On the Other Hand... Maybe Darkness Is Just too Boring

In my other post about this clip of Hamlet, I discussed how the darkness of the stage and the general lack of props can enhance the viewers experience by focusing all attention on Hamlet himself as he gives his crucial soliloquy. But, on the. Other hand, the darkness of the stage and the lack of good props and symbols could be detracting from the overall performance. Cumberbatch is a phenomenal actor, and he certainly delivers a moving performance, however that’s not to say that it couldn’t be improved were the atmosphere to include more symbolism, more than just a noose in a dark room. Either way, his performance is fantastic. But just like how apples are great alone yet many people consider them to be even better with peanut butter, this play could maybe use a bit more extravagance in the stage.