Faithfulness to the Original Text:
- Shakespeare's version: It remains mostly faithful to the original text written by William Shakespeare in the 17th century. The language, characters, plot, and structure are largely unchanged.
- Zeffirelli's version: Franco Zeffirelli took a more interpretive approach, cutting down some of the text, rearranging certain scenes, and slightly modernizing the language to make it more accessible to contemporary audiences.
Setting and Period:
- Shakespeare's version: Traditionally set in medieval Denmark, with references to castles, courtiers, and historical events appropriate to the original time period.
- Zeffirelli's version: Zeffirelli chose to transpose the story to a more specific 19th-century setting, complete with Victorian fashion, décor, and architecture, resulting in a more visually opulent production.
Visual Style and Cinematic Techniques:
- Shakespeare's version: Often staged in a theatrical manner, focusing on the language and performances, with relatively simple set designs and minimal use of cinematic techniques.
- Zeffirelli's version: Zeffirelli's film fully embraces the cinematic medium, employing grand visuals, dynamic camerawork, and editing to enhance the storytelling and create a visually immersive experience.
Interpretation of Characters:
- Shakespeare's version: Actors have much freedom to interpret the characters according to their understanding of the text and theatrical tradition.
- Zeffirelli's version: Zeffirelli's casting and direction brought a specific vision to the characters, such as Mel Gibson's intense and emotional portrayal of Hamlet or Helena Bonham Carter's unique depiction of Ophelia.
Emphasis on Certain Themes:
- Shakespeare's version: Explores universal themes such as revenge, morality, madness, and political corruption without overt emphasis on any particular one.
- Zeffirelli's version: Zeffirelli's adaptation is often seen as exploring themes related to social class, family dynamics, and existential angst more prominently.
Despite these differences, both the Shakespeare and Zeffirelli versions hold significance in their interpretations of Hamlet and remain essential viewing for those interested in exploring different aspects of this timeless theatrical masterpiece.