In 1978, the BBC set itself the task of filming all of William Shakespeare's plays for television. The resulting productions, renowned for their loyalty to the text, utilised the best theatrical and television directors and brought acclaimed performances from leading contemporary actors."Though this be madness, yet there is method in 't." Returning to Denmark, Prince Hamlet finds his father killed and the throne usurped by his Uncle. Inspired by his father's ghost to seek vengeance, he is forced to consider the nature of murder and violence, revenge and intrigue, sex and desire, paranoia and madness and the very essence of humanity itself.Derek Jacobi's portrayal of the Prince of Denmark is often seen as the benchmark for performances of the most complex of all Shakespearian characters. The Los Angeles Times reported: "The stage belongs to Jacobi and, in a performance that grows as he plays, he's a Hamlet you will not soon forget."