Culture Movies Review: Kenneth Branagh and his Poirot Moustache Deliver Frightfully Good Fun
By Sandra Hall | September 14, 2023 — 5.30am
A Haunting in Venice, a film loosely based on Agatha Christie’s Hallowe’en Party, takes a more serious approach to Hercule Poirot than Christie ever did. Kenneth Branagh reprises his role as the famous detective and brings a reclusive and melancholic mood to the character. Set in post-World War II Venice, Poirot has retreated from his sleuthing days, finding solace in his garden and Italian pastries, while dismissing the clamor of those who still seek his services.
It is his old friend and occasional adversary, Ariadne Oliver, played by Tina Fey, who persuades Poirot to engage in a new mystery. Ariadne invites him to attend a seance conducted by Michelle Yeoh’s character, Joyce Reynolds, a renowned spiritualist. While Ariadne is skeptical about Joyce’s abilities, she needs Poirot‘s opinion to confirm her suspicions.
A Gothic Twist
Directed by Kenneth Branagh and written by Michael Green, A Haunting in Venice is the third Christie adaptation from this duo. The film is set inside a derelict Renaissance palazzo in Venice, providing a suitably atmospheric and haunted backdrop. The night is filled with strange noises, dark murders, and a terrifying storm that adds to the suspense. The cast of characters is as intriguing as ever, with Kelly Reilly as Rowena Drake, a retired opera singer seeking closure for her daughter’s mysterious death. Kyle Allen plays Maxime Gerard, the former fiance of Rowena’s daughter Alicia, who carries resentment towards Rowena. Jamie Dornan portrays a shell-shocked doctor hopelessly in love with Rowena, and his young son, played by Jude Hill, adds an element of wisdom beyond his years.
Branagh’s direction leans heavily into the gothic elements of the story. The majority of the action unfolds during one fateful night inside the palazzo, illuminated by strategically placed candles. The soundtrack, composed by Hildur Gudnadottir, enhances the suspense with its staccato rhythm. Michael Green’s script injects welcome touches of humor into the banter between Poirot and Ariadne, providing moments of levity amidst the darkness.
Witty Banter and Distractions
The dynamic between Branagh and Fey is delightful, with both actors in their element and displaying great chemistry. However, the most iconic aspect of Kenneth Branagh’s portrayal of Poirot, his moustache, can be a bit distracting. The moustache, resembling the tail of a small grey kitten, might be intended to add a touch of whimsy to the character, but it ultimately feels out of place in the film’s serious tone.
While the film aims to be a spoof, it falls short of delivering the wit and cleverness necessary for a successful parody. The concluding explanation of the mystery by Poirot is convoluted, making it difficult for the audience to fully embrace the resolution.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
A Haunting in Venice succeeds in offering an entertaining and atmospheric experience, with Branagh and Fey’s performances being the film’s highlights. It is an engaging and visually stunning adaptation of a Christie novel, albeit one that could have delved deeper into the comedic elements. Fans of Agatha Christie and Branagh’s previous Poirot films will likely enjoy this latest installment. However, those seeking a more nuanced and intellectually engaging mystery might find it lacking. Overall, A Haunting in Venice is a decent addition to the Christie adaptation canon, delivering enough frightful fun to entertain audiences.
A Haunting in Venice is set to be released in cinemas on September 14.
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The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
