Five characters hanging out in GTA Online, with one hopping off a limo.
The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown spurred unprecedented creativity, but few projects are as unique as Grand Theft Hamlet. This feature-length documentary, filmed entirely within the virtual world of Grand Theft Auto Online, recently won the documentary feature jury award at SXSW and is slated for theatrical and streaming release.
From Virtual Stage to Silver Screen
Mubi, the renowned independent and art house streaming service, has acquired the distribution rights for Grand Theft Hamlet, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The film follows two actors attempting to stage a production of Shakespeare’s Hamlet within the often chaotic environment of GTA Online. A preview clip hints at the challenges they face, navigating a world where instigating virtual violence is often part of the gameplay.
UK Premiere and Global Release
Grand Theft Hamlet will premiere in the U.K. at the BFI London Film Festival before its theatrical release in early 2025. While Mubi hasn’t announced specific dates, their official X (formerly Twitter) post describes the film as “an innovative, immersive take on Shakespeare’s Hamlet.”
A Modern Take on Machinima
Grand Theft Hamlet falls into the machinima genre, similar to the long-running Halo parody Red vs. Blue. Machinima involves filming scenes entirely within a game engine. While less prevalent than during the YouTube and web series boom, machinima still exists. Modern examples include the viral sensation Skibidi Toilet, created using Source Filmmaker and Valve assets.
A Unique Entry in Video Game Cinema
While Grand Theft Hamlet‘s success may not trigger a widespread machinima resurgence, its theatrical release remains a noteworthy event. In an era saturated with video game adaptations, witnessing a game depicted authentically within its own digital environment offers a refreshing perspective. It remains to be seen whether Grand Theft Hamlet will hit theaters before the highly anticipated launch of Grand Theft Auto 6.
Conclusion
Grand Theft Hamlet presents a fascinating intersection of gaming, theater, and filmmaking. Its unique production process, coupled with its critical acclaim, positions it as a must-see for both film enthusiasts and gamers alike. The film’s journey from the virtual world of GTA Online to the silver screen marks a significant moment in the evolution of machinima and its potential as a storytelling medium.
