Detective Hercule Poirot takes the screen again in the newest film rendition of Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express.” The film brings together an all-star cast including the Irish actor, director and producer Kenneth Branagh, the “Hamilton” star Leslie Odom Jr., the versatile Johnny Depp and the iconic Judi Dench.

The story begins with esteemed detective Hercule Poirat, in Jerusalem completing one of his puzzling cases. While heading to England for another case, Poirat must travel on the Orient Express accompanied by an assortment of colorful characters. The mystery begins with the murder of one of the passengers. Through  scenes of drama and wit, Poirat must interview his fellow passengers to find out the truth. Comedic occurrences break up the often dark and chilling storyline. The frigid weather conditions add to the eeriness aboard the Orient Express.          

Poirat discovers a connection to a past kidnapping and murder while investigating and collecting stories. The morning after the homicide, an avalanche collapses on the Orient Express and shifts the train off the tracks; Hercule Poirat must work under these conditions and solve the crime before the train takes off again. As each of the passengers are revealed to have a connection to the victim, Poirat’s case grows into a spider web of lies and intrigue. The breathtaking scenery outside the train’s windows enhances the story and transports viewers to another place and time while each of the characters are unique in their personality, style and background.

The pre-World War II era comes to life with the fashion and flair of each of the characters. Every person brings suspicion and confusion to the already perplexing murder. Audiences question the moves of each character and imagine every individual’s possible motive over the course of the timeline. The eccentricities of these women and men are portrayed through the seasoned acting of the cast. At the film’s conclusion, Poirat, anxious to obtain some rest and relaxation, is informed of another murder in Cairo, Egypt on the Nile River that needs his immediate attention. As people who value an excellent film, we definitely recommend “Murder on the Orient Express” for all murder mystery movie lovers.