A Haunting in Venice is a mystery movie directed by Kenneth Branagh, based on the novel by Agatha Christie.
As you may know, Kenneth Branagh, an excellent actor and film and theater director, has taken it upon himself to revive Agatha Christie and portray her iconic detective, Hercule Poirot. He skillfully blends classic novel elements with a distinct, visually striking cinematic style.
In our opinion, this is the most accomplished adaptation on a cinematographic level. The atmosphere and story lend themselves to elaborate compositions and chiaroscuro effects.
Branagh’s adaptations of Agatha Christie’s works are, without a doubt, the finest ones to date. Whether you enjoy this kind of mystery and intrigue or not is a different matter.
Plot
A writer seeks Poirot’s help, even though he has retired from investigative work, to expose a psychic who meets a tragic end. The investigation leads the detective into mysterious visions that blur the lines between reality and the supernatural.
Review of “A Haunting in Venice”
Superbly crafted: Twisted compositions in a dilapidated Venetian palazzo make for a visually magnificent film, with outstanding performances, exquisite production design, and attention to detail.
The problem lies in our familiarity with Agatha Christie’s works, leaving little room for surprises. We have the relentless pursuit of the culprit by an all-knowing detective, sprinkled with dry British humor, and in the end, “more of the same.”
Yes, “A Haunting in Venice” cannot and should not escape the tropes of being a literary adaptation of a format that undeniably defined an era. Its formal perfection allows for little deviation or variety. But Branagh is aware of this and, instead of settling for a generic adaptation, he aspires to create the best possible rendition of the novelist’s work, both aesthetically and thematically.
“A Haunting in Venice” provides Agatha Christie’s work with the aesthetic luxury it deserves: it is classical and respectful of the original while also bringing innovation to the visual aspect. It incorporates a thrilling rhythm and impactful editing, transforming a dialogue-heavy novel into a standalone film with its own artistic and formal value.
Our opinion
Branagh’s finest adaptation of Agatha Christie, and that is saying a lot.
While it may not be the film of the year due to the familiar plot, this gentleman deserves our utmost respect and admiration for his renewal of literary classicism, which he has been doing since Henry V.
If by any chance he reads this: congratulations.
The Cast
Kenneth Branagh is a critically acclaimed English actor, director and producer who has been in the industry for more than four decades. His career started with starring roles in films like 1984’s Henry V and 1989’s Dead Again before going on to direct celebrated classics such as 1996’s Hamlet, 1998’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and 2011’s Thor. He has also appeared in a wide range of television projects; most recently, he starred as Detective Hercule Poirot in the 2017 adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel Murder on the Orient Express. Branagh is widely revered for his extensive body of work that includes both blockbuster hits and lesser-known art house productions. Read more
