Tony Richardson's Hamlet is based on his own stage production. As a filmed record of a production originally designed for the stage it is not an ideal introduction for those new to the text. Filmed entirely within the Roundhouse in London (a disused train shed) it is shot almost entirely in close up, focusing the attention on faces and language rather than action. Nicol Williamson is a brilliant and idiosyncratic prince, a puritanical intellectual at odds with the sensuality of the new Danish court. Support from Anthony Hopkins, and veteran of Powell and Pressburger films Roger Livesy brings great humanity to the twin roles of travelling actor and the gravedigger.