Comparing Hamlet And Branagh's Hamlet

Shakespeare can be considered the greatest writer of the Hollywood scripts, and they make many versions of his works. On Hamlet several movies have already been made. In 1990, Franco Zeffirelli directed aversion of Hamlet starring Mel Gibson. In 1996, Kenneth Branagh's Hamlet is not only the longest version, but also the most luxuriant version of Shakespeare’s great revenge tragedy on film. In these two different versions of Hamlet, the way that the ghost is presented in the scenes creates a significant contrast in the persona of the ghost and Hamlet's perception of the figure. By analyzing the manner in which the ghost is introduced in the scene, the setting, acting, the sound in the background, and the use of specific camera angles, we can illustrate the difference in the portrayal of the ghost.

The acting by both actors is admirable, and it provides a new outlook on the relationship Hamlet and his father have, and there is a unique way of staging the scene. This ghost is much more delicate when compared to Branaugh's version. The ghost is seated in this version which makes him calm and responsive. Zeffirelli did not use the bounty of lighting. When analyzing the acting in Hamlet’s 1990 version, many dramatic pauses taken by the ghost during his talk create suspense and anticipation for the viewers. In the 1990 version, the ghost expresses feelings of sadness and betrayal through a few tears shed and