Murder on the Orient Express

Having been fan of Sidney Lumet’s 1974 version of Murder on the Orient Express, I was a bit leery of seeing Producer/Director/Actor Kenneth Branagh’s remake.  But finding that Writer Michael Green (Blade Runner 2049) was involved, I decided to take a chance.

That turned out to be a good decision as I was happily rewarded with the innovations and humor Branagh has brought to this Agatha Christie tale, especially his opening and closing scenes, plus the fact Michelle Pfeiffer sings over the end credits.

Pfieffer also brings spirit to the amazing cast that includes Johnny Depp, Daisy Ridley, Penélope Cruz, Derek Jacobi, Judi Dench, Willem Dafoe and Miranda Raison.

This is a film that needs to be seen on a big screen, which is interesting given the fact most of the action takes place in the narrow confines of a train.   

But that is the magic of Cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos, who uses the space that Production Designer Jim Clay has richly appointed. It also helps that the train is stalled by an avalanche on an enormously high trestle bridge. 

If you’re tired of or just need a break from all the modern day or future super heroes, Murder on the Orient Express is a good bet.  I give it a 4.2 out of 5.