Grand Theft Hamlet

Documentary Film Acquired for UK-Ireland Release

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Tull Stories has acquired the award-winning documentary "Grand Theft Hamlet" for a UK-Ireland cinema release.

Film Details

The film will screen previews on Monday, December 2 as part of the BFI-backed Escapes programme, supporting independent film releases, before a UK-Ireland release on December 6. It will have its UK premiere at the BFI London Film Festival on October 15, with a special preview at the BFI Imax on October 20. The film will then continue its festival tour, including Bath, Rome, Cambridge, Leeds, and IDFA, ahead of its UK-Ireland launch.

Production and Reception

Made during the Covid pandemic, "Grand Theft Hamlet" follows two out-of-work actors attempting to mount a production of "Hamlet" inside the ultra-violent online videogame. The film won the documentary feature jury award at SXSW and has gone on to play at festivals including Hot Docs, CPH:DOX, Visions du Reel, Melbourne, and Sitges, winning best documentary film at the latter.

Filmmakers and Production Team

The film is a feature documentary debut for UK filmmakers Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane. Grylls was one of three recipients of the BFI & Chanel Luminous Gala Filmmaker Award earlier this month. The film is produced by Julia Ton of Project 1961 and Rebecca Wolff of Grasp The Nettle, and financed by BFI Doc Society, alongside Park Pictures, Altitude, and Spark Features. Altitude Film Sales handles worldwide sales.

Distribution and Release

Jonny Tull of Tull Stories describes the film as "one of the most affecting films about the human condition, the need for companionship, and the quest for art that I’ve ever seen." Mubi acquired US distribution rights and global streaming rights to the film last week, and will release it on its streaming platform in early 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the film about?
A: "Grand Theft Hamlet" is a documentary that follows two out-of-work actors attempting to mount a production of "Hamlet" inside the ultra-violent online videogame.

Q: Who is behind the film?
A: The film is a feature documentary debut for UK filmmakers Pinny Grylls and Sam Crane. Grylls was one of three recipients of the BFI & Chanel Luminous Gala Filmmaker Award earlier this month.

Q: How can I see the film?
A: The film will screen at various festivals, including the BFI London Film Festival, and will be available on Mubi’s streaming platform in early 2025.