Barrett Brief Movie Review – A Slow Burn Death On The Nile

Barrett Brief Movie Review – A Slow Burn Death On The Nile (3 out of 4)

Summary: While on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.

Genre: Crime, Mystery, Drama

Death On The Nile is the 2nd film from Kenneth Branagh based on the works of Agatha Christie focusing on the exploits of Belgian detective Hercule Poirot. The first, the 2017 Murder on the Orient Express was a modest success making $351,767,147 worldwide on a $55 million budget. I enjoyed the 2017 film for the period piece that it was. There was nothing objectionable and to see Branagh lose himself in the portal of Poirot was enjoyable. So I was excited to see that another film had been green lit. After much delay, Death On The Nile is released this week and I have to say that it did not disappoint. These period pieces by Branagh was very well done, excellently cast and a throwback to the old murder mystery genre that the American public doesn’t get to see that often. The slower pace this movie provides is not a hindrance, as it is needed to build up the tension and keep the audience guessing. Death On The Nile is a throwback to the days of old for Hollywood, not relying on CGI and scandal, but a solid script and excellent performances. 

Exotic Locations & Suspects Everywhere 

The modern murder mystery consist of dreary locations and over the top violence. It is the same formula that has been beaten to death (pun intended) since the 80’s. That is what makes Murder on the Orient Express & Death On The Nile. Partly due to the source material and to the direction of Branagh, these films stand out. With their exotic locations and sweeping shots that the director loves to employ, it is easy to get lost in the setting of the film. Yes, the CGI is noticeable in some scenes, but it is what is necessary to get that type of shot. Besides most of those are establishing shots that are impossible without the use of technology, so I am more than happy to give it a pass. As with Murder on the Orient Express, the script does a good job of keeping you guessing. At 127 minutes, the film is deliberate in setting the scene and establishing each character, why they are there, and when the murder(s) start, why they are a suspect. No one is above reproach. I changed my pick 2 times during the film, and I was still pleasantly surprised at who is reveled at the end. It is definitely written for a much more intelligent audience. 

 The Cast

Kenneth Branagh (Hercule Poirot) is continuing to grow into the role of the legendary detective. Much like Poirot himself, Branagh brings the details and quirks that makes him such a memorable character. I hope to see more of these stories told. Gal Gadot (Linnet Ridgeway) plays to her strengths, glamorous movie start. Letitia Wright (Rosalie Otterbourne) is actually likable in this role, able to show more range than she was allowed to in Black Panther. Sophie Okonedo (Salome Otterbourne) absolutely nails her role, bringing some much need energy that helps through the runtime. Armie Hammer (Simon Doyle) plays big and dumb very well. Emma Mackey (Jacqueline de Bellefort) is a newcomer and outside of Branagh gets the most material to work with. She takes advantage of it and her presence is felt in every frame she is in. Tom Bateman (Bouc) returns and his chemistry with Branagh helps to bridge the two films and gives it a sense of a larger story being told. Annette Bening (Euphemia Bouc) helps bring different aspects to the group and keeps the dynamic of kilter, which is good in a murder mystery. Rose Leslie (Louise Bourget) is very good with the material she is given. Ali Fazal (Katchadourian) was excellent in his role. Jennifer Saunders & Dawn French (Marie Van Schuyler & Bowers respectively) play to type and Russell Brand (Windlesham) does well playing against type. I cannot go into further detail without spoiling the film. 

Highs & Lows

Highs: All star cast, beautiful scenic shots, the continuation of Branagh’s turn as Hercule Poirot

Lows: Some may have a problem with the pacing. 

Overall

Death On The Nile is a throwback to the days of old for Hollywood, not relying on CGI and scandal, but a solid script and excellent performances.

Score:

3 out of 4 briefcases