'Murder on the Orient Express' is the second theatrical adaptation of the classic novel by Agatha Christie and is directed by and stars Kenneth Branagh (Thor) as world famous detective Hercule Poirot as he attempts to take a relaxing train ride on the titular express only for his holiday to come to a screeching halt when one rider is found brutally murdered in their cabin. It's up to Poirot to figure out which of the 13 remaining are the guilty party. For those who have yet to read the classic novel, we will of course not reveal any details that might reveal whodunit but even when walking out of your local cinema, you may find yourself a little disappointed at the outcome. Now to be fair, this is more of Christie's novel having some confusing connect the dot moments and not so much the fault of Branagh, but to some it will not be as satisfying a reveal as many might think. That being said, it is still an intriguing journey from point A to B and I myself am always instantly pulled into a great mystery and this newest edition of 'Orient Express' is a well done one.
Well done but still far from perfect however as it does struggle at times to juggle the many great cast members on hand and a lot of the film seems more dedicated to being a visual stunner rather than focusing on the task at hand. This is indeed one of the most beautiful films of the year and will likely see some award nods, but pretty scenery does get in the way a lot more than I'm comfortable with. However, when the story does throw the spotlight on each individual the film does give us some great performances by a really talented cast. Yes some are better than others and there are a few too many that I didn't really get to know as well as in the original source material but it helps keep the film at a brisker pace for modern audiences which is both good and bad in my book. I think if the film had a grander scale to it all, including a two hour plus running time these mistakes could have been ironed out better and made for a more perfected adaptation.
The film does make changes now and then to the book but most of these come off as pointless such as a really weak attempt at diversity or changing a character's background. These feel forced as if the studio felt that a straightforward adaption of the novel wasn't enough to draw an audience. I have been asked before seeing the film if it can still be enjoyed despite my knowing of the ending etc. to which I respond "Of course". This question is given to me specifically with horror or mystery films but the answer I give is across the board: Does one still enjoy 'The Godfather' despite knowing every detail? Yes, I know that with a story such as this it does take some aspects away and isn't easy to compare it but what keeps 'Orient Express' from putting me to sleep despite my knowing of all the ins and outs is in the very basics of film itself: A visually appealing classic style film performed by a very talented cast of actors.
'Murder on the Orient Express' isn't going to change anybody's life in any way, it's nothing truly special or a film that will stay in the annals of movie history or anything. What it is though is an enjoyable and relaxing time at the movies, where you can just go and have fun before leaving and going on with your day. It's a film from a different time at the movies and one where I laughed, I cried, and I enjoyed every minute I watched despite its shortcomings. It's a film worth watching even if it doesn't strive for much thanks to its cast, visual prowess, and slick direction.
8/10
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