Here is a non-Shakespearian version of Hamlet, drawn from a Danish history recorded by Saxo Grammaticus in the 12th century, and containing characterization and incident not found in any other source.

The film exemplifies the economy of action which characterized the Golden Era of Danish film production between 1912 and 1920.

The direction is curiously mixed in style; sombre atmosphere, stuffy architecture and static photography are coupled with romanticism, a free treatment and love of emotion, and a true feeling for landscape and history. Asta Nielsen, in a remarkable performance, brings pathos to the role of Hamlet.