Now out on Blu-ray for the first time the comedy drama Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead takes its turn at providing a clear and clean presentation of an oldie on home video. The film is a must see for those who like Shakespeare or just a film buff wanting to see one of the best theatre to screen movies. This 25th anniversary edition contains interviews with cast and director Tom Stoppard.
Rosencrantz (Gary Oldman) and Guildenstern (Tim Roth) are summand to the castle by the King Claudius (Donald Sumpter) and Queen Gertrude (Joanna Miles) of Denmark to witness the disarray by the disheartened Lord Hamlet (Iain Glenn) over the lovely Ophelia (Joanna Roth). Upon arriving they are graciously welcomed and attended to then left alone to wander the palace in an attempt to figure out what task the King has set for them. During their stay they are entertained by a troop of tragedians, traveling dramatic actors led by The Player (Richard Dreyfus) who specialize in Shakespearian type of tragedy. Witnessing the ravings of and after an unfortunate incident caused by Hamlet, the two guests Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are commissioned to take Hamlet to England where he will be put to death. And that’s mostly in the beginning.
Well that’s what I found the film to be about, and I believe it’s not too far from anyone else’s description of the Play turned into this film. Director Tom Stoppard puts together a very comedic and wicked drama that would make Shakespeare turn over in his grave, but that’s a good thing. His characters are directed to resemble the likes of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy or Bud Abbott and Lou Costello both duos that specialize in deadpan and slapstick comedy. I like what he did with the two leads and yet keeping it in the style of a Shakespeare play.
The film may have been made in 1991, but still holds up to its unique style and inventive story. And if you are a fan of the Bard you should pick up a copy on Blu-ray just for giggles and grins. Seeing Gary Oldman, Tim Roth and Ricard Dreyfus in their youth and able to witness excellent performances by them is an added treat.
BONUS FEATURES:
The disc has four bonus features that are interviews with Director/writer Tom Stoppard (1 hour), Gary Oldman (1 hour), Tim Roth (30 minutes) and Richard Dreyfus (45 minutes). They talk about getting their role in the film, working with director Tom Stoppard and about their careers since working on the film.
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead has been rated PG by the MPAA and contains some rude references. Budding actors should watch these consummate actors in their early roles to get the feel of character development in movies.
FINAL ANALYSIS: A fun film for those who crave Shakespearian drama/comedy and film buffs. (B)
Specifications and additional video information:
Cast: Gary Oldman, Tim Roth, Richard Dreyfus, Donald Sumpter, Joanna Miles, Iain Glenn,
Director and screen writer: Tom Stoppard
MPAA Rating: PG
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Running Time: 1 hr. 58 min.
Original Theatrical Release Date: February 8, 1991
Video Release Date: January 12, 2016
Language: English
Reviewed Format: Blu-ray
Audio: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0
Video: Widescreen Aspect Ration 1.85:1
Subtitles: English SDH
Number of Discs: 1 Disc
Distributed by: RJL Entertainment
Writer, critic, film editor John Delia, Sr. has been on all sides of the movie business from publications to film making. He has worked as a film critic with ACED Magazine for more than 20 years and other publications for a total of 40 years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Florida. John is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association and Critics Association of Central Florida Send John a message at jdelia@acedmagazine.com
