Discovering Hamlet

Plot Summary

IN 1988, rising star Kenneth Branagh tackled the role of Shakespeare’s prince of Denmark for the first time in his professional career under the guidance of celebrated actor Derek Jacobi. Narrated by Patrick Stewart, this hour-long film documents how Kenneth Branagh and Derek Jacobi, two intelligent and passionate men, found new depths in Shakespeare’s classic drama, Hamlet. Filmmakers Mark Olshaker and Larry Klein follow the company through four weeks of rehearsals, from the first read-throughs to opening night.

Top Cast

Derek Jacobi Himself

Kenneth Branagh Himself / Hamlet

Richard Easton Himself / Claudius

Patrick Stewart Narrator

Richard Clifford Himself / Horatio