Riz Ahmed has completed his modern adaptation of Shakespeare's Hamlet, aiming to present a visceral, contemporary version that resonates with today's audiences. The film, filmed as an action thriller set in modern London, portrays Hamlet as a stark, haunted figure reflecting current societal feelings of powerlessness, gaslighting, and unfairness. Ahmed, who has been obsessed with Hamlet since childhood, hopes this version will replace traditional, old-fashioned plays in schools, making Shakespeare's work more accessible and relevant to students. The project faced a 13-year development delay due to studio changes, but Ahmed believes now is the perfect time for this story, as many people feel similarly powerless and gaslit today. The film's style is edgy and original, featuring techniques like shaky first-person camera work and rapid delivery of the famous 'To be or not to be' speech, aiming to create a raw, impactful experience. Ahmed, who collaborated with director Aneil Karia—whom he previously worked with on an Oscar-winning short—describes the process as intense and raw, partly influenced by his recent experiences as a new father, which added emotional depth and authenticity. Despite exhaustion and sleep deprivation during filming, Ahmed embraced the chaos, viewing it as integral to the story about fatherhood and human vulnerability. The actor expressed hope that this modern Hamlet will become a standard in educational settings, offering a fresh perspective that aligns with the feelings of many today. The film is scheduled to open in UK cinemas on February 6, 2026.