Altitude Media Group has taken a bold step by boarding a documentary that was shot entirely inside the world of Grand Theft Auto. This unconventional project, titled Grand Theft Hamlet, follows the journey of two out-of-work theater actors, Sam Crane and Mark Oosterveen, who came up with the unique idea of staging a full production of Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ within the virtual realm of Grand Theft Auto 5. What started as a creative experiment during the tedious days of the third Covid-19 lockdown in the UK has now turned into a full-fledged documentary that promises to be both hilarious and deeply moving.
The indie studio Altitude has acquired worldwide rights to Grand Theft Hamlet and is set to release the film in cinemas across the UK and Ireland later this year. The film, which is described as “hilarious and profoundly moving,” is the brainchild of Sam Crane and Pinny Grylls, who not only wrote but also directed the documentary. Altitude Film Sales Managing Director Mike Runagall expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are extremely proud and excited to be partnering with Pinny, Sam, and the whole team on Grand Theft Hamlet and cannot wait for audiences to experience this singular and masterful piece of machinima filmmaking.”
Grand Theft Hamlet is set to have its worldwide premiere at SXSW followed by a European premiere at CPH:DOX. The film’s synopsis paints a picture of the challenges faced by the characters, Sam and Mark, as they navigate through the surreal world of Grand Theft Auto while grappling with the harsh realities of the ongoing pandemic. Their journey, filled with unexpected twists and turns, sheds light on profound truths about life, friendship, and the enduring power of Shakespeare’s works.
The production of Grand Theft Hamlet has brought together a talented team of individuals, including Julia Ton, Rebecca Wolff, and Dean Puckett, who are producing the film in association with Park Pictures. With Jamie Perera on board as the composer and a lineup of esteemed executive producers, the documentary promises to be a unique blend of cinematic artistry and storytelling. Notably, director Pinny Grylls, known for her work in documentaries and ethnography, is making her feature-length directorial debut with Grand Theft Hamlet, showcasing her versatility and creativity in the realm of filmmaking.
Sam Crane, a seasoned video artist, filmmaker, and actor, brings his wealth of experience to the project, having garnered critical acclaim for his roles in various theatrical productions. His counterpart, Mark Oosterveen, adds his unique perspective and talent to the mix, setting the stage for a compelling narrative that promises to captivate audiences worldwide. With a team of dedicated individuals and a vision that defies traditional filmmaking norms, Grand Theft Hamlet is poised to make a mark in the world of cinema with its innovative approach and creative storytelling.