Agatha Christie’s novel Murder on the Orient Express was first published in 1934. The plot revolves around a murder that occurs on the Orient Express, a train that runs from Istanbul to Calais. Belgian investigator Hercule Poirot is on the case. He questions each passenger in order to narrow down the suspicions. He eventually solves the case.
For those who aren’t familiar with the genre this is one of the most known and well-loved murder mystery novels of all time, Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express has been lauded by critics and fans alike for its cunning storyline, intriguing characters, and thrilling writing. The 1934 novel follows detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates the murder of an American businessman on the eponymous train. All of the passengers are potential suspects, making it much more difficult for Poirot to solve the case using his sharp deductive talents alone.
Christie has been hailed by reviewers for her intricate planning, which keeps readers guessing right up until the final page. Readers have praised her clever character development and the way she uses red herrings and false leads to keep people guessing. The characters in Murder on the Orient Express are complex and well-drawn, making them both believable and sympathetic. Not only is Christie’s plot exciting and excitingly written, but her style is straightforward and simple.
In sum, Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express is a timeless story that justifies its status as a literary classic.
It is an interesting side note, but Christie travel by this express significantly which ran for three centuries, between 1883 and 2009, and the Orient Express lived up to its name as a luxury train service. The service was known for its European routes that included stops in Paris, Istanbul, and Vienna.
This was an excellent read for me. Which means that it was a quick read with good suspense. I didn’t realize just who the murderer was the first time I read it untill the very end. Anyone who enjoys mysteries should read this book.
The novel is a classic murder mystery that follows world-famous investigator Hercule Poirot as he tries to investigate a murder aboard the Orient Express. The book is full of unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader thinking until the very end. Christie’s writing is excellent, and the novel is a page-turner. If you enjoy mysteries, this is a book you will not want to miss.
Murder on the Orient Express on Film
Sidney Lumet directed the 1974 film adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel “Murder on the Orient Express,” which starred Albert Finney as Hercule Poirot. The film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won three of them.
Poirot investigates the murder of a wealthy American traveler aboard the Orient Express in the film. The suspects are all train passengers, and Poirot must use his analytical skills to find the killer before the train arrives at its final destination.
The film stayed mostly true to the text, with a few alterations to match the medium of film. The film, for example, consolidated the book’s numerous timelines into a single chronology. A storyline involving a love triangle involving three of the passengers was also introduced to the film.
The film’s superb performances, notably Finney’s portrayal of Poirot, and gripping plot were hailed by critics. Some people thought the film’s finale was unsatisfying since it diverged from the book’s resolution.
Albert Finney refused to reprise his part as Hercule Poirot in later film versions of the books because he believed he had done everything he could with the character. He also believed that other performers should be given the opportunity to play the role. Apart from that, he despised wearing the “fat suite” on the sweltering sound stage.
The film adaption of “Murder on the Orient Express” starring David Suchet was released in 2010. Suchet played Poirot in the television adaptation.
The film stayed mostly true to the novel, with a few alterations to the plot and characters. For example, Poirot in the film is more emotional and vulnerable than Poirot in the book, and the film introduces a new character, Miss Lemon.
The film received positive reviews from critics for its superb performances, specifically Suchet’s depiction of Poirot, and for its realistic interpretation of the original story.
Kenneth Branagh directed the 2017 film adaption of “Murder on the Orient Express,” which starred Branagh as Hercule Poirot. Critics gave the movie mixed reviews.
The film stayed mostly true to the novel, with some alterations to the plot and characters. The film’s Poirot, for example, is more narcissistic and vain than the novel’s Poirot, and the film adds a new character, Dr. Arbuthnot, who does not appear in the book.
The film’s graphics and performances were acclaimed by critics, but many believed that the changes made to the source material were unwarranted and that the picture was too long.
Suchet’s performance is my favorite since it feels the most genuine.