Discovering Hamlet (1990): cast, story & where to watch
1990 · Film · ★ 5.7

Released in 1990, Discovering Hamlet is a documentary film directed by Mark Olshaker, running about 52 minutes.
What it’s about. 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.
Who’s in it. Discovering Hamlet stars Derek Jacobi as Himself, Kenneth Branagh as Himself / Hamlet, Richard Easton as Himself / Claudius and Patrick Stewart as Narrator, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.7/10, Discovering Hamlet has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Discovering Hamlet page.
If you liked it. Fans of Discovering Hamlet tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Discovering Hamlet (1990)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Discovering Hamlet change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Discovering Hamlet worth watching?
- Discovering Hamlet holds an audience score of 5.7 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Discovering Hamlet?
- Discovering Hamlet stars Derek Jacobi, Kenneth Branagh, Richard Easton, Patrick Stewart and Richard Clifford.
- When was Discovering Hamlet released?
- Discovering Hamlet was released in 1990, with a runtime of about 52 minutes.