Branagh's Soliloquy Analysis

The “To Be Or Not To Be” speech in the play Hamlet displays the difficulty Hamlet has with his emotions. Both Kenneth Branagh and Michael Almereyda’s interpretation of the speech capture the powerful soliloquy giving us a unique window introducing a deeper understanding of Hamlet. Both Interpretations give varying expression and emotions, however Kenneth Branagh produced a more vivid, and emotional recreation of the scene with his superior use of camera angles, body structure, music, and a more fitting setting.
The scenery and overall characterization of Hamlet in Kenneth Branagh’s interpretation complements Hamlet's character and his emotional situation. In Branagh's scene, the setting combined with its surroundings complement a believable royal palace,
Branagh’s use of a build up of music creates an intense mood. As Hamlet contemplates about ending it, the build up of the beat allows for the viewer to understand the intense situation rather than listening to a long monotone speech like the Almereyda interpretation. The acting in Branagh’s interpretation portrayed Hamlet the best, as he was far superior in getting into character. Branagh captures the audience’s attention by starting off with a powerful, yet calm voice saying “To Be Or Not To Be” and continues to grab attention as he uses body language to demonstrate his emotions. In Almereyda’s interpretation, Ethan Hawke uses the same monotone voice throughout the soliloquy, mindlessly walking around not expressing any emotion, not capturing the true mental state Hamlet is in. Branagh illustrates Hamlet’s character more effectively than Almereyda does, in Branagh’s interpretation Hamlet looks wealthy and established as he introduces himself into the scene. He is well dressed, rather than Ethan Hawke’s attire in Almereyda’s interpretation who is wearing a beanie and a normal coat, coming off as a simple