Murder on the Orient Express (2017) Movie Review

Official Poster

In today’s world, where major studios are always pushing for an action-packed franchise or working on a new super-hero sequel, Murder on the Orient Express emerges as a solid, well thought out film, adapted from the book series written by crime-mystery adept Agatha Christie. The story follows French detective Hercule Poirot, played by Kenneth Branagh (who also takes up the directorial mantle), as he unravels what seems to be impossible lawless conundrums.

Poirot's inner cogs are rotating, which means a mystery is upon us!

Poirot had just solved a case concerning the Western Wall in plain Israel and is immediately called in to figure out yet another one. In order to do so, he must jump on board the Orient Express and travel to his desired destination. Everything is going as expected and even the eggs were perfect (trust me, you’ll know it when you see it) until a passenger is killed. Everyone is a suspect and Poirot, who needed some much deserved rest, is forced to identify the murderer. The film is incredibly well shot with outstanding cinematography and inventive use of camerawork. 

One of the many gorgeous shots in the film

There is a plethora of wide-shots, capturing the landscape and providing the audience with a sense of freedom, because once the train starts moving, the scenery is bound to maintain a certain consistency and restriction in terms of tight spaces. Speaking of which, Branagh proves he is a master when it comes to directing such a massive cast in such a small niche-type set. He manages to infuse the necessary vibrant energy into the moving pictures, making a relentless effort in the pursuit for the perfect frame. The editing is extremely well executed and is deployed smoothly, which goes along with the superb and authentic soundtrack.

Still of Josh Gad and Johnny Depp, designing a careful plan

Also worthy of mention is the undeniable work that went into the costume design; it was incredible, very refined, detailed and it captured the ambiance of that atmosphere, helping and succeeding in setting up the time the film took place in. All actors did a great job, with Branagh as Poirot being the one that naturally popped out of the screen (his outrageous moustache also popped out, though). Personally, Josh Gad, Daisy Ridley, Leslie Odom Jr., Johnny Depp and Michelle Pfeiffer were the best, among the star-filled cast (it’s humongous).

Official Promotional Banner with the full cast

However, I do have some negatives to point out, regarding Murder on the Orient Express. The film has a bulk load of characters that need to feel integral to the plot and thus, by definition, they need to be fleshed out and never once come by as secondary players, standing in the background. Some of them end up being just another person played by a well-known actor, which is a shame. Given the nature of the movie being an ensemble cast, the film feels a bit crammed in certain sections with some characters not fully explored and under-developed, unfortunately.

Still of Olivia Colman and Judi Dench while on board the Orient Express

Furthermore, the film could have also invited its audience to play the classic guessing game, “Who did it?”, but it instead opts to turn our humble detective into an exposition machine, with Poirot launching his signature rapid-fire dialogue. It is a film designed to behold, and not necessarily to make your inner gray cells tick. Put that aside, and I firmly believe Murder on The Orient Express is a must see, especially because of its irreverence, freshness and inventiveness.

At last, the famous eggs!

After all the smoke cleared and the twists came to a halt, the movie even tossed around the idea for a potential sequel (which it deserves, quite honestly). With that being said, I rate Hercule Poirot’s latest remake with a B+. What about you, kind reader of Flick Screen Reviews? Have you seen Murder on the Orient Express? What is your opinion? Make sure you jump into the comments’ section down below and share your thoughts.