A Haunting in Venice (2023)

A Haunting In Venice had to compete with the Rusthall annual fireworks.  Our small discussion group felt the film didn’t really spark for us. Yes, it had a spooky atmosphere, a Gothic palazzo setting. it was well filmed and lit. There were some pleasing performances, with young Jude Hill impressing us all.  Kenneth Branagh’s Poirot moustache failed to be nominated for an Oscar.

However, some of us felt it was longwinded and that’s always a giveaway – you should always leave an audience wanting more, not less.  In terms of quality, it couldn’t touch another Venice based film, the remarkable Don’t Look Now. In fact, we weren’t that sure why it was set in Venice at all, as Agatha Christie’s original Halloween Party (1969) wasn’t.

There was some discussion about whether we expected the ending – some of us did. Poirot’s ability to “solve a man’s family problems in ten seconds” was commented upon, as was the pacing of a very fast murder.  A key dark moment appeared “hilarious” to a couple of the group.  The message of the film was suggested –‘don’t go to a séance on Halloween.’

This was really a film for Agatha Christie fans and those who’ve enjoyed Branagh’s two previous outings as Poirot, which he has also directed.  We weren’t sure why it cost 60m dollars to make, especially as Anora, our previous film, was just 6m.

Despite our criticisms, it was an entertaining evening, washed down with cocktails, cake and good company. It went with a bang.

Anne.