In a remarkable acquisition move, Mubi has secured both U.S. and global streaming rights for the innovative documentary film “Grand Theft Hamlet,” which boldly blurs the lines between traditional theater and virtual reality gaming. This experimental film skillfully intertwines the dramatic narrative of Shakespeare’s Hamlet with the virtual landscape of Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V). It showcases a cutting-edge approach to storytelling that has captured the attention of audiences and critics alike.
The documentary, directed by the creative duo Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane, ventures into uncharted territory by depicting two actors striving to adapt and perform Hamlet amid the constraints of the stringent 2021 COVID lockdowns. Faced with extraordinary circumstances, the actors seek to overcome the obstacles of the pandemic by choosing to stage their production entirely within the digital confines of GTA V. The film delves into the actors’ innovative journey, capturing both the challenges and triumphs they encounter as they transform the well-known narrative of betrayal, revenge, and tragedy against the backdrop of the digital realm.
“Grand Theft Hamlet” made its debut at the prestigious SXSW festival earlier this year, where it did not only captivate the audience but also claimed the documentary feature jury award. Its engaging and unique approach to fusing classic literature with modern digital gaming has earned it significant praise. By operating at this intersection of art and technology, the documentary highlights the resilience of creativity in the face of adversity and offers a new perspective on how classic narratives can be continually redefined in the digital age.
Following its successful premiere and critical acclaim at SXSW, “Grand Theft Hamlet” is scheduled for its U.K. debut at the BFI London Film Festival on October 15.
. An exclusive screening is also planned at the iconic BFI Imax on October 20, offering a special opportunity for audiences to experience the film on the big screen. Mubi, known for its curated streaming service that presents a varied selection of independent and arthouse cinema, intends to make the film available on its platform globally at the beginning of 2025, with additional distribution details to be announced as the release date approaches.
This acquisition reinforces Mubi’s commitment to expanding its investment in both theatrical releases and digital streaming. Following recent successes, such as Coralie Fargeat’s “The Substance,” which grossed close to $10 million in domestic markets, Mubi continues to capitalize on its strategic acquisitions. Recent procurements by Mubi include high-profile titles like Queer, featuring Daniel Craig, and Alex Ross Perry’s music documentary Pavements.
Moreover, Mubi’s continuous pursuit of distinctive cinematic experiences has propelled it towards acquiring noteworthy selections from international film festivals. These include Bird by Andrea Arnold and Magnus von Horn’s Cannes selection “The Girl With the Needle.” Such strategic expansions underline Mubi’s ambition to enhance its offerings with films that challenge conventional storytelling and engage a diverse audience.
Mubi’s acquisition of “Grand Theft Hamlet,” alongside its existing and upcoming slate of films, represents a significant moment in the evolution of filmmaking and streaming within the ever-changing landscape of digital media. It underscores a growing trend in the film industry towards embracing new technologies and narratives that push traditional boundaries. Through this documentary, audiences around the world will witness a unique melding of classical storytelling with contemporary digital platforms, showcasing the potential for high art within everyday technological environments.
As Mubi prepares to release “Grand Theft Hamlet,” the film promises to be more than a simple adaptation of Shakespeare—it offers a commentary on resilience, innovation, and the enduring power of art to connect humanity even in times of isolation. In doing so, it serves as an emblem of creativity’s ability to adapt and thrive, no matter the limitations faced. As we move towards 2025, audiences can look forward to an immersive experience that challenges perceptions and highlights the dynamic possibilities at the intersection of literature, theater, and digital gaming.
