Without the politicking it came across as Laertes showing concern for his sister because he wasn't convinced she could be happy with Hamlet, who wouldn't treat her well. She was played as a fresh young thing, trusting and pushed and pulled by the political whims of her mother Polonia (gender swapping creates confusion in post-play discussion). The scene when Hamlet taunts her was increasingly distressing as she is first confused and then horrified by what he is saying. I understand that the order was played with slightly, which may be promoting this particular view...

Polonia was very well played - a practical woman who tries to move things along and control the future (failing fairly completely none the less). I was quite disappointed when she was killed. I have just downloaded the full play onto my ereader and I look forward to finding out what I missed.