It’s been well over 400 years since the world was introduced to Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” And in those years, we’ve probably been exposed to just as many film and TV versions of the classic story. But yet, it’s 2019 and we are destined for at least one more, as IFC Films is preparing to release “Ophelia.”
As seen in the trailer for the film, “Ophelia” is a different take on “Hamlet.” Instead of focusing on the typical hero of the story, the young Prince Hamlet, the new film focuses on his love interest, Ophelia. Things get complicated for the titular woman when the King dies, leaving Hamlet in a fight for the throne.
The film stars Daisy Ridley, Naomi Watts, Clive Owen, George MacKay, and Tom Felton. “Ophelia” was written by Semi Chellas and directed by Claire McCarthy.
“Ophelia” arrives in select theaters on June 28 and on VOD on July 7.
Here’s the synopsis:
One of the world’s greatest dramas is turned on its head through a bold and new perspective. Set in medieval Denmark and spoken in a modern tongue with a poetic twist, it recalibrates the classic Shakespearean tragedy of “Hamlet” so that its unspoken, complex heroine may share her own story. As a rebellious and motherless child, Ophelia (Daisy Ridley) is taken into Elsinore Castle by Queen Gerturde (Naomi Watts) as one of her most trusted ladies-in-waiting. Soon enough, Ophelia captures the affections of the young Prince Hamlet (George MacKay). A passionate romance kindles between the two in secret as the kingdom is on the brink of war amidst its own political intrigue and betrayal. When Hamlet’s father is murdered and the prince’s wits begin to unravel into an insatiable quest for vengeance, Ophelia sharply navigates the rules of power in Denmark all while struggling to choose between her true love and her own life.