Hamlet Lives in Hollywood

Analyses the complexity of John Barrymore's performances and career trajectory John Barrymore's influence on screen and stage in the early twentieth century is incalculable. His performances in the theatre defined Shakespeare for a generation, and his transition to cinema brought his theatrical performativity to both silent and sound screens. This book, a collection of fifteen original essays on the film performances and stardom of John Barrymore, redresses this lack of scholarship on Barrymore by offering a range of varied perspectives on the actor's work. Looking at his performances and influence from the perspectives of gender studies, psychoanalysis, queer studies and performance analysis, Hamlet Lives in Hollywood represents a major attempt by contemporary scholars to come to terms with the ongoing vitality of John Barrymore's work in our present day. Key Features Explores Barrymore's work from a number of angles including: performance, theatricality, stardom, gender, masculinity, sexuality, psychoanalysis, voice, and queer studies Focuses on the actor's film work as well as his roles in theatre Situates the actor's roles and career within the context of early American film history