What starts out as a story about a father and his sons becomes a treatise on life, death and all in between. Using "Hamlet" the play as a starting point, which is unveiled during intense rehearsals and one performance over a three day period, we enjoy the stories of the actors behind the scenes (including Richard Chamberlain, Stefanie Powers, the remarkable Iva Hasperger, Peter Woodward and Joseph Culp) and watch them "hold the mirror up to nature." Human nature is the stuff of great drama, never moreso in this unexpected independent movie. A wonderful sense of discovery is in store for the viewer, particularly in the funny on-camera commentary of method actor (and teacher) Tom Badal, who plays Claudius in the play. The troupe come together, much in the same way that "troupes" always have, under actor/manager Alex Hyde-White, whose unique vision enabled this story to be told. Obviously benefiting from terrificly diligent editing (Sharon Rutter, Edo Brizio are credited), this film is highly recommended. Documentary filmmaker Louis Yansen is credited as a producer. Strong recommend, look out for "Three Days (of Hamlet)" at festivals. You will be in for a treat. It makes Shakespeare easy to understand.
14 Reviews
A multi-layer story
messine20006 February 2012
Warning: Spoilers
It is gripping to follow the creator and director of "Three Days of Hamlet", Alex Hyde-White, as he leads the viewer through his personal story and the play. As tension grows among the actors, things slowly begin to fall into place while the powerful language of Shakespeare and his drama progressively take over in a grand crescendo. All the actors do a splendid job; in a very unusual way, some of them even accept to partially lift the veil of their feelings, fears and hopes before the Hamlet reading thus succeeding in making the viewer accomplice to their state of mind and to the development of one of the story lines of a multi-layer story. Congratulations for giving us such an original project and for making a dream come true! A must-see!
Three Days of Hamlet take the audience through an artistic project adventure by Alex Hyde-White.
trusted777713 October 2012
I just had the pleasure of viewing Three Days of Hamlet at the Carmel Art and Film Festival. I thought the film was going to be good from the trailer, but man.... It was incredibly effective in ways I did not expect, nor would I have expected from a documentary.
While Hyde-White's support team ponders his vision, and drive and even his sanity, they work to produce a play in which their characters are doing the exact same thing to the work's protagonist, Hamlet. Alex Hyde- Whiteleaves part of his soul on that screen and if you ride the wave with him,it can rock you to your core. It is not just a film about a bunch of actors doing a quick theater production... it is about fathers, sons and the unspoken sense of duty and honor between them. The heart of this film is raw, naked and powerful. Find a way to see it. Then go hug your Dad.
The viewer experiences the play Hamlet in new ways, but the real core of this depiction is how the play runs parallel to the director/actor's own psyche that is both personal and intimate. That being said, Hyde- White's Hamlet is unique, and times fittingly comic and at times deliciously perfect but in a way that has never been seen on film before.
While Hyde-White's support team ponders his vision, and drive and even his sanity, they work to produce a play in which their characters are doing the exact same thing to the work's protagonist, Hamlet. Alex Hyde- Whiteleaves part of his soul on that screen and if you ride the wave with him,it can rock you to your core. It is not just a film about a bunch of actors doing a quick theater production... it is about fathers, sons and the unspoken sense of duty and honor between them. The heart of this film is raw, naked and powerful. Find a way to see it. Then go hug your Dad.
The viewer experiences the play Hamlet in new ways, but the real core of this depiction is how the play runs parallel to the director/actor's own psyche that is both personal and intimate. That being said, Hyde- White's Hamlet is unique, and times fittingly comic and at times deliciously perfect but in a way that has never been seen on film before.
A group of actors come together to put on a production of Hamlet in just 3 days.
trish-ty23 February 2013
A production that is part theatre part film and part documentary seems an unlikely project but Alex Hyde-White's Three Days (of Hamlet) has turned out to be inspired. A group of actors coming together to put on a production of Hamlet in three days escaped complete chaos by, what we call in Britain, "Blitz spirit" and sheer talent. Although most of the cast were reading their lines credit must be given to Iva Hasberger who,as Ophelia, had learned her part and was therefore able to perform her descent into madness with abandon! I found myself completely immersed in the characters and Alex's retrospective account of his relationship with his father and also relationship with his own sons. His father's comment that great talent usually skipped a generation and Alex's response that as he has two sons of his own, he hopes it does, I found incredibly moving. But he need not worry, his portrayal of Hamlet was beautiful, so gentle and had me enthralled. Talent didn't skip a generation!! I now feel the need to read the play myself, something I haven't done since seeing Richard Chamberlain play the part 45 years ago at the Birmingham Rep.
3 Days is a film well worth seeing
jackiedwrds63 May 2011
This film was a delightful piece with many layers and meanings, both the Hamlet story that we know and the personal stories of the cast and crew.
The editing was skillful and added the the many story levels and the actors (Alex Hyde-White (also the director and writer) Stefanie Powers and Richard Chamberlain to name a few) were superb and the behind the scenes footage was surprisingly thoughtful, funny and at times moving.
The traditional story of Hamlet abbreviated somewhat and was done in the style of a 'reading' after only 3 days of preparation. It was an extraordinary vision and accomplishment for the film's writer/director, Alex Hyde-White.
A film well worth watching.
The editing was skillful and added the the many story levels and the actors (Alex Hyde-White (also the director and writer) Stefanie Powers and Richard Chamberlain to name a few) were superb and the behind the scenes footage was surprisingly thoughtful, funny and at times moving.
The traditional story of Hamlet abbreviated somewhat and was done in the style of a 'reading' after only 3 days of preparation. It was an extraordinary vision and accomplishment for the film's writer/director, Alex Hyde-White.
A film well worth watching.
What a wonderful job!
bherbomm12 February 2012
I had never encountered anything comparable. This is a new and beautiful interpretation with the personal stories of the cast and crew. I felt a lot of emotion, richness, depth, sensitivity and tenderness, humor too... Furthermore, music is mesmerizing... Congratulations to the wonderful actors that remind us brilliantly that this tragedy of another time can be transposed to the news because the great Shakespeare is timeless. Hamlet has fascinated audiences and readers for centuries and this film makes Shakespeare accessible to all. I think it could be a fabulous tool to introduce youngsters to Shakespeare. This is an original way to show that Hamlet is a vehicle used by Shakespeare in order to articulate a whole series of themes central to humanity : relationships between father and son, mother and son, Hamlet and his friends, love relationships, the most significant existential questions... Each of us has a personal vision of Shakespeare, readings of Hamlet are innumerable and vary according to the personality of the reader, director or actor. Each of us, no matter the age, can recognize him or herself in Hamlet and can shape the myth of Hamlet in his/her image. I'm no longer sure to read Hamlet in the same way after seeing this film! To me, this original vision gives a real success. The atmosphere created by Alex Hyde White, wonderful actors and the team is fabulous. "MERCI"! for this wonderful experience.
A unique mix of film and theatre
kinofan17 October 2012
I must confess. I've never read Hamlet. I've tried to read Shakespeare, but was drowned in the Olde English verbiage. But after seeing Three Days of Hamlet, I'm ready to brave reading the script. That's one, Alex Hyde-White. Bravo for you turning me on to a Shakespeare classic.
But more touching, more evoking, in watching this documentary were the poignant references to an actor's real-life family - a father/son relationship of two respected actors, Alex Hyde-White and Wilfrid Hyde-White, and the father/sons relationship of the actor and his two children. That's two.
The director/actor took a big risk in this doc/theatrical performance, but the well-chosen talent took a wild leap of faith in him to execute what many would see as a hair-brained idea. But the reality is, it worked.
And kudos to the editor, who allowed not only the "working" moments to make the final cut, but the frustrations, foul-ups and mishaps along the way. That's three. This film has my vote.
But more touching, more evoking, in watching this documentary were the poignant references to an actor's real-life family - a father/son relationship of two respected actors, Alex Hyde-White and Wilfrid Hyde-White, and the father/sons relationship of the actor and his two children. That's two.
The director/actor took a big risk in this doc/theatrical performance, but the well-chosen talent took a wild leap of faith in him to execute what many would see as a hair-brained idea. But the reality is, it worked.
And kudos to the editor, who allowed not only the "working" moments to make the final cut, but the frustrations, foul-ups and mishaps along the way. That's three. This film has my vote.
very engaging and absorbing
jessreevesjr12 April 2013
Fascinating and adeptly handled. Alex is very engaging as are the other cast members. It is quite a fascinating project to observe. Highly recommend.The editing is of particular interest and the historical flashes of father and son and Alrx with his own sons makes it all the more interesting. Done with a very gentle and respectful hand. While I would have substituted Chamberlain for Claudius and the actor in that for I do hope Mr. Hyde-White will continue to apply his rather intelligent and ...nuanced touch again and again. I remember seeing him play Romeo in which he was amazingly on target scene after scene. His sense of the texts in both renditions is quite natural and brings out a unique side of the characters in both roles that is fresh and touching. One can only hope that this is not his farewell to cinematic offerings as he has so much indeed to offer, based on these pieces.
A creative and unusual way to interpret a timeless masterpiece.
jsiwek1 October 2012
This interpretation intertwines fantasy, reality, family dynamics, comic relief and accomplished actors in unusual personal and professional interactions. The actors were required to read Hamlet by William Shakespeare in only three days without the usual tools they are used to. This included time for rehearsal, wardrobe, scenery, and personal assistants. It all seemed stressful at first in the dymanics between the actors. However, after a brief period of time they became more connected with each other and the material. This was due to the genius of the creator, producer, director and lead actor, Alex Hyde-White. I would recommend this movie to all those students and professionals who are interested in movies that are uniquely adapted.
Three Days of Hamlet. When reality and fiction collide.
Sadie-Duarte24 July 2012
It is a critical commonplace that Shakespeare's Hamlet is a play that brings to the fore a self-created reality that, through the leading character's changing monologue, becomes the core of evolving consciousness. In this respect, the documentary Three Days of Hamlet, directed by Alex Hyde-White, while displaying Hamlet's inner passions and fears, focuses on family bonds, human feelings, as well as the long-standing dichotomies Nature/Nurture and Nature/Culture where patriarchal values were of utmost importance. In my opinion, this film takes spectators on a journey that shows a different reality that merges with fiction and makes us watch the images 'beyond the canvas': a subtext whose meaning should be unveiled, while letting viewers question not only the psychological issues that the characters display, but also the 'ghosts' of the past that sometimes haunt people's lives. The amazing cast includes Stephanie Powers, Richard Chamberlain, Peter Woodward and Alex Hyde-White, who also plays the role of the actor/manager confronting his father's ghost. They all offer amazing performances that, together with the great editing and brilliant soundtrack, lead us to a delightful , yet thought-provoking world where art is always valued and never forgotten. For this reason, Three Days of Hamlet is a very moving documentary that - due to its invaluable contribution to understanding Shakespeare's Hamlet - should be also considered for academic purposes as it could be enjoyed by many scholars and students alike.
Engaging and Touching
extremes2223 May 2012
Pacino's "Looking for Richard" documentary was an amazing film and an inspiration to try Shakespeare for me so I was very interested to see another documentary/film about putting on Shakespeare. While not the deep exploration of the Bard that Pacino's film was Three Days of Hamlet brought a surprising personal touch that turned into a touching reflection on family and show biz.
In my experience the film had a gradual start that didn't quite capture the crazy pressure of putting up Hamlet in three days however it builds nicely and you really connect with the experience as the days progress. The parallels of Hamlet haunted by the ghost of his father and the actor performing the role living in the shadow of his was particular powerful.
As an actor I was particularly interested in the performances challenges of such a large undertaking with so little preparation. Some performances come together more than others, Iva Hasperger the "over achiever" who memorizes all her lines really connects with the material and goes all in. Alex Hyde-White's passion as the creator of the project really shows in his acting. Despite being burdened with a huge amount of text and having to work off the page, his smooth naturalism punctuated by spontaneous outbursts of energy is very engaging.
The film concludes with very honest and heart warming moments. I don't like a lot of documentaries but this one was very enjoyable.
In my experience the film had a gradual start that didn't quite capture the crazy pressure of putting up Hamlet in three days however it builds nicely and you really connect with the experience as the days progress. The parallels of Hamlet haunted by the ghost of his father and the actor performing the role living in the shadow of his was particular powerful.
As an actor I was particularly interested in the performances challenges of such a large undertaking with so little preparation. Some performances come together more than others, Iva Hasperger the "over achiever" who memorizes all her lines really connects with the material and goes all in. Alex Hyde-White's passion as the creator of the project really shows in his acting. Despite being burdened with a huge amount of text and having to work off the page, his smooth naturalism punctuated by spontaneous outbursts of energy is very engaging.
The film concludes with very honest and heart warming moments. I don't like a lot of documentaries but this one was very enjoyable.
Adding a New Dimension to Shakespeare Classic
earivas-9-7544908 October 2012
The Days of Hamlet has an intriguing blend of the already impressive story about a rushed stage production with the juxtaposition of a personal back story of actor and his father with well-crafted technical excellence. The inclusion of well-established actors raised the interest in the stage production storyline. What separated this film from traditional documentaries is Hyde-White's inner journey on parental relations and his self-discovery. The intertwining of the two stories were provided in engaging and solid pace, accomplished by exceptional editing and smooth nice transitions. The technical excellence found in the cinematography of the stage sequences was amazing. Even if you are not a fan of the theater, this is a film worth viewing for the personal story alone. This film was a finalist in the 2012 Naperville Film Festival.
Insanely Inspirational!
penguinsbysea11 December 2013
What an amazingly brave, imaginative and brilliant idea! I have to give it a massively, enthusiastic "WOW! For someone more romantically inclined like my teenage self, studying 'The Scottish Play' playing Banquo, at school with a less than inspiring teacher, was reason enough to feel less than enthusiastic about another of the tragedies, except of course for Romeo and Juliet, which was dreamily elevated to the sublime, helped along enormously by a deeply romantic crush on Laurence Harvey, the Romeo of the day and heart-throb of all my fellow classmates at my 'girls only' Cotswold Grammar School.
Not difficult to understand then that Hamlet wasn't high on my bucket list until many years later, when seeing it performed in the open air by the Tour de Force Theatre Company in an atmospheric production, set against the splendid back-drop of Arundel Castle in West Sussex, brought it energetically alive. Yet, still, even then, the real spirit of Hamlet evaded me, that is, until I had the amazing good fortune to watch the crazy, chaotic, arguably insane, but incredibly imaginative and totally inspirational production of 'Three Days of Hamlet'. Only then did I first begin to magically hear and unravel the music of the language, to understand and become enthralled by the endlessly rich story of the noble Prince of Denmark in a production which eclipses anything I have ever seen.
Alex Hyde-White has created a uniquely compelling, profound, frantic, exhausting, exceptionally brave and brilliant portrait of this deeply emotional play which will, without doubt, open up the minds and hearts of school children the world over who are studying Hamlet; it could change their world if only they had the opportunity to see it. The multi dimensional concept of this ingenious production is totally captivating as we see two stories running parallel, giving us a fascinating and intimate insight into the real lives, vulnerabilities, insecurities and strengths of the phenomenal cast as they take on their roles and tell the story. As always, Richard Chamberlain is powerfully magnificent, Stephanie Powers, Iva Hasperger, Alex Hyde-White Tom Badal all superb as is the whole cast. 'To thy own self be true!' Alex Hyde-White, your father would be so proud; your vision of Hamlet is a triumph! You, and your wonderful cast have enriched my life making me adore Hamlet and for that, I salute you.
Not difficult to understand then that Hamlet wasn't high on my bucket list until many years later, when seeing it performed in the open air by the Tour de Force Theatre Company in an atmospheric production, set against the splendid back-drop of Arundel Castle in West Sussex, brought it energetically alive. Yet, still, even then, the real spirit of Hamlet evaded me, that is, until I had the amazing good fortune to watch the crazy, chaotic, arguably insane, but incredibly imaginative and totally inspirational production of 'Three Days of Hamlet'. Only then did I first begin to magically hear and unravel the music of the language, to understand and become enthralled by the endlessly rich story of the noble Prince of Denmark in a production which eclipses anything I have ever seen.
Alex Hyde-White has created a uniquely compelling, profound, frantic, exhausting, exceptionally brave and brilliant portrait of this deeply emotional play which will, without doubt, open up the minds and hearts of school children the world over who are studying Hamlet; it could change their world if only they had the opportunity to see it. The multi dimensional concept of this ingenious production is totally captivating as we see two stories running parallel, giving us a fascinating and intimate insight into the real lives, vulnerabilities, insecurities and strengths of the phenomenal cast as they take on their roles and tell the story. As always, Richard Chamberlain is powerfully magnificent, Stephanie Powers, Iva Hasperger, Alex Hyde-White Tom Badal all superb as is the whole cast. 'To thy own self be true!' Alex Hyde-White, your father would be so proud; your vision of Hamlet is a triumph! You, and your wonderful cast have enriched my life making me adore Hamlet and for that, I salute you.
the show "Three Days of Hamlet were not only enjoyable but educational as well.
w_tchyw_m_n10 April 2013
"Three Days of Hamlet" was a wonderful interpretation of Shakespeare's Hamlet done in only three days. Two of those three days were in rehearsal with a cast of well known and not as well known actors that had never worked together. So with this cast of virtually strangers the play was presented before an audience on the third day. Alex Hyde-White not only directed but was Hamlet in the production. This Hamlet based fantasy documentary that showed the relationship between fathers and sons,mothers and uncles and nature and nurture.Alex drew on the relationship he had, while growing up,with his own father. Wilfred Hyde-White was in his 50's when Alex was born. I enjoyed this production of Hamlet very much. Hamlet is one of Shakespears more difficult plays to understand but with this documentary it made it a little bit clearer. It brought to light that Shakespeares works are universal not just for the British.Everyone at sometime in their life will read Shakespeare. This DVD would be an excellent tool in schools for helping in literature and theater as a way of getting to understand Shakespears meanings. I believe anyone who has read or acted in Hamlet would enjoy this presentation.
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