'Grand Theft Hamlet' explores Shakespeare in virtual world

The documentary Grand Theft Hamlet brings Shakespeare’s tragedy to life inside Grand Theft Auto Online.

A scene from the film "Grand Theft Hamlet." © MUBI

By Novanka Laras and Adila Ghina

A small group of amateur actors gathers in a mostly empty amphitheater, their avatars standing on a bare stage set against a landscape reminiscent of Southern California. They’re plotting a bold new production of Hamlet, dreaming of filling the empty seats with eager spectators. However, this isn’t a traditional rehearsal space—it’s the virtual world of Grand Theft Auto Online.

Known for its ultraviolence and lawlessness, Grand Theft Auto Online hardly seems like the ideal venue for staging Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy. Yet, Grand Theft Hamlet, a documentary directed by Sam Crane and Pinny Grylls, challenges that assumption, proving that even the most unexpected spaces can foster creativity and community.

The idea for Grand Theft Hamlet emerged during Britain’s third Covid-19 lockdown in early 2021. Out-of-work actors Sam Crane and Mark Oosterveen decided to stage a production of Hamlet in Grand Theft Auto Online, a multiplayer extension of Grand Theft Auto V. Grylls, a filmmaker and Crane’s real-life partner, joined the project to document the endeavor and to spend time with Crane, whose passion for the project had consumed much of his focus during the lockdown.

Filmed entirely within the virtual world, the documentary shows only the avatars of the participants, never their real faces. The result is a fascinating glimpse into the collision of high art and digital chaos.

Grand Theft Auto Online is notorious for its violent gameplay. Set in the fictional dystopia of San Andreas, players navigate a world rife with corruption and chaos, earning power through acts of theft, destruction, and murder. In this environment, the actors face unexpected challenges: random players disrupt rehearsals by shooting characters or throwing grenades, while avatars mill about aimlessly, unintentionally breaking the fourth wall.

Despite the chaos, the production proceeds, drawing humor and poignancy from its setting. Shakespeare’s themes of death, betrayal, and moral conflict feel oddly fitting in a world designed for digital mayhem.

At its core, Grand Theft Hamlet isn’t just about staging a play. It’s a meditation on artistic obsession, community, and the evolving nature of “real” life in a world increasingly shaped by digital interactions. The documentary raises questions about the boundaries of reality and performance, challenging viewers to reconsider what constitutes meaningful human connection.

Like other recent films exploring virtual worlds, such as The Remarkable Life of Ibelin (Netflix) and We Met in Virtual Reality (Max), Grand Theft Hamlet offers a deeply moving exploration of life in digital spaces. These films demonstrate that online platforms are more than mere escapism; they serve as spaces for creativity, connection, and community-building, especially for individuals who feel alienated or restricted in the physical world.

What makes Grand Theft Hamlet so compelling is its testament to the enduring human drive for connection, even in the most unconventional settings. As the actors navigate the challenges of their virtual stage, their passion and dedication shine through, revealing the ways in which art can bring people together.

The documentary also highlights the potential of digital spaces to foster positive interactions. At a time when online platforms are often criticized for enabling toxic behavior, Grand Theft Hamlet offers a hopeful counterpoint, showcasing the power of creativity and collaboration in virtual communities.

Why this documentary matters

Some viewers might question whether Grand Theft Hamlet qualifies as a documentary, given its digital setting. However, the film invites us to expand our understanding of what constitutes documentary filmmaking. By immersing us in the virtual world of Grand Theft Auto Online, the directors create a vivid portrait of life in a space where digital and physical realities intersect.

In an era when much of our communication and interaction happens online, Grand Theft Hamlet feels especially relevant. It encourages viewers to consider not only the challenges of digital life but also its potential to inspire and connect.

Grand Theft Hamlet is a unique and thought-provoking documentary that blends the timeless themes of Shakespeare’s Hamlet with the modern chaos of Grand Theft Auto Online. Through humor, heart, and a touch of absurdity, the film explores the intersections of art, community, and digital existence, leaving viewers with a deeper appreciation for the resilience of creativity in the face of adversity.

For anyone interested in the evolving role of digital spaces in our lives, or simply curious about the idea of staging Shakespeare in a virtual world, Grand Theft Hamlet is a must-watch. It’s a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, the human spirit finds a way to create, connect, and thrive.