A Haunting In Venice Review: Kenneth Branagh Finally Gets Poirot Right

In the dimly lit, eerie canals of Venice, Hercule Poirot, the renowned detective created by Agatha Christie, finds himself entwined in a mystery that is as perplexing as the city’s labyrinthine alleys. A Haunting In Venice not only brings to the screen a fresh, original story from the Christie archive but also presents Kenneth Branagh in a rendition of Poirot that is arguably his finest. The film, while maintaining the quintessential elements of a classic Poirot mystery, ventures into territories that are darker and more supernatural than fans of the Belgian detective are accustomed to.

Kenneth Branagh, who not only breathes life into Poirot but also sits in the director’s chair, has managed to weave a tale that is both hauntingly beautiful and cerebrally engaging. The film, while not without its flaws, stands out in the sea of Hercule Poirot adaptations, offering audiences a version of the detective that is both familiar and refreshingly new.

A Masterful Performance by Kenneth Branagh

Credit: 20th Century Studios

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Branagh as Poirot

Kenneth Branagh’s portrayal of Hercule Poirot has always been met with a mix of admiration and critique in his previous films. However, in A Haunting In Venice, Branagh seems to have fully embraced the eccentricities, nuances, and depth of the character, delivering a performance that is both authentic and compelling. His Poirot is meticulous yet vulnerable, brilliant yet haunted by his own demons, providing a fresh take on the beloved detective.

Directing with a Keen Eye

Branagh’s direction is also notably superior in this film compared to his previous Poirot outings. The use of Dutch angles, shadow play, and a meticulously crafted sound design elevates the film’s eerie atmosphere, making it not just a mystery but a genuinely unsettling experience. The hauntingly beautiful city of Venice is utilised to its full potential, becoming a character in its own right, its winding canals and gothic architecture providing a perfect backdrop for the supernatural mystery.

An Exemplary Cast and Setting

Credit: 20th Century Studios

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Stellar Performances All Around

The film boasts an ensemble cast that delivers performances which complement Branagh’s Poirot perfectly. The ensemble cast includes Kyle Allen, Camille Cottin, Jamie Dornan, Tina Fey, Jude Hill, Ali Khan, Emma Laird, Kelly Reilly, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Michelle Yeoh. Each character is shrouded in mystery, providing the perfect suspects for the detective’s latest case. The interactions, dialogues, and emotional depth provided by the cast keep the audience engaged and invested in the unfolding mystery.

Venice – A Character in Its Own Right

Setting the movie in Venice was a stroke of genius. The city, with its haunting beauty, mysterious alleyways, and dark, silent canals, becomes a pivotal element in the storytelling. The location not only enhances the mystery but also becomes intertwined with the plot, its enigmatic aura seeping through every frame, making the story all the more chilling and captivating.

A Faithful Yet Fresh Adaptation

Credit: 20th Century Studios

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Adapting Christie for the Modern Audience

A Haunting In Venice manages to stay true to the spirit of Agatha Christie while also bringing something new to the table. The adaptation, while based on an original story by Christie (Hallowe’en Party), is not afraid to tread new paths, exploring themes and narratives that are both engaging and fresh. The balance between maintaining the classic Christie mystery while also exploring new territories is skillfully maintained throughout the film.

A Formulaic Plot – A Minor Stumbling Block

Despite its many strengths, the film is not without its weaknesses. The plot, while engaging, does fall into a somewhat formulaic pattern, especially for those familiar with Christie’s work. Some twists and turns may feel familiar, and the resolution, while satisfying, may not surprise seasoned mystery enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts on Kenneth Branagh’s A Haunting In Venice

Credit: 20th Century Studios

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A Haunting In Venice stands out not only as a Hercule Poirot film but as a piece of cinema that beautifully blends mystery and supernatural horror. Kenneth Branagh, both in front of and behind the camera, has crafted a film that is likely to linger in the minds of the audience long after they leave the theatre. The film, while paying homage to Agatha Christie, also dares to explore new territories, providing a fresh and engaging experience to both fans of the detective and newcomers to the genre.

In the vast library of Hercule Poirot adaptations, A Haunting In Venice will undoubtedly hold a special place, not just for its masterful storytelling and performances but for its ability to transcend the traditional boundaries of its genre. Branagh’s Poirot, amidst the hauntingly beautiful and eerie canals of Venice, takes the audience on a journey that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, ensuring that this film will be remembered as one of the standout entries in the detective’s cinematic history.

What do you make of this review of A Haunting In Venice? Have you watched the movie? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

You can watch A Haunting In Venice in cinemas worldwide.