Murder on the Orient Express (2017) Review
The film follows the world-renowned Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, who is seeking a quiet trip back to London on the luxurious Orient Express. However, the journey is interrupted when the train is derailed by a snowdrift and a wealthy, unpleasant businessman named Samuel Ratchett (Johnny Depp) is found murdered in his cabin—stabbed 12 times. Follow FaceBook
With the train stuck and 13 strangers acting as suspects, Poirot must solve the case before the killer strikes again.
What Makes it Shine
A Visual Masterpiece: Shot on 70mm film, the movie is breathtakingly beautiful. The sprawling snowy landscapes, the opulent Art Deco train interiors, and the period costumes create a rich, immersive atmosphere.Follow FaceBook
All-Star Ensemble: The cast is a “who’s who” of Hollywood, featuring Judi Dench, Michelle Pfeiffer, Willem Dafoe, Penélope Cruz, and Daisy Ridley. Michelle Pfeiffer, in particular, delivers a standout, emotionally resonant performance.
The Mustache: Kenneth Branagh’s Poirot features an epic, double-decker mustache that is closer to the “magnificent” description in the books than previous versions, even if it is a bit polarizing!
Deepened Ending: Without spoiling it, the 2017 version adds a layer of moral weight and emotional “gray area” to the conclusion that feels more dramatic than the matter-of-fact ending of the book.
The Cons: Where it Falters
Style Over Substance: Because there are so many A-list actors, most characters don’t get enough screen time to feel fully developed. They often feel like “sketches” rather than real people. Follow Instagram
Unnecessary Action: To appeal to modern audiences, the film adds chase scenes and a bridge standoff that weren’t in the book. For mystery purists, these feel “forced” and out of character for a Poirot story.
The “Action Hero” Poirot: Branagh portrays Poirot with a bit more physical aggression and “Sherlock Holmes-style” flair, which some fans felt took away from the quiet, intellectual brilliance of the character.
1974 vs. 2017: Which one should you watch?
| Feature | 1974 Version (Sidney Lumet) | 2017 Version (Kenneth Branagh) |
| Poirot | Albert Finney (Eccentric & Cynical) | Kenneth Branagh (Emotional & Imposing) |
| Atmosphere | Claustrophobic & Stage-like | Grand, Epic, and Cinematic |
| Pacing | Slow, methodical interrogation | Faster-paced with added action |
| Best For | Agatha Christie purists | Fans of modern, visual blockbusters |
The Verdict
Rating: 3.5/5
The 2017 Murder on the Orient Express is a solid bit of Hollywood entertainment. It’s a gorgeous, well-acted “popcorn mystery” that introduces a classic story to a new generation. While it sacrifices some of the book’s intellectual depth for cinematic flair, it remains a fun and engrossing ride.