Ophelia

Ben Barnes (best known for his role in Prince Caspian) has recently been cast as Hamlet in the latest remake titled Ophelia. While Hamlet is the titular character in the original play, Barnes actually doesn't have the biggest role in the film as the movie will be told from the perspective of Ophelia. If you need a refresher on your British Literature, Ophelia was Hamlet's "girlfriend" who spirals into madness and eventually (SPOILER ALERT) drowns in a river.

Hamlet is my favorite Shakespeare play, and I believe this is the first time I've heard of a movie remake being centered on a character other than Hamlet himself. It's a fresh take on something that has been retold many times over which deserves a pat on the back in itself.

If you're hesitant about the movie because the thought of Shakespeare invokes horrible memories of high school English and pouring over Cliff Notes the night before your 5 page paper was due, rest easy, the dialogue isn't in iambic pentameter.

Jog your memory by watching the Simpsons' version of Hamlet here or clicking below:

Ralph Wiggum as Laertes and Chief Wiggum as Polonius