Rational

When it comes to the topic of movies, specifically short films, every shot counts. Some really stand out in one's mind (the torture scene in Rambo, Tom Hanks' farewell in Saving Private Ryan to name a few). Nothing was left to chance in these shots (pun!);  everything happened for a reason. We tried to have a similar approach for our Hamlet project.

My favorite shot in the entire short was the zoom out to the candle, that also showed the bodkin. I liked that the candle followed the exact rule of thirds and added some great character to the whole shot. The lighting was also fantastic: nothing symbolizes passion quite like fire!

Another shot that I think we all liked was when Hamlet (B) threw off the covers whilst saying "Ay, theres the rub!" Inner eight-grader aside, I think that this moment really depicted unbearable emotion that was held inside of Hamlet. Put yourself in his shoes. You are so exhausted from the days trials, and you finally come to your haven. The bed is calling your name, and you respond with falling onto its padded surface. The warmth of sleep raps around you and make you feel whole, yet the unbearable thoughts of the days injustice seem to burn though the drapes of sleep.

So Hamlet, seared with passion, gets out of bed, and walks over to the fire (symbolizing his passion). As he stokes the flame, his passion only grows deeper, and the thoughts become even more unbearable. He needs fresh air to calm down, so he walks down the steps, and outside into the cold. He brings with him a flame; not only to see but to symbolize the tiny bit of heat that he still carries with him. At the conclusion of the soliloquy he walks back in, a fire still burns within him, yet his thoughts are complete. He has plotted enough for one night. Now it is time for rest.