Murder on the Orient Express (Film - 2017)

(No/Minimal Spoiler alert) 

Agatha Christie's greatest creation, the Belgian detective 'Hercule Poirot' continues to enthrall readers in an addictive grip. Over a period of time, many film adaptions were made. The latest to join the  bandwagon is 'Murder on the Orient Express', basing on the crime novel of the same title, that pits Poirot's famous stubborn insistence on balance and truth against the grotesque reality of perceived revenge-justice. For the simple reason that I'm too much of a loyal fan, biased towards the book, I cannot even attempt to write about such a masterful book. So, strictly it's all about the film.

Kenneth Branagh as Hercule Poirot is nothing like the Hercule Poirot which Agatha Christie described, at least physically (egg shaped brain, tilted sideways). Yet he is suave, different and aesthetically pleasing to watch (what with the accurate description of the legendary eccentricity i.e, 'two oeufs', straightening the tie etc). Staying true to the original book-plot,  an ensemble cast of who's who spread judiciously over the film ensures it's a treat to watch.

Unfortunate & unnecessary comparisons with book may belittle such a wonderful film, yet it deserves a respect for aesthetic authenticity.  On the whole, a well done project and watch out for the witty intelligence of Branagh (Poirot), when he says "I'm at my happiest alone."

As a fan, I've left the theatre saying to myself in Poirot's true style - 'Mais, Oui...More films, please. Merci'.

Film - 'Murder on the Orient Express' (2017 by Michael Green)
Link - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_on_the_Orient_Express_(2017_film
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3402236/