Murder On The Orient Express

After the success of grimy urban thriller Serpico, director Lumet adopted an altogether more genteel approach to crime. Based on Agatha Christie's well-loved murder-mystery, Murder On The Orient Express is the vehicle for a stream of high profile star-turns, all of them highly enjoyable, but none of them holding a candle to Finney's implacable Poirot.

The plot hinges on the death of an American businessmen aboard the Istanbul-bound Express. With the number of suspects reduced to twelve first class passengers, Poirot swings into action and discovers that all of them had both motive and opportunity.

In look and tone it's pleasingly old fashioned and each of the big names gets to play to their strengths. Thus Connery's crusty Colonel has an eye for the ladies, Gielgud's Beddoes is a disdainful toff and Poirot himself fusses around marvelling at human stupidity. A spectacular opening sequence renders the film a little front heavy but Lumet negotiates the plots' twists and turns with style and minimal delay.

Verdict
Ever-enjoyable murder mystery that benefits from stylish direction, an expert cast and an undertone of dry humour.