Kenneth Branagh has made a successful turn in the film universe as Agatha Christie’s eccentric but luvable Hercule Poirot in A Haunting in Venice, Agatha Christie’s murder mystery set in Venice, Italy. I absolutely enjoy his interpretation of the egghead detective but he is no match–and I mean NO MATCH–for David Suchet’s masterful portrayal.

You might appreciate Tina Fey’s turn as Poirot’s longtime friend, Ariadne Oliver, mystery writer, though Ariadne’s twist is hurtful, and Poirot feels it in his core. Michelle Yeoh marvels as the enigmatic Mrs. Reynolds.

As it is the cinematography in Murder on the Orient Express and Murder on the Nile, the visuals of Venice are stunning, thanks to cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos, and John Paul Kelly’s interiors are shrouded in delightful shadows and mystery.

Add A Haunting in Venice to your Halloween watchlist. You will not be disappointed.

A word to the wise is sufficient: If you get all twisted and contorted and begin to hiss and spit at a spoiler, read no further:

Parents, be careful: Your children watch you and those around you. They watch your treatment by others, even your friends. Most important, be careful what notes and such you leave around the house. Children are curious, and they will read them. Reading is one thing but to COMPREHEND what is written by you is another. It could get you killed.

And that’s The Skinny!

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In the meantime, Catch a film. Share the Popcorn. Feed Your Soul!