Review of Hamlet 2 (2008) by Nathan T — 13 Apr 2013

In the world of independent filmmaking, there are always note worthy projects, but rarely a masterpiece. Hamlet 2 is the exception. Not only is it extremely funny, over the top, politically incorrect, sacreligious, and offensive, but it's got an incredible heart.

The story is about failed actor turned teacher, Dana Marchsz(pronounced Mar-se-zhe, played excellently by the brilliant Steve Coogan) and how he must turn his class of rebellious latinos into a star studded cast for his original play, Hamlet 2.

Wait, wait, wait, doesn't everybody die at the end of Hamlet? Well, yes, and that's the gimmick. Usually gimmicks tend to make me cringe whenever they're used, but this film uses the Hamlet 2 gimmick creatively and ingeniously.

Not to give too much away, but there's time machines, gay mens choruses, and jesus. Needless to say, the school board and many parents don't approve of the content in the show, so an anti-semetic lawyer named Cricket(hilariously portrayed by Amy Poehler) comes to the rescue and the show is allowed to be staged, not at the school, but in a run down train yard.

Let's be grateful that the filmmakers(Andrew Fleming and Pam Brady) aren't interested in showing us the entire play, just bits and pieces. The musical numbers, including 'Rock Me Sexy Jesus' are exciting and fun, and I dare you to get them unstuck from your head.

Great supportive players include Catherine Keener as Dana's wife, and David Arquette, a dull boarder living with the couple. If you love theatre, you will love Hamlet 2. If you don't love theatre, you'll still understand and hopefully love Hamlet 2.

There will be people who don't like Hamlet 2, and I pity them. This is one of the best films of the year, and one of the funniest in years.