Review of Murder on the Orient Express

I went to see Murder on the Orient express with the whole family (sans a couple of siblings) as critics had recommended that this film was best treated as a family excursion. Bit radical for me as I’m usually a solo cinema goer but for better or worse; the family’s enthusiasm and energetic words of praise may in fact supplement my review. For me the film under-delivered in places but I think the satisfied response from others suggests to me the film is experience over substance.

There was plenty of experiential features to the film. A Majestic score accompanies sweeping snowy mountain scenery creating a sense of escapism. Although the wider more cinematic shots where impressive I do believe the films main strengths lie in the moments aboard the Orient Express. The costuming and set design are striking and detailed. A frenzy of fabulousness fills carriages, which is particularly true of the elaborate construction that is Judy Dench in Russian Princess form. The dynamic shots choices allow you to experience the train from all angles. Sometimes you are a voyeuristic passenger, sometimes flying along outside or peering through the window and in one particularly effective shot we witness a key plot point from the ceiling of the train. However I wanted the film to use more effects that generate a chilling sense of unease as I felt the atmosphere of mystery was weak. One reason for this was that many key developments where drip fed throughout causing the reveal at the end to feel less climactic. I felt more details should have been withheld and the suspense to be generated in their absence.

One feature of the film that was incredibly strong was the performances. Being that I’m not a sheep I’m going to be the one person that doesn't use the term ‘Stella Cast’ but admittedly there were some impressive players at work. Kenneth Branagh captured my attention the most. I have heard a lot of criticism about Branagh's accent being perhaps a little gimmicky. Personally however, I feel that the written character of Hercule Poirot is all about theatre and eccentricity and for me Branagh gave a measured performance acknowledging both entertainment value and substance. Not to mention the most devastating blue eyes that would turn the attention of the most monogamous Paul Hollywood fan. Johnny Depp also did an exceptional job within his role, playing the repulsive and unnerving Mr Rachette. During the long exchange between Poirot and Rachette, there is a deeply unsettling atmosphere generated my Depp, despite the fact they are presently sharing a pudding.

Also to the films credit there are inventive visual choices made. When Poirot starts questioning suspects, one particular inquest is held at a little table placed next to the train tracks with tea served in posh china, surrounded by snow. 

Whilst I do feel that Murder on the Orient was able to deliver an experience and one that my family enjoyed start to finish, I do feel that the emotion mongering scenes where a bit too over laboured and teetering on cheesy. This is not to say that the script was all weak as there where some tremendously quotable lines from other parts of the film. Murder on the Orient Express isn't re-watchable enough to become a family favourite, but if it was a feature length advert for a long distance sleeper train experience - I would take it!