Staged Production of 'Hamlet' in GTA V Gets a Documentary

A staged production of "Hamlet" inside Grand Theft Auto (GTA) V has been picked up as a documentary by film company Altitude Media Group.

The documentary was shot inside the world of GTA V and will follow the story of out-of-work theater actors Sam Crane and Mark Oosterveen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 Lockdown Sparks Inspiration to Stage 'Hamlet' in GTA V

During the COVID-19 lockdown in the U.K., Crane and Oosterveen had an idea to stage a full production of Shakespeare's "Hamlet" inside GTA V. Back then, the duo had been using their time inside their houses to play the game, leading to the creation of the stage.

"This film charts their ridiculous, hilarious, and moving adventure as they battle violent griefers and discover surprising truths about life, friendship, and the enduring power of Shakespeare," the synopsis stated.

During the lockdown, several gamers had a chance to explore their creativity across gaming. Outside the GTA V community, Fallout 76 players also formed a group called The Wasteland Theatre Company, which produced a recreation of the classic "A Midsummer Night's Dream."

GTA V-Based Documentary's Worldwide Release

Indie studio Altitude purchased the worldwide rights and announced that the film will be released in the U.K. and Irish cinemas later this year.

The "Grand Theft Hamlet" will have its worldwide premiere at SXSW on March 10 and will hold its European premiere at CPH: DOX. The film was written and directed by Crane, along with director Pinny Grylls.

"We are extremely proud and excited to be partnering with Pinny, Sam, and the whole team on Grand Theft Hamlet and cannot wait for audiences to experience this singular and masterful piece of machinima filmmaking," said Mike Runagall, Altitude Film's sales managing director.