Notes

"A Haunting in Venice," directed by Kenneth Branagh, marks the third installment in Branagh's series of Agatha Christie adaptations, following "Murder on the Orient Express" and "Death on the Nile." In this film, Branagh once again dons the mustache of the meticulous detective Hercule Poirot, bringing to life a lesser-known Christie novel, "Hallowe'en Party."

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of post-World War II Venice, the film deviates somewhat from Christie's original work, infusing it with a gothic horror flair that distinguishes it from traditional whodunits. The narrative kicks off with Poirot, now retired and living in self-imposed exile in Venice, being drawn into a mystery that straddles the supernatural and the sinisterly human. He is reluctantly convinced to attend a séance at a decaying palazzo, hosted by the enigmatic medium Joyce Reynolds (played by Michelle Yeoh).

Branagh's direction effectively capitalizes on the eerie and labyrinthine setting of Venice. The city's winding canals, shadowy alleyways, and the hauntingly beautiful palazzo create a palpable sense of dread and claustrophobia. Haris Zambarloukos' cinematography is a standout, using dim lighting and tight, enclosed frames to heighten the tension and mystery. Each shot seems meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of unease, perfectly complementing the film's thematic elements.

The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, with Branagh's Poirot remaining the anchor. His portrayal of the famed detective is layered and introspective, showing a man grappling with his past and his beliefs in the face of unexplainable events. Yeoh's portrayal of the medium is captivating, blending charisma with an air of otherworldly mystery. Supporting roles, including those by Tina Fey as mystery writer Ariadne Oliver and Jamie Dornan as the war-tormented doctor Leslie Ferrier, add depth and complexity to the narrative.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to blend genres. While it remains a mystery at its core, the infusion of horror elements—such as unsettling visions, eerie atmospherics, and sudden frights—adds a fresh twist to the Christie formula. This genre-blending approach keeps the audience on edge, never quite certain whether the unfolding events have a supernatural explanation or are rooted in human machinations. The screenplay, penned by Michael Green, balances these elements well, though at times it veers into predictability.

Thematically, "A Haunting in Venice" explores themes of grief, guilt, and the search for redemption. Poirot's personal journey is central to this exploration, as he confronts his own ghosts and the moral ambiguities of his profession. The film raises questions about belief and skepticism, effectively using the séance as a metaphor for the human desire to connect with the past and seek closure.

In conclusion, "A Haunting in Venice" is a visually striking and thematically rich addition to Branagh's Christie adaptations. It successfully melds mystery and horror to create a uniquely atmospheric film that stands apart from its predecessors. While it may not appeal to all fans of the genre, it offers a fresh and engaging take on a classic detective story, anchored by strong performances and a hauntingly beautiful setting. I would say that this movie is outstanding.