To be or not to be
The film to be or not to be is typical examples of a play that engage the audience’s mind on deciding on whether to continue living or to quit living. While the motives of the narrator might seem quite dangerous, they help the audience in examining the underlying reasons for making such comments. Based on the focus of the performance of the two films, by Oliver’s and Branagh’s version utilize a similar plot setting of “in Medias res”. Unanimously, both stories begin in the middle of an event’s sequence (Carlo, 00:31:05). For instance, both films, the audiences are unaware of the previous events that led to the utterance of such words.
Similarly, the plays use a narrative hook, where both acts demonstrate the use of a dagger to captivate the reader’s attention so that they can continue watching and figure what happens next. Consequently, in both performances, both narrators’ uses a dramatic visualization to intrigue the mind of their audiences (karldallas 00:03:36). For instance, both films demonstrate the use of a mirror and water to make their stories more imaginative.
Based on the differences, Oliver demonstrates an emotional appeal with typical modes of persuasion to represent sorrow and pity toward the audience. In contrast, Branagh shows full authority through his words describing his courage and firm basis on the positive side (Carlo 00:01:48). Relatively, in Branagh’s act he seems to have an audience on the other end represented by the two gentlemen in the beginning of his speech, unlike Oliver’s act which lacks an audience, but a complete illustration of his thoughts.
From a critical angle, I consider Branagh’s act to be more effective than Oliver’s act. For instance, Branagh demonstrates an effective use of movement and expression in his act as opposed to Oliver. Again, Branagh is more composed in the use of sound while presenting his ideas than Oliver. Also, the lighting effect on Branagh’s act is more captivating and appealing, making the audience to have a good feeling on the performance.
Works Cited
Carlo, Bonaiuti. To Be Or Not To Be – Kenneth Branagh HD (HAMLET). 2013, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjuZq-8PUw0&feature=youtu.be.
Karl Dallas. Olivier’s Hamlet film (1948): To Be Or Not To Be Soliloquy. 2010, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ks-NbCHUns&feature=youtu.be.