A Haunting in Venice (2023) Review

For a third time, Kenneth Branagh dons the impeccable moustache of Hercule Poirot and takes us on another journey into the enigmatic world of Agatha Christie. This time, in A Haunting in Venice, Branagh doesn’t merely explore the depths of human psychology but he ventures into the realm of the supernatural, adding an intriguing layer to his portrayal of the iconic detective.

The film whisks us away to 1947, a decade after the events of Death on the Nile, finding Poirot retired and residing in the atmospheric city of Venice. It’s a visual feast for the senses, as Branagh masterfully captures the allure of this historical backdrop.

Tina Fey shines as Ariadne Oliver, a character reminiscent of Christie herself, bringing a delightful touch of sass and wit to the proceedings. Her novels, largely inspired by Poirot’s adventures, have hit a slump, and she seeks inspiration in the form of a séance – a séance that promises to be anything but ordinary.

What ensues is a classic Christie setup: a group of diverse and intriguing characters, each harboring secrets and motives, gathered in a Venetian palazzo for a séance. Kelly Reilly portrays the grieving Rowena Drake with a twist, and Michelle Yeoh captivates as the confident medium, Mrs. Richards. But as the séance unfolds, things take an eerie turn, blurring the lines between the supernatural and the rational.

Branagh’s Poirot is, as ever, meticulous and fussy, yet with a hint of newfound vulnerability. It’s a testament to his command of the character that Poirot’s relentless pursuit of truth remains engaging, even as he grapples with inexplicable events.

The film’s atmosphere is its crowning achievement, with Haris Zambarloukos’ cinematography creating an otherworldly sense of unease. Shadows dance, angles tilt, and the mansion itself becomes a character in its own right. Branagh’s decision to delve into the supernatural pays off, as the audience is kept on edge, unsure whether the eerie occurrences can be explained through reason or if something otherworldly is truly at play.

Jamie Dornan’s chemistry with the rest of the ensemble cast is clear, particularly in his interactions with Kenneth Branagh’s Hercule Poirot and Tina Fey’s Ariadne Oliver. His character adds depth to the film’s suspenseful atmosphere, and he plays a crucial part in keeping the audience guessing as the mystery unfolds. Dornan’s ability to switch between dramatic and tense moments and inject moments of vulnerability into his character’s psyche undoubtedly adds an extra layer of intrigue to the film.

In many ways, A Haunting in Venice embraces the spirit of classic Christie, while Branagh adds his own directorial flair. Of course, it’s less a horror film and more a supernatural thriller, as the detective must navigate a maze of deception, secrets, and, perhaps, genuine apparitions.

Critics may argue that Branagh’s Poirot lacks the modern edge of characters like Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc (Knives Out film series), but that’s precisely what makes this portrayal endearing. Poirot’s eccentricities and fastidiousness remain as charming as ever.

A Haunting in Venice offers a captivating blend of the classic and the supernatural. As a horror fan, it’s nice to have one of Agatha Christie’s more spooky works committed to celluloid instead of the many other more formulaic whodunnits. It is also a testament to Branagh’s prowess as both actor and director that he breathes fresh life into a well-loved character. While the mystery may not be as intricate as some Christie tales, the film’s atmosphere and performances make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Branagh has truly grown into the role of Poirot, and his Venice adventure is a delightful addition to the Poirot cinematic universe. As we leave the haunted palazzo, one can’t help but wonder which (if any) of the classic crime novels will hit our big screens next.

Movie Rating:

A Haunting in Venice trailer