The life of Prince Hamlet of Denmark (Nicol Williamson) is thrown into disarray when he learns that his father was murdered by his uncle Claudius (Anthony Hopkins), the current king, who is now married to Hamlet's mother, Gertrude (Judy Parfitt). Hamlet's unstable behavior troubles his love, Ophelia (Marianne Faithfull), who is further shaken by the death of her father, Polonius (Mark Dignam). Hamlet methodically plots vengeance while other forces conspire to attack him.