(spoiler free)
Agatha Christie’s much loved novel ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ has been no stranger to the small and big screen over the years. Kenneth Branagh’s directorial effort will be it’s fourth adaptation and second feature length cinematic release. With a cast list even longer and more impressive than Poirot’s perfectly groomed mustache would this star power make this remake a success or be a classic case of an A-list cast but an under-par film?
As you will have seen from the trailers and posters the array of characters that reside on the titular Orient Express are portrayed by a fine collection of actors and actresses. The large cast includes the likes of Michelle Pfeiffer, Judi Dench & Willem Dafoe to name but a few. Overall this cast works well, each offering a unique performance thanks to the wide variety of characters within this story. It’s no doubt that juggling this amount of characters would be a challenge, however Branagh and screenwriter Michael Green have managed this well allotting screen time as evenly as possible. Branagh also stars in the leading role as Detective Hercule Poirot, as a result he is the character that the audience spend the most time with and get to know the best. His portrayal of the character is rather cartoonish ending up somewhere in between Inspector Jacques Clouseau and Sherlock Holmes. I don’t really know enough about Poirot as a character to assess whether or not this is an accurate representation of the detective but at first I have to admit that it was a little jarring. However, as the film progresses so does Branagh’s portrayal and the fact that he carries this straight through the film makes it more acceptable and audiences should become accustomed to it. Often it is Branagh’s performance that adds a little humour to the proceedings which is appreciated.
So whilst his performance may initially come under questioning I thought that his direction was confident from departure. Branagh uses intelligent techniques to maximize the audience’s field of vision in the often cramped settings the story finds itself in. Overhead shots really open up the more claustrophobic moments in the train cabins and allow viewers a more immersive experience. It was touches like these that showcased Branagh’s directorial talents and made for a more involved watch.
The narrative itself is good too, the mystery works well with plenty of suspects and evidence to allow the audience the tools to begin building their own case against whoever they suspect. However as this film is a remake, for those who have seen any of the previous adaptations or have read the book it will be robbed of some of that vital intrigue. It maybe seems somewhat odd to remake a film when it’s success depends so essentially on the central mystery, alas for those who know the outcome only so much engagement can be achieved. The pacing does just enough to keep your attention, as the film is basically made up of a series of interrogation scenes with some sporadic flutters of action throughout this was always going to be challenge. However, despite knowing the identity of the killer I was never bored and I was captivated for the entirety of the running time. I imagine those approaching this remake with fresh eyes to the narrative will be even further engaged.
Therefore, I think it’s fair to say that this has been a successful remake. It should serve as a fine introduction to one of the most famous detective stories in literature and cinema. The talented cast go a long way in making the film an entertaining watch. However in saying that Branagh’s portrayal of Poirot may be the deciding factor for some viewers, stick with him though and you should surely enjoy it! It’s a well worked murder mystery presented in stylish fashion with some clever directorial decisions that all contribute to a polished finished product, case closed.
Written by Hamish Calvert
Rating – 7/10
Question: Who is your favourite detective from cinema, TV or literature?
(Leave your answers in the comments section below!)
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