Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot investigates a murder while attending a Halloween seance at a haunted palazzo in Venice, Italy.
Release date: September 15, 2023 (USA)
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Screenplay: Michael Green
Adapted from: Hallowe’en Party
Distributed by: 20th Century Studios
Cinematography: Haris Zambarloukos
Agatha Christie remains unparalleled as the best-selling fiction author in history, renowned as the supreme creator of mystery novels. Her stories have seen numerous adaptations for the screen and continue to serve as a fundamental wellspring of inspiration for detective films even long after her era. Recent mystery movies like “Knives Out” and “Bad Times at the El Royale” unmistakably draw from Christie’s legacy. These films enthrall audiences with an engaging guessing game presented in a dramatic fashion, woven intricately with unexpected turns. Following the successes of “Murder on the Orient Express” and “Death on the Nile,” the announcement of a third modern Hercule Poirot film, slated for release in the latter part of next year, is met with enthusiastic anticipation.
A Haunting in Venice be in Trailer
A Haunting in Venice be in Theaters
Similar to its predecessors, “A Haunting in Venice” will follow suit with a theatrical release. These movies are meticulously crafted for the big screen experience—grand, daring, and utterly captivating. Their substantial box office earnings underscore their cinematic nature, and they’re intentionally tailored for the immersive theater environment rather than being suited for smaller screens. Globally, “Murder on the Orient Express” amassed over $351 million, while “Death on the Nile” brought in $137.3 million earlier this year. Enthusiasts of Detective Poirot and his exhilarating exploits eagerly await each new installment. “A Haunting in Venice” is poised to maintain this tradition.
Once its theater run concludes, the film will eventually become available for streaming exclusively on Hulu. Just like the second installment, “Death on the Nile,” which is currently accessible on both Hulu and HBO Max, fans can enjoy the movie’s mysteries from the comfort of their screens.
Story of A Haunting in Venice
In this latest installment, the detective story takes on a supernatural twist. The narrative unfolds in post-World War II Italy, with Detective Hercule Poirot now leading a reclusive existence in Venice after retiring. Despite his reluctance, he’s compelled to attend a séance after being invited, albeit with a sense of resistance. Tragedy strikes when a guest is murdered within the eerie confines of the haunted palazzo where the séance is conducted. This unfortunate event forces Poirot to step out of his retirement, reigniting his dormant detective instincts. As he delves into the perplexing case, he unveils a concealed realm of mysteries and reawakens the specters of a forgotten history.
The initial film, “Murder on the Orient Express,” transpires aboard a luxurious train populated by affluent passengers, traversing wintry conditions en route to London, England. The train becomes marooned due to an avalanche, and amidst this crisis, a passenger is discovered murdered, prompting Detective Poirot to unravel the mystery. Its sequel, “Death on the Nile,” unfolds on an Egyptian cruise ship, echoing a similar storyline. Both films are captivating and charismatic, characterized by masterful cinematography, vibrant color palettes, and visually compelling sequences. They exhibit audacious filmmaking and remarkable production values. However, the third installment, “A Haunting in Venice,” takes a slightly divergent path by embracing supernatural elements within its plot and setting. Viewing these movies is an experience in itself. Audiences can expect the customary blend of action and crime-solving, but within a haunting and eerie backdrop. Shadows will ominously loom, and long-concealed secrets will spring to life.
The official synopsis from 20th Century Studios reads:
“A Haunting in Venice” is set in eerie, post-World War II Venice on All Hallows’ Eve, “A Haunting in Venice” is a terrifying mystery featuring the return of the celebrated sleuth, Hercule Poirot. Now retired and living in self-imposed exile in the world’s most glamorous city, Poirot reluctantly attends a séance at a decaying, haunted palazzo. When one of the guests is murdered, the detective is thrust into a sinister world of shadows and secrets.“
Cast in A Haunting in Venice
As anticipated and previously mentioned, Kenneth Branagh reprises his role as Detective Hercule Poirot. The remaining cast members include esteemed talents such as Tina Fey from “30 Rock,” portraying Ariadne Oliver, Jaime Dornan of “Belfast” as Mr. Ferrier, Jude Hill from “Belfast” as Leopold Ferrier, Kelly Reilly known for “Yellowstone” as Rowena Drake, Academy Award-winning Michelle Yeoh from “Everything Everywhere All at Once” as Joyce Reynolds, Emma Laird seen in “Mayor of Kingstown” as Desdemona Holland, Kyle Allen known for “Rosaline” as Maxime Gerard, Camille Cottin from “House of Gucci” as Olga Seminoff, Ali Khan from “The School for Good and Evil” as Nicholas Holland, and Riccardo Scamarcio recognized for “John Wick: Chapter 2” as Vitale Portfoglio.
Creative Team Behind A Haunting in Venice?
Much like Kenneth Branagh taking on the role of director, numerous team members from “Murder on the Orient Express” and “Death on the Nile” are reuniting for “A Haunting in Venice.” The screenplay was crafted by Michael Green, the same writer responsible for the previous two films. Producers Judy Hoffman, Mark Gordon, Simon Kinberg, Ridley Scott, and James Prichard are all making a return, with the addition of Lousie Killin from “Wrath of Man” joining as an executive producer. The film is being produced under the banner of 20th Century Studios. Considering the immense success of “Murder on the Orient Express” and “Death on the Nile” as major blockbusters, the continuity of this skilled crew suggests that “A Haunting in Venice” is poised to meet and even exceed the lofty expectations set by its predecessors.
