Title: Why the 1996 (1995) Branagh Hamlet is the DEFINITIVE Classic Version
Description: Is the 1996 Kenneth Branagh version of Hamlet better than the rest? Absolutely. While many consider Laurence Olivier’s 1948 film the "classic," Branagh’s 1995/1996 adaptation is superior for three reasons:
Verdict: If you want a classic that feels both timeless and cinematic, the 1995/1996 version is simply better. #Hamlet #KennethBranagh #Shakespeare
Most stage-to-film adaptations feel claustrophobic. Olivier’s Hamlet is a masterpiece of film noir shadow, but it feels like a studio-bound dream. Zeffirelli’s version is a muddy, medieval pastiche.
Branagh shot his Hamlet in 70mm — a format reserved for epics like Lawrence of Arabia. He sets the Danish court in the opulent Blenheim Palace, a real Baroque castle. The result is staggering.
This visual scale justifies the runtime. You aren’t watching a filmed play; you are entering a complete, breathing world. That is what “better” looks like.
When cinephiles and literature students search for the "classic Hamlet xxx 1995 better," they are usually looking for validation of a specific, burning opinion: That the full-text, sprawling, star-studded adaptation from the mid-90s is the definitive version of Shakespeare’s tragedy. While the date is often misremembered (the film premiered in late 1996), the sentiment remains. Is Kenneth Branagh’s Hamlet better than the revered Laurence Olivier version (1948), Franco Zeffirelli’s romantic take (1990, with Mel Gibson), or even modern updates like Michael Almereyda’s 2000 adaptation?
The short answer is yes. Here is the long argument for why the 1996 Hamlet (often incorrectly searched as 1995) remains the superior “classic” cinematic interpretation.
For X (Twitter): Unpopular opinion: The classic 1995/1996 Branagh Hamlet is better than Olivier’s version. The full text, the 70mm cinematography, and that insane cast make every other cut feel like a cliff notes summary. Discuss. 👇
For Reddit (r/movies or r/shakespeare): Title: It’s time to admit the 1995/1996 Kenneth Branagh Hamlet is the better classic.
Body: I rewatched the 1948 Hamlet last night, and while it’s a classic for a reason, I think people forget how good the 1996 Branagh version is. Yes, it’s four hours long, but it earns every minute.
Why it’s better:
Don’t let the runtime scare you. The 1995/1996 version is the definitive classic. Agree or disagree?
When discussing mid-1990s adaptations of William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," conversations often center on the ambitious 1996 film directed by Kenneth Branagh, which followed closely after the 1990 Mel Gibson version. The mid-90s period was a significant time for Shakespearean cinema, focusing on bringing the complexity of the Prince of Denmark to modern audiences. Notable Aspects of 1990s Hamlet Adaptations
Cinematic Scope: Films from this era, particularly the 1996 production, were noted for their grand scale, using opulent settings like Blenheim Palace to reflect the political weight of the story.
Textual Fidelity: This era saw a push for "full-text" versions, moving away from the heavy editing common in earlier stage and screen versions to capture every nuance of the original dialogue.
Psychological Depth: Directors during this time explored the internal turmoil of Hamlet, Ophelia, and Gertrude with a focus on psychological realism and the intense emotional bonds within the royal family.
Ophelia’s Arc: Modern interpretations often seek to provide more agency to Ophelia, highlighting her descent into madness as a critique of the patriarchal constraints of the Danish court.
While different versions of the play offer varying interpretations—ranging from traditional stage performances to experimental modern settings—the adaptations from the mid-90s remain a popular point of comparison for scholars and fans of the Bard's work.
Olivier played Hamlet as a dreamy, indecisive intellectual (and famously played him as an Oedipal mess—Freud would be proud). Branagh? He’s a blonde, athletic, weeping, laughing, volcanic force of nature. His Hamlet isn't just sad—he’s manic. He bounces off the walls, slashes through tapestries, and when he confronts his mother, it’s genuinely terrifying. You believe this man could accidentally kill Polonius and command a pirate ship.
Is Branagh’s Hamlet perfect? No. The decision to add flashbacks (the murder of Old Hamlet shown explicitly) undermines the ghost’s mystery. The 70mm grandeur can occasionally feel more like a museum than a dungeon. And four hours is a marathon for a modern viewer.
But when you search for a “classic Hamlet 1995 better,” you are looking for the version that respects the source material most, delivers the highest performances, and uses cinema to expand the play rather than shrink it.
Kenneth Branagh’s Hamlet (1996 – often mislabeled 1995) is, without question, the better classic.
It is the War and Peace of Shakespeare films. It is the version teachers should show in class. It is the version actors study for soliloquy delivery. And it is the version that, despite its length, leaves you breathless at the tragic beauty of “The rest is silence.”
Final Recommendation: Find the 1996 four-hour cut. Clear your evening. Turn off your phone. Watch it in one sitting. You will never need another Hamlet again.
If you were searching for something entirely different under the term "xxx," this article stands as a corrective: The best Hamlet is not hidden behind adult filters. It is hiding in plain sight, waiting for you to invest four hours of your life. Do it.
While there isn't a single definitive academic paper that compares "classic"
to the 1995 version and declares one "better," research and criticism typically focus on the performance differences and cultural shifts between traditional interpretations and the mid-90s adaptations. The 1995 Context In 1995, there were two major, contrasting versions of that scholars often analyze: Ralph Fiennes (Stage/Broadway):
This was a highly acclaimed stage production directed by Jonathan Kent. Scholars and critics, such as those featured in The Guardian
, often highlight Fiennes' portrayal for its lean, focused, and emotionally intense energy, which modern audiences sometimes find "better" or more relatable than the more declamatory "classic" styles of the mid-20th century. Hamlet: For Love of Ophelia
This was a 1995 adult adaptation (XXX) directed by Luca Damiano. Discussion on forums like Reddit's r/TrueFilm
often critiques it not as "better" Shakespeare, but as a curiosity of 90s erotic cinema, noting that its "enthusiastic pantomimes" and production values leave much to be desired compared to the narrative depth of the original play. Academic Perspectives on "Better" Interpretations classic hamlet xxx 1995 better
Academic papers generally avoid the word "better," instead focusing on: Gender and Power: Papers like Cultural Anxiety and the Female Body
compare 90s-era directing choices (like Franco Zeffirelli’s) to the original text, arguing that modern "liberal" takes sometimes strip female characters of power compared to the classic Shakespearean text. Victimization: Research on Ophelia and Gertrude
examines how modern critiques give more attention to marginalized characters, which some scholars argue provides a "better" or more complete understanding of the tragedy than traditional male-centric readings. Translation and Adaptation: Some studies, such as those found on ResearchGate
, look at how translation strategies (some noted as late as 1995) evolved to handle complex metaphors more effectively than older versions. ResearchGate
If you meant a different film (e.g., a 1995 version of Hamlet with a different title), please let me know, and I will rewrite it.
In the world of skateboarding, progression is usually measured in technicality and danger. However, there is a vocal contingent of purists who argue that the raw, unfiltered energy of the mid-90s remains unmatched. Specifically, the 1995/1996 output featuring Tim O'Connor—often revered as the "Hamlet" of skateboarding for his contemplative style and Philly swagger—is frequently cited as being "better" than today’s polished landscape.
The Raw Aesthetic vs. The Ultra-HD To understand why 1995 is often deemed "better," one must look at the format. Modern skate videos are often cinematic masterpieces, shot in 4K with drones and color grading. In contrast, the 1995 footage was shot on Hi-8 and VX1000 cameras. It was grainy, shaky, and immediate. When Tim O'Connor rolled up to a spot in Philadelphia, there was no perfect lighting crew. There was just the clack of urethane on bricks and the hum of the city. The "Hamlet" style of this era wasn't about performing for a lens; it was about performing for the street. Fans argue this grittiness makes the skating feel more tangible and "better" because it felt attainable yet effortlessly cool.
The Longevity of the Lines Why do fans claim the "Classic Hamlet" 1995 style is better than the technical wizardry of today? It comes down to timelessness. Modern skating often relies on "flavor of the week" tricks—insanely complex flip-in, flip-out combos that age quickly. The 1995 style championed by O'Connor focused on style, speed, and power. A simple backside tailslide executed with the "Hamlet" drapery—loose clothes, low center of gravity, arms swinging—looks arguably "better" today than a tre-flip backside 5-0 did in 2015. The mid-90s approach prioritized how a trick felt to the viewer, prioritizing flow over difficulty.
The Philly Factor The "Classic Hamlet" era coincided with the rise of East Coast skating. While the 90s were dominated by the sunny spots of California, the 1995 footage from the East Coast—specifically Love Park in Philadelphia—offered a grittier narrative. The ground was rougher, the security was tighter, and the weather was harsher. This backdrop gave the skating a weight that modern, skatepark-heavy videos often lack. The argument for 1995 being "better" is rooted in the adversity of the environment. To skate like Hamlet in 1995 meant battling the elements, resulting in a raw, emotional output that modern sanitization struggles to replicate.
The Verdict To say that "Classic Hamlet 1995" is better is not just nostalgia; it is a critique of modern homogenization. Tim O'Connor represented a time when skateboarding was weird, raw, and distinctly individual. While modern skaters may jump down larger gaps, the 1995 era captured a soul that is difficult to replicate. The grainy footage, the baggy jeans, and the jazz-like improvisation of the lines ensure that for many, the "Classic Hamlet" era will always be the definitive benchmark for style.
The search results indicate that you are likely referring to the 1995 adult film Hamlet: For the Love of Ophelia (also known as "Hamlet, pour l'amour d'Ophélie" ), directed by Luca Damiano Key Content & "Better" Features
Reviews and database entries highlight several reasons why this production is considered "better" or more unique than standard adult fare from that era: Lavish Production Values
: It is described as a "big-budget" and "visually stunning" production for its genre, featuring SPECTACULAR castle locations and elaborate costumes that aim to evoke the Elizabethan era Star-Studded Adult Cast
: The film features several of the biggest names in the 1990s adult industry: Christoph Clark as a melancholy Sarah Young Jacqueline Wild Rocco Siffredi cameo as himself Creative Twist on the Plot
: While it follows the basic framework of Shakespeare's tragedy, Luca Damiano adds significant creative liberties. Most notably, the climax is altered
so that Claudius kills Gertrude and then Ophelia, followed by Hamlet and Ophelia killing each other simultaneously Artistic Composition
: The film is noted for being "well-lit and artfully composed," providing a sense of elegance often missing from similar content
If you were looking for a non-adult version from around that time, you might be thinking of the acclaimed 1996 "Hamlet" directed by Kenneth Branagh
, which is often cited as a definitive version for its full-text adaptation and 70mm cinematography. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more Hamlet: For the Love of Ophelia (Video 1995) - IMDb
While many cinematic purists point to Kenneth Branagh’s 1996 epic as the definitive screen version of the Danish Prince, a cult following maintains that the 1995 release "Hamlet: For the Love of Ophelia" (often referred to as the "Classic Hamlet XXX") offers a unique, albeit explicit, brilliance that conventional adaptations lack. The Context of 1995: A Bold Departure
In 1995, director Luca Damiano took a radical approach to William Shakespeare’s tragedy. While most directors struggle to condense the play's five acts, Damiano chose to "throw out the rule book," focusing on the raw passions and internal turmoil that drive the characters.
Production Value: Unlike many "parody" films, the 1995 production was filmed on 35mm with high-quality sets and costumes that authentically evoke the Elizabethan era.
A "Who’s Who" of the Era: The cast features legendary European performers like Christoph Clark as Hamlet, Sarah Young as Ophelia, and Roberto Malone as Claudius.
The Script: Critics have noted that despite its explicit nature, the film attempts to retain the wit and meter of Shakespeare's original dialogue, leading to surprisingly clever soliloquies. Why 1995 is Considered "Better" by Fans
The argument for the 1995 version often hinges on its irreverence. While Branagh’s 1996 version is famed for being the only unabridged theatrical release—running over four hours—fans of the 1995 version argue it is far more "upbeat" and theatrical.
While there isn't a widely recognized mainstream 1995 film adaptation of , the year is home to a notable parody titled Hamlet: For the Love of Ophelia (1995), directed by Luca Damiano.
If you are looking for a high-quality post covering this specific version or a similar "classic" take, here is a structured breakdown focusing on its unique place in 90s media: Hamlet: For the Love of Ophelia (1995)
This production is a specialized "spoof" or adult-oriented reimagining of the Shakespearean tragedy.
Creative Team: Directed by Luca Damiano, with writing credits attributed to both William Shakespeare and Robert Lyon.
Key Cast: Featured 90s stars like Christoph Clark, Sarah Young, and Maeva.
Tone & Style: Unlike the 1990 Mel Gibson version or the 1996 Kenneth Branagh epic, this 1995 release focuses on the romantic and physical entanglements between Hamlet and Ophelia. Better "Classic" Alternatives from the 90s Title: Why the 1996 (1995) Branagh Hamlet is
If you intended to find a more traditional or critically acclaimed 1990s adaptation, these two are the industry standards: Hamlet (1990)
: Directed by Franco Zeffirelli and starring Mel Gibson. It is praised for its accessible, high-energy take on the character and Gibson's "intense" performance. Hamlet (1996)
: Directed by and starring Kenneth Branagh. This is the definitive "full" version, filming every word of the play across a four-hour runtime with a massive all-star cast including Julie Christie, Derek Jacobi, and Billy Crystal. Core Themes to Include in a Post
To make any post about these versions "better," consider highlighting these recurring Shakespearean elements found in the 90s adaptations:
The Inability to Act: Hamlet’s tragedy stems from his "consciousness itself"—the voice in his head that leads to paralysis through over-analysis.
Grief and Madness: The visual representation of Hamlet’s "distraught" state—pale face, unfastened stockings, and undone jacket.
Betrayal: The shift from a peaceful kingdom to a "corrupted world" where revenge leads to total tragedy.
“Hamlet's father says, end of act one, ‘Avenge me,’ and ... - Facebook
The Timeless Tale of Hamlet: A Cinematic Masterpiece (1995)
In 1995, film enthusiasts were treated to a cinematic adaptation of William Shakespeare's iconic tragedy, Hamlet, directed by the renowned Franco Zeffirelli. This rendition, starring Kenneth Branagh in the titular role, breathed new life into the classic tale, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of human nature, ambition, and mortality.
A Faithful Adaptation
Zeffirelli's Hamlet is notable for its commitment to preserving the original text, with Branagh's Hamlet being the first actor to perform the entire soliloquy sequence. This bold decision resulted in a film that stays true to Shakespeare's vision while still showcasing the director's creative flair. The movie's attention to period detail, coupled with its use of atmospheric lighting and production design, effectively transport viewers to Elsinore Castle, the setting of the tragic events.
Branagh's Tour-de-Force Performance
Kenneth Branagh's portrayal of Hamlet is a highlight of the film. He brings a depth and nuance to the character, conveying the prince's emotional turmoil and intellectual curiosity. Branagh's Hamlet is both vulnerable and strong, making his performance feel authentic and relatable. His chemistry with the supporting cast, including Julie Christie as Gertrude and Derek Jacobi as Claudius, adds to the film's overall emotional impact.
Supporting Cast and Direction
The supporting cast delivers impressive performances, bringing to life the complex web of relationships and motivations that drive the plot. Julie Christie shines as Gertrude, conveying the queen's desperation and tragic flaws. Derek Jacobi, as Claudius, exudes a sense of sly calculation, making him a formidable presence on screen.
Franco Zeffirelli's direction demonstrates a masterful understanding of Shakespeare's work, balancing action, drama, and introspection. His use of long takes, clever camera angles, and composition creates a sense of visual grandeur, underscoring the epic nature of the story.
Themes and Symbolism
The 1995 Hamlet adaptation explores several key themes, including ambition, mortality, and the human condition. The film highlights the destructive nature of unchecked ambition, as embodied by Claudius and his ruthless pursuit of power. Meanwhile, Hamlet's famous soliloquies offer a profound exploration of mortality, identity, and the search for meaning.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, the 1995 Hamlet film received widespread critical acclaim. The movie holds a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics praising Branagh's performance, Zeffirelli's direction, and the film's faithfulness to the original text.
In the years since its release, the 1995 Hamlet adaptation has become a classic in its own right, widely regarded as one of the best Shakespearean film adaptations. The movie's influence can be seen in many subsequent adaptations and interpretations of the play, cementing its place as a landmark production.
Conclusion
The 1995 film adaptation of Hamlet, directed by Franco Zeffirelli and starring Kenneth Branagh, is a cinematic masterpiece that brings new life to Shakespeare's timeless tale. With its commitment to the original text, outstanding performances, and masterful direction, this Hamlet is a must-see for anyone interested in Shakespearean drama, film, or the human experience.
The film's exploration of universal themes, coupled with its attention to period detail and atmospheric production design, makes it a rich and rewarding viewing experience. As a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's work, the 1995 Hamlet remains a classic, continuing to captivate audiences with its insight into the complexities of human nature.
Title:
The Uncut Prince: Branagh’s 1995 Hamlet as a Revisionist Answer to Olivier’s Classic
Introduction
Laurence Olivier’s 1948 Hamlet is the definitive classic Hollywood adaptation: Freudian, shadowy, and heavily cut. Kenneth Branagh’s 1995 Hamlet responds directly to that tradition by presenting the complete text, full-color Victorian grandeur, and a psychoanalytic lens turned outward onto politics. This paper argues that while Olivier’s film remains a masterpiece of mood, Branagh’s version better captures the play’s intellectual and dramatic range by restoring its political dimensions and theatrical self-awareness.
1. Textual Fidelity
Olivier notoriously cut over half the play, removing Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Fortinbras, and key soliloquies (e.g., “How all occasions do inform against me”). His goal was cinematic streamlining. Branagh, conversely, presents every line (over four hours). This restores the play’s epic scale: Fortinbras’s framing narrative, Hamlet’s wry jokes, and the play-within-a-play’s full text. The 1995 version is thus more faithful to Shakespeare’s dramatic architecture.
2. Visual and Thematic Style
Olivier uses deep-focus black-and-white, expressionist sets, and a roving camera to externalize Hamlet’s interiority. The famous “nunnery scene” is shot in a cavernous hall, emphasizing isolation. Branagh opts for wide-screen Technicolor, opulent Blenheim Palace interiors, and flashy tracking shots. His Elsinore is a panopticon of surveillance (CCTV-like mirrors, hidden microphones). Where Olivier reduces Hamlet to an Oedipal drama, Branagh emphasizes corruption, media (the “Mousetrap” as a film-within-a-film), and public performance.
3. Performance and Psychology
Olivier’s Hamlet is neurotic, detached, almost catatonic—delivering “To be or not to be” as a voiceover in front of a raging sea. Branagh’s Hamlet is manic, physically aggressive, and socially engaged. The famous soliloquy is delivered directly to a two-way mirror, breaking the fourth wall only when alone. Branagh also restores humor: his Hamlet jokes with the gravedigger and mocks Polonius mercilessly, making the tragedy more human and therefore more painful.
4. Reception and Legacy
Olivier won the Best Picture Oscar and defined Hamlet for a generation. Critics praise its economy and mood. Branagh’s version, initially seen as indulgent, has gained esteem for its scholarly completeness and star-studded ensemble (Derek Jacobi, Kate Winslet, Julie Christie). It is now the standard teaching version in universities because it shows the whole play without cuts. Verdict: If you want a classic that feels
Conclusion
The 1995 Hamlet is not merely a remake but a deliberate corrective to the 1948 classic. Olivier gave us a dreamlike, psychological Hamlet. Branagh gives us a political, rhetorical, and fully realized one. For readers who want the play as Shakespeare wrote it—with all its contradictions, jokes, and statecraft—the 1995 version is decidedly better.
The phrase " classic hamlet xxx 1995 " refers to a specific adult film adaptation of William Shakespeare's tragedy titled , released in and directed by Andrew Blake
. While unusual for its genre, it is frequently cited by enthusiasts as a superior adaptation due to its high production value, artistic cinematography, and adherence to the source material's somber atmosphere. Why the 1995 Version is Considered "Better"
Critics and fans of the film often highlight several factors that distinguish this adaptation from standard adult fare and even some traditional film versions: Visual Artistry
: Directed by Andrew Blake, known for his "fashion-film" aesthetic, the movie features meticulously framed shots and high-contrast lighting that mimic high-end classical photography. Thematic Fidelity
: Unlike many parodies, this version attempts to capture the melancholic and psychological weight of the original play. It emphasizes the "tragedy of the young lovers" and the isolation of the characters within the castle. Production Quality
: Released during a period of high-budget adult filmmaking, it utilized elaborate sets and period-accurate costuming that rivaled contemporary mainstream independent films of the mid-90s. Comparisons with Traditional Adaptations For context, most "classic" discussions of
in film focus on mainstream versions, which offer different strengths: 1995 Adaptation (Blake) 1990 Adaptation (Zeffirelli) 1996 Adaptation (Branagh) Adult Performers Mel Gibson Kenneth Branagh Stylized, erotic, atmospheric Action-oriented, gritty drama Four-hour epic , word-for-word text Visual aesthetics and "fashion-film" fans General audiences/students Shakespeare purists
While the 1995 version remains a niche cult classic, its reputation for being "better" stems from its rejection of typical genre tropes in favor of a moody, visually-driven interpretation of Shakespeare’s work. Hamlet (1996) - IMDb
Based on the phrasing, this appears to be a search query or a request for a recommendation regarding the most notable film adaptation of Hamlet released around 1995.
The "better" film from this specific year is widely considered to be Kenneth Branagh's Hamlet. However, there is often confusion with Mel Gibson's version (which was 1990) or the BBC version starring Christopher Plummer.
Assuming you are looking for the highlights of the definitive 1995/1996 version, here are the features of Kenneth Branagh's Hamlet:
Look, Olivier’s Hamlet is a classic for a reason—it’s lean, poetic, and iconic. But Branagh’s 1996 Hamlet is the one you want when you actually want to understand the play. It’s overstuffed, loud, unapologetically theatrical, and gloriously extra. Just like Hamlet himself.
So is it better? Yes. It’s the uncut, uncensored, caffeinated version of the greatest story ever told.
Where to watch: It’s on Max, Criterion, and often YouTube in 4K chunks. Clear your Sunday. Get snacks. Thank me later.
Do you disagree? Is Mel Gibson’s 1990 Hamlet your guilty pleasure? Or are you a purist for the David Tennant RSC version? Fight me in the comments.
The 1995 adult adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy, titled "Hamlet: For the Love of Ophelia" (or simply "X Hamlet"), is often cited by fans of the genre as a "better" classic due to its surprisingly high production values and theatrical flair compared to standard fare of the era.
Directed by Luca Damiano (Franco Lo Cascio), this version reimagines the brooding Prince of Denmark's quest for revenge with a lavish, irreverent twist. Production and Artistic Style
Unlike many low-budget adult parodies, Damiano’s Hamlet is noted for its ambitious scale and "big-budget" feel.
Theatrical Flair: The film features creative dialogue, mid-sex soliloquies, and a campy theatricality that leans into its Shakespearean roots while remaining a parody.
Unique Ending: The film takes significant liberties with the original plot, culminating in a chaotic climax where Claudius kills Gertrude and Ophelia before Hamlet and Ophelia kill each other simultaneously.
Self-Awareness: In a notable fourth-wall break, the entire ensemble steps out of character during the finale to salute the audience. Notable Cast and Performances
The film boasts an "all-star" cast of 1990s adult cinema icons: Christoph Clark stars as Prince Hamlet.
Sarah Young portrays Ophelia, delivering what reviewers call a "memorable" and "sultry" performance.
Maéva appears as Gertrude, and Roberto Malone plays the usurping uncle, Claudius.
Cameos: Legendary performers like Rocco Siffredi and Rosa Caracciolo make anachronistic appearances, and fellow director Joe D'Amato plays the role of Polonius. Why Fans Consider it "Better"
Irreverent Humor: The film includes a catchy, albeit crude, theme song titled "To f**k or not to f**k," setting an upbeat and humorous tone.
Cinematography: Reviewers often praise the cinematography, credited to Renato Doria, for capturing the "drama" and "period piece" aesthetic more effectively than its peers.
Memorability: For those seeking a "raunchy twist" on classic literature, this version is frequently highlighted on IMDb and Letterboxd as a landmark of 90s vintage media.
Hamlet: For the Love of Ophelia (Video 1995) - Full cast & crew
In the skateboarding community, the mid-90s are often cited as the "golden era," and the footage involving Tim O'Connor (often nicknamed "Hamlet" due to his philosophical demeanor or specific tricks) from this era is frequently championed as "better" than modern, highly produced content.
Here is a text exploring why that specific 1995/1996 era and the "Hamlet" style is considered by many to be superior: