To Be Hamlet (1985): cast, story & where to watch
1985 · Film

Released in 1985, To Be Hamlet is a documentary film, running about 99 minutes.
What it’s about. Documentary examination of the role of Hamlet, in which ten prominent actors who have played the part discuss Hamlet's personality, Shakespeare's play, and the enduring popular fascination it has inspired. The actors interviewed are Laurence Olivier, John Gielgud, Richard Burton, Nicol Williamson, Ben Kingsley, Jean Louis Barrault, Vittorio Gassman, Maximilian Schell, Innocenti Smoktunovsky, and Mandy Patinkin. Includes excerpts from various film and television versions of Hamlet, featuring these actors and others.
Who’s in it. To Be Hamlet stars Laurence Olivier as Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton as Richard Burton, John Gielgud as John Gielgud and Nicol Williamson as Nicol Williamson, among others.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch To Be Hamlet page.
If you liked it. Fans of To Be 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 To Be Hamlet (1985)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for To Be Hamlet change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Who stars in To Be Hamlet?
- To Be Hamlet stars Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton, John Gielgud, Nicol Williamson and Ben Kingsley.
- When was To Be Hamlet released?
- To Be Hamlet was released in 1985, with a runtime of about 99 minutes.