Murder on the Orient Express
Casting: Kenneth Branagh, Penélope Cruz, Willem Dafoe, Dame Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Derek Jacobi, Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley
Rated: 5/10
This one comes 43 years after the first film released that was directed by Sidney lumet, produced by John Brabourne and Richard B Goodwin based on the 1934 novel of the same name by Agatha Christie.
Back then, Hercule Poirot was played by Albert Finney and Richard Widmark played Ratchett/Casetti. Back then, the movie had plenty to offer. It was crisp, entertaining and beautifully mounted with plenty of wit.
The problem with this film by director Kenneth Branagh, who incidentally also plays Poirot, is that the viewers have too many points where they can compare it to not just the movie but also the TV series with David Suchet as Poirot. Also, there is no denying that movies based on books seldom will up to people’s expectations. Moreso, when the film is based on a murder-mystery. Those who have read the book, there are no surprises for them. In fact, the dialogues, the whole build-up to the climax proves to be a dud since we know whodunnit.
Then there is the casting itself. Branagh has himself taken the task of playing Poirot when he had Johnny Depp. Many would agree that Depp would have been a better donned the detective’s cap. After all he saw his madness and quirkiness in films like Pirates of the Caribbean and Alice in Wonder land. To not have an actor like Depp occupy major screen presence is a waste of his talent and a disappointment for his fans.
But the film does remind you of the romanticism that one associates with Agatha Christie’s most loved character. He brings a smile to your face when Branagh introduces the character trying to unlock a mystery in Jerusalem. His eagerness for a little rest and relaxation and being denied one is amusing.
Go see this one for Christie, the best-selling novelist of all time.
— Shalini Saksena