Meaning And Techniques In Kenneth Branagh's Hamlet

Kenneth Branagh’s Hamlet is shot with bright lighting in the 19th-century palace ballroom. Through costuming and lighting, Branagh’s Hamlet immerses the audience. Yet, David Tennant delivers his soliloquy in a dimly lit throne room. The dim lights and simple costuming allow the audience to maintain attention on Hamlet’s internal debate. In both scenes, the costuming, lighting, and camera angles draw in the viewer. Yet, Tennant's Hamlet is able to go a step further and captures the idea that Hamlet is truly debating with himself.

The use of lighting in Branagh’s and Tennent’s scenes contrast greatly. As Branagh enters the ballroom, the lighting of the setting remains generally well lit. For this scene, lighting is key to showing the viewer