Watch Ophelia

Ophelia is a movie that brings to life the classic Shakespearean play, Hamlet, from a new perspective. The movie tells the story of Ophelia, played by Daisy Ridley, who is Hamlet's love interest in the original play. However, in this movie, she is the main character and her story is given the spotlight. The story starts with Ophelia as a young girl who is taken in by Queen Gertrude, played by Naomi Watts, and becomes her lady-in-waiting. As she grows up, she catches the eye of Prince Hamlet, played by George MacKay, and they begin a forbidden love affair.

As the political landscape of Denmark gets more complicated, Ophelia finds herself in the center of it all. When King Hamlet dies and his brother Claudius, played by Clive Owen, takes the throne, the power struggle begins. Ophelia is tasked with spying on Hamlet and reporting back to Claudius, putting her in a difficult position.

The movie takes a few creative liberties with the original play, providing a refreshing and unique perspective. The storyline has been reworked to focus on Ophelia's side of the story and her experiences throughout the events of Hamlet. This means that familiar characters like Hamlet and Gertrude take a back seat, but the story never forgets they are important.

Throughout the movie, Ophelia faces numerous challenges as she tries to navigate her way through a dangerous and politically charged world. There are moments of suspense, action, and romance, as well as moments of heartbreak as Ophelia struggles to keep her head above water in a sea of treachery and deceit.

One of the most striking features of the movie is its cinematography. The movie is set in medieval Denmark and showcases beautiful landscapes that are both breathtaking and haunting. The costumes are also noteworthy, with rich and ornate designs that add to the atmosphere and feel of the movie.

Valorie Curry, who plays Queen Gertrude, is a standout in the cast. She brings a commanding presence to the screen and delivers an exceptional performance. However, the real star of the show is Daisy Ridley, who shines in her portrayal of Ophelia. She brings depth and nuance to the character, making her relatable and sympathetic.

The movie's pacing is a bit slow at times, but this allows the viewer to become fully immersed in the world that director Claire McCarthy has created. The slower pace also serves to build tension, making the movie's twists and turns all the more impactful when they occur.

Overall, Ophelia is a beautifully crafted and well-acted movie that provides a fresh take on a classic tale. It delivers a compelling story that is both familiar and new, making it a must-see for fans of Shakespeare and those who enjoy historical dramas.