"I Hate Hamlet" is a comedic play written by Paul Rudnick that takes a lighthearted and playful approach to the world of theater. It tells the story of Andrew Rally, a young and successful TV actor, who reluctantly agrees to take on the role of Hamlet in a Shakespearean production. However, it quickly becomes apparent that Andrew despises the iconic character and everything it represents.
Set in New York City's West Village, the play unfolds in the former apartment of the legendary actor, John Barrymore, which Andrew has just moved into. In an unexpected twist, Andrew finds himself being haunted by Barrymore's ghost, who appears in full Hamlet costume. Barrymore, brimming with enthusiasm and passion, urges Andrew to embrace the part, leading to a clash between the two contrasting personalities.
As Andrew grapples with his distaste for Hamlet, he finds himself torn between his girlfriend, Deirdre, an aspiring actress dreaming of playing Ophelia, and his Hollywood agent, Lillian, who wants Andrew to focus solely on his TV career and leave the stage behind. Things become even more complicated when an eccentric and flirtatious director named Gary Peter Lefkowitz enters the scene, attempting to persuade Andrew to take on a role completely different from Hamlet.
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Rudnick skillfully explores themes of fame, ambition, and the eternal struggle to balance one's artistic desires with the expectations of others. The witty and clever dialogue, combined with the lively interactions between the characters, keeps readers entertained and engaged throughout. With its blend of humor, drama, and a touch of the supernatural, "I Hate Hamlet" provides a delightful and enjoyable reading experience for both theater enthusiasts and comedy lovers.
Overall, "I Hate Hamlet" offers a fresh and entertaining take on the world of theater, offering a humorous and tongue-in-cheek exploration of the complexities and contradictions that come with pursuing a career in acting. Rudnick's play serves as a reminder to embrace one's own artistic authenticity while navigating the expectations and demands of others.
What are readers saying?
The book "I Hate Hamlet" by Paul Rudnick has garnered a range of reactions from readers. While some have found the book to be humorous and entertaining, others have expressed disappointment, feeling that it didn't meet their expectations.
One reviewer commended Rudnick's witty and humorous writing style, describing it as enjoyable and quick-paced. They particularly appreciated the author's talent for creating vivid and hilarious characters, which made for an entertaining and lighthearted reading experience.
However, some readers felt let down by the book's lack of depth and character development. They found the plot predictable and lacking substance, making it challenging to become fully engaged with the story. Furthermore, some readers felt that the humor in the book was forced and repetitive, diminishing their overall enjoyment.
Another critique raised by several reviewers was the excessive focus on theater and acting. They believed that this narrow focus might limit the book's appeal, especially for readers who are not familiar with or interested in the world of theater. According to them, the story lacked broader appeal due to its excessive emphasis on this specific topic.
Despite these critiques, many readers appreciated the book's exploration of the protagonist's internal struggles and conflicts. They found these elements relatable and enjoyed the examination of themes such as ambition, self-doubt, and the pursuit of one's passions.
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