Friday, February 5, 2010

Being Shakespeare

As I work on my novel this afternoon I'm watching Hamlet with Kenneth Branagh. I am completely in awe of Shakespeare, the power of his lines so beautifully and passionately rendered. I have paused from writing more than a few times to feel the lines as they are spoken. Here is Branagh delivering the Soliloquy:



Kenneth Branagh and the entire cast, including Kate Winslet in the role of Ophelia, are awesome. (It's about time Winslet won an Oscar for The Reader. She's a fine actor.) There are many captivating moments in this production of Hamlet. Watch this:



The cast delivers stunning performances. But, of course, Shakespeare had to first write stellar lines.

8 comments:

gcmoss said...

I just love your statement about yourself, your philosophy, and what you are up to in the world. You are a kindred spirit. I have a degree in Music Therapy, but that does not make me a Music Therapist. I am a Music Therapist because since I could speak, I sang to people, animals and nature. I am 51 and I am still singing and making music with the world around me, sharing joy and healing from the depths of my soul. By the way, I LOVE KENNETH BRANAGH, and have watch the 4 hour Hamlet many, many times. It moves me to terror, tears, and laughter (as most of Shakespeare does).

Judith Ellis said...

Welcome, gcmoss. I am happy that you are here. Love that you're in music therapy and that you can speak and sing to "people, animals and nature." And, "I LOVE KENNETH BRANAGH" and KATE WINSLET. I have watched the Hamlet production many times and absolutely love it! Just went to your blog. I see that you have not posted anything there yet. Thanks for your kind words. They're appreciated. Do pass through again.

septembermom said...

Judith, I'm having a very hectic day, so it was a true treat for me to come here and get a taste of Shakespeare. This movie version of Hamlet is my favorite. I love Branagh's fire and whimsy at times. Terrific portrayals by all. Hope all is well Judith. I'm glad to hear that your writing is moving along nicely. Peace and love to you my dear friend.

Judith Ellis said...

All is well, my dear friend. I hope the same for you. I also send peace and love to you.

Anonymous said...

OK, the last time I watched that version of Hamlet, I was 16. He is a good actor, but the length of that video made me wanna shoot myself.

I've read Hamlet 2x and watched it performed many times - really like it, but still.
lol.

Judith Ellis said...

LOL, Meena!

gcmoss said...

Judith! You have inspired me. I started a Blog this morning. I am so excited. I write continually but have yet to be published. So at least I can have a place to see my words reaching out to those who will listen. I hope you will read my statement about myself. It is really about all of us!

gcmossraves.blogspot.com

Judith Ellis said...

Great! I am happy that you have begun a blog and look forward to popping in. Heading over there now.