Born from the depths of the UK’s third Covid lockdown, Grand Theft Hamlet follows Sam, Mark and Pinny as they discover an unconventional refuge in the virtual world of Grand Theft Auto (GTA). With real-world theatres shuttered and acting opportunities scarce, the pair stumble upon the Vinewood Bowl, an abandoned in-game theatre in GTA’s gritty fictional city of Los Santos. Inspired by the setting, they decide to stage a virtual production of Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
The film, shot entirely within GTA, presents Sam, Mark, and Pinny as their in-game avatars, controlled and voiced by their real-world counterparts. The trio’s journey to cast and produce the play unfolds amidst the chaos of Los Santos, with the serious business of holding auditions and rehearsing frequently interrupted by shootouts, explosions, and encounters with violent ‘griefers’—players who disrupt the game for others. Along the way, the actors forge close relationships with a host of GTA players who share their passion for Shakespeare. In one particularly surreal moment, the actors’ production is protected by an in-game guardian dressed as a green alien.
Equal parts absurd, moving, and inspiring, Grand Theft Hamlet explores themes of creativity, resilience, and connection. It has earned critical acclaim for its ambitious concept and poignant storytelling. The film captures the trio’s struggles with their mental health as they battle with how to support their families and manage the crippling isolation of lockdown, while also highlighting the enduring power of Shakespeare’s works to unite and inspire.
Sam hopes the film can shift perspectives on the potential of online gaming spaces. “One of the things we wanted to show is how these virtual environments can foster real-world connection,” he shared. “Amidst all the chaos, there’s this incredible opportunity to bring people together and achieve something meaningful.”
The film has received positive reviews in The Guardian, Empire, IndieWire and The Hollywood Reporter.
Special 'Grand Theft Hamlet' Screening and Q&A in Oxford
You can join Pinny and Producer Rebecca Wolff for a special Q&A screening of Grand Theft Hamlet at Oxford’s Phoenix Picturehouse at 8.30pm on Tuesday 17th December.
