both intriguing and thought-provoking. Set against the backdrop of the Covid-19 lockdown in the UK, the film follows the struggles of Sam and Mark, two theater actors who find themselves grappling with uncertainty and isolation. As they immerse themselves in the virtual world of Grand Theft Auto, they stumble upon the idea of staging a production of Hamlet within the confines of the game. The documentary chronicles their unconventional and often hilarious journey as they navigate through challenges, encounter unexpected revelations, and explore the enduring impact of Shakespeare’s work.
A Collaborative Effort
Grand Theft Hamlet is a collaborative effort between various production companies and individuals. Julia Ton’s Project 1961 and Rebecca Wolff and Dean Puckett’s Grasp the Nettle Films are at the helm of the production, working in conjunction with Park Pictures. With a talented team of producers and executives on board, including Eric Kuhn, Beth Levison, and Will Clarke, the documentary promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of creativity and resilience.
Director Pinny Grylls, known for her work in documentary filmmaking, is making her feature-length directorial debut with Grand Theft Hamlet. Grylls, who is deaf/hard of hearing, brings a unique perspective to the project, offering audiences a fresh and innovative take on the intersection of art and technology. Alongside Grylls, Sam Crane, a seasoned video artist and actor, lends his creative expertise to the production, ensuring that Grand Theft Hamlet will be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.
Grand Theft Hamlet stands out as a pioneering documentary that pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Through its immersive exploration of virtual reality, Shakespearean drama, and the human experience, the film promises to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact. With an exceptional team of filmmakers and producers at the helm, Grand Theft Hamlet is poised to make a profound mark on the world of cinema.