After watching Knives Out, I had an urge to watch the 2017 version of Murder on the Orient Express (MOTOE.) I had seen this movie once and vaguely remembered liking it. Knives Out has a similar feel, although more tongue-in-cheek, so I thought I might like MOTOE even more the second time.
I was right.
There are older remakes of MOTOE, and I didn’t like any of them. However, the 2017 version is amazing. The acting is superb, and the cast is first-rate. The scenery is grand, and I would love to travel on the Orient Express after watching this movie.
I won’t spoil the plot, but you probably know what happens unless you have never heard of this Agatha Christie novel. The solving of the mystery and it’s aftermath is handled in just the right way. I love the reveal at the end.
Hercule Poirot is not my favorite literary sleuth. When I was a kid, I detested both him and Miss Marple. I preferred a good Sherlock Holmes or Nero Wolfe story.
I’m still not a fan of Miss Marple, but I have grown to like Mr. Poirot. Kenneth Branagh did a wonderful job playing the Belgium detective, although I thought his mustache, while literarily accurate, was distracting.
My favorite Poirot story is Murder on the Nile. MOTOE ends with him heading off to solve that crime. Depending on the COVID world, Murder on the Nile is coming to theaters this December. I’m not holding my breath, but I would gladly see it whenever it comes out.
I have one request. If you decide to watch Murder on the Orient Express, give it your complete attention. I like to work on my laptop during movies, but I did nothing but focus on this one. The movie is twisty and is more enjoyable if you watch every moment. Plus, it is a visual pleasure.