Riz Ahmed Says He Felt Like an ‘Outsider’ Growing Up, Just Like His Modern New “Hamlet” (Exclusive)

Riz Ahmed Set to Star in Modern Adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet

British actor Riz Ahmed is set to take on one of Shakespeare’s most iconic roles in a fresh adaptation of “Hamlet,” directed by Aneil Karia. The film is scheduled to hit cinemas on April 10, following its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2025. Ahmed, known for his impactful performances and dynamic storytelling, approaches the character of Hamlet with both respect for the original work and a keen desire to make it resonate with contemporary audiences.

Reflecting on his personal journey with the text, Ahmed revealed that his first encounter with “Hamlet” occurred during his high school years, thanks to an inspirational English teacher. He explained to PEOPLE magazine, “I found a character, the heart of this play, that just feels as much of an outsider as I did at that time.” This sense of connection is particularly relevant today, as Ahmed noted. “I think the central question of the play is, ‘Am I losing my mind or has the world gone crazy?’ And I think we are feeling that way,” he commented, hinting at the current societal anxieties that mirror the play’s themes.

In this new adaptation, the setting is shifted from the traditional Danish backdrop to modern-day London, a move that adds layers of relevance to the narrative. In a bold departure from classical interpretations, the film presents Ahmed’s Hamlet delivering the renowned “To be or not to be” soliloquy during a high-speed drive along a busy highway. This unique choice exemplifies the aspiration to make Shakespeare’s works accessible and relatable to a contemporary audience.

Ahmed acknowledges that many people perceive Shakespeare’s plays as elitist or archaic. He remarked, “A lot of people think that it doesn’t belong to me and I don’t belong in it, and it’s just a bit stuffy and alien. I’m on the outside of it.” His project aims to dismantle these barriers. “As [film critic] Roger Ebert would put it, movies and storytelling are an empathy engine,” he stated. Through this adaptation, Ahmed hopes viewers will find reflections of themselves within the text, promoting connection and understanding across cultural divides.

Central to Ahmed’s vision is the idea that the timeless themes within Shakespeare’s work can still evoke empathy and recognition today. He shared, “We just wanted to make something that didn’t feel like a museum piece.” By incorporating a modern setting and exploring the emotional heart of the character, the filmmakers aim to breathe new life into the classic text. Ahmed has taken a hands-on approach in his dual role as lead actor and producer, striving to ensure that “Hamlet” remains relevant and alive for new generations.

The film boasts a stellar supporting cast, including Morfydd Clark, Joe Alwyn, Sheeba Chaddha, Avijit Dutt, Art Malik, and Timothy Spall. Each actor brings their unique talents to the project, enhancing the richness of the narrative and contributing to Ahmed’s vision of a diverse and multicultural interpretation of the Shakespearean tragedy.

Beyond “Hamlet,” Ahmed has several projects on his plate, including the British limited series “Bait,” which is now available for streaming on Prime Video. He is also set to feature in Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s upcoming film “Digger,” alongside Tom Cruise, which will be released in cinemas on October 2.

As audiences prepare for the April 10 release of this modern retelling of Hamlet, Riz Ahmed’s commitment to making Shakespeare’s work accessible in today’s context is not only commendable but also essential. By bridging the gap between the classics and contemporary society, Ahmed and Karia’s adaptation holds the promise of being both a gripping narrative and a powerful commentary on the human experience.