12 Mystery Films Adapted from Agatha Christie Books, A Must-Watch for Puzzle Lovers

Kapanlagi.com - Agatha Christie is known as one of the most influential mystery novelists of all time, with works that continue to be read across generations to this day. The popularity of her stories has attracted many directors to bring the tales of detective Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple to the big and small screens, resulting in various titles known as mystery films adapted from Agatha Christie’s books, beloved by audiences in many countries, including Indonesia. Each title offers a complex murder puzzle, a plot full of surprises, and exotic settings ranging from luxurious European trains to the banks of the Nile River in Egypt.

For casual readers who are just starting to become interested in the classic mystery genre, these films can be a fun entry point before reading the original novels. In addition to being entertaining, these shows also teach logical thinking in unraveling clues until the true perpetrator is revealed. Here’s a list of mystery films adapted from Agatha Christie’s books.

1. 1. Murder on the Orient Express (1974)

Murder on the Orient Express (1974)/IMDb

This film is directed by Sidney Lumet and is based on the novel of the same name published in 1934. The story centers around detective Hercule Poirot, played by Albert Finney, as he investigates the murder of a wealthy passenger aboard a luxury train trapped in snow. A lineup of famous actors also stars in this film, including Ingrid Bergman, who won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.

The story takes place in a very confined space, namely inside the train car, making each passenger an automatic prime suspect. Poirot must interview each passenger one by one to match alibis and uncover inconsistencies among them. The tension escalates as the train cannot move due to the snow pile, making it impossible for the murderer to escape.

This classic film has become one of the most iconic adaptations because it successfully captures the luxurious atmosphere of the 1930s in great detail. The twist at the end of the story is often referred to as one of the best surprises in the history of mystery films. For Indonesian viewers who enjoy classic detective stories, this 1974 version is a suitable watch as a comparison to the more modern remake.

2. 2. Death on the Nile (1978)

Death on the Nile (1978)/IMDb

Death on the Nile 1978 is adapted from the Agatha Christie novel published in 1937 and directed by John Guillermin. Peter Ustinov plays Hercule Poirot in this film, a role he would later reprise in several other adaptations. The story follows a murder case that occurs aboard a luxury cruise ship sailing along the Nile River in Egypt.

Poirot, who is on vacation, is reluctantly drawn into action after a wealthy woman is found murdered in her cabin. All the passengers have hidden motives, making the investigation complicated and full of surprises. The backdrop of Ancient Egypt with pyramids and temple ruins adds an exotic atmosphere rarely found in other mystery films of its time.

This film successfully won an Oscar for Best Costume Design thanks to the detailed work of its costume team. The success of Death on the Nile proves that Agatha Christie’s stories can endure and remain relevant even when made decades after the publication of her novels. For viewers who enjoy a blend of mystery and visual beauty, this film is highly recommended.

3. 3. Evil Under the Sun (1982)

Evil Under the Sun (1982)/IMDb

Evil Under the Sun is an adaptation of Agatha Christie's novel published in 1941, directed by Guy Hamilton with Peter Ustinov reprising his role as Poirot. This time, the story is set in an exclusive island resort in the Adriatic Sea filled with wealthy guests. A famous actress is found dead on the beach, triggering a lengthy investigation involving almost all the resort guests.

Each guest at the resort has a complicated relationship with the victim, ranging from hatred to business rivalry. Poirot, who happens to be on vacation at the same place, is eventually brought in to uncover who the real culprit is. The plot unfolds leisurely yet remains tense, characteristic of Agatha Christie's storytelling style during that era.

The film showcases the beauty of the bright shooting locations, contrasting with the dark theme of murder. The combination of light comedy and mystery makes Evil Under the Sun feel different from other Poirot films. This film is perfect for casual viewing for audiences who want to enjoy a classic mystery without too much tension.

4. 4. Murder on the Orient Express (2017)

Murder on the Orient Express (2017)/IMDb

Kenneth Branagh directed and starred as Hercule Poirot in this modern remake of the classic 1934 novel. The film features a lineup of big stars such as Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Judi Dench, and Penélope Cruz on one screen. The story remains true to the original plot, which involves the investigation of a murder of a train passenger trapped in the snow in the mountains.

The visuals of this film are crafted far more grandly compared to the 1974 version, with cinematography that delights the eyes of modern viewers. Branagh presents Poirot with a touch of character that is more emotional and human compared to the previous version. Each suspect still has hidden motives that are revealed one by one towards the end of the story.

This film serves as the opener for Branagh's Poirot trilogy, which is followed by two subsequent films. Its box office success proves that Agatha Christie's classic mystery stories are still appealing to today's audiences. This version is suitable for casual viewers who want to get to know the character of Poirot through a fresher visual presentation.

5. 5. Death on the Nile (2022)

Death on the Nile (2022)/IMDb

Kenneth Branagh returns to direct and star as Poirot in the remake of Death on the Nile, which was released in 2022. The film features Gal Gadot, Armie Hammer, and Emma Mackey as part of the cruise ship passenger ensemble. Similar to the 1978 version, the story revolves around a mysterious murder aboard a ship sailing down the Nile River.

Branagh adds a deeper background of a love triangle before the murder occurs, giving emotional weight to each character. Modern visual effects are used to vividly recreate the grandeur and detail of ancient Egypt. Poirot must investigate each passenger on the ship, all of whom harbor secrets and hidden motives.

This film serves as a continuation of the success of the 2017 version of Murder on the Orient Express in building Branagh's cinematic universe of Poirot. While it received mixed responses from critics, the film remains entertaining for fans of classic detective stories. Death on the Nile 2022 is suitable for those who enjoy mystery dramas with a touch of romance.

6. 6. A Haunting in Venice (2023)

A Haunting in Venice (2023)/IMDb

A Haunting in Venice is adapted from Agatha Christie's novel titled Hallowe'en Party, published in 1969, with Kenneth Branagh returning to direct and play Poirot. Unlike the previous two films that were full of bright colors, this film takes on a dark and eerie tone typical of ghost stories. The story is set in an old palace in Venice, which is said to be haunted by a restless spirit.

Poirot, who is enjoying his retirement, is forced to intervene after a guest is killed during a séance party. The dark and mysterious atmosphere of the palace makes this film feel more tense compared to other Poirot adaptations. Each party guest harbors dark secrets that gradually unfold as Poirot's investigation progresses.

This film is described as the boldest adaptation because it combines elements of classic mystery with a psychological horror vibe. Premiering in Indonesia in September 2023, the film received positive feedback from local audiences who enjoy the mystery thriller genre. A Haunting in Venice is suitable for those who want to experience a different side of Agatha Christie's detective stories that is more chilling.

7. 7. And Then There Were None (1945)

And Then There Were None (1945)/IMDb

And Then There Were None is the first adaptation of Agatha Christie's novel of the same name published in 1939, directed by René Clair. This 1945 version is widely regarded as the best adaptation because it successfully delivers a palpable tension despite being made in a classic black-and-white style. The story follows ten strangers who are invited to spend the weekend on a remote island.

One by one, the guests on the island die mysteriously, following the pattern of a nursery rhyme that hangs on the wall of the house. The tension continues to rise as the guests realize that the killer is likely one of their own. There is no way off the island, causing suspicion and fear to mount throughout the story.

This novel has been adapted many times throughout history, including the 1974 version and the 2015 miniseries. However, the 1945 version remains the reference point as it is considered the most faithful in presenting the tense and classic atmosphere of the original story. This film is suitable for viewers who want to trace the roots of the mystery story formula of "people trapped in an isolated place" that is now widely imitated.

8. 8. Witness for the Prosecution (1957)

Witness for the Prosecution (1957)/IMDb

Witness for the Prosecution is directed by Billy Wilder and adapted from a short story and play by Agatha Christie. The film stars Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich, and Charles Laughton in a courtroom drama filled with surprises. The story revolves around a lawyer defending a man accused of murdering a wealthy woman.

Throughout the trial, various shocking testimonies emerge, including from the defendant's own wife, whose statements change in court. The tension is built not through chase scenes, but through sharp dialogue and arguments in the courtroom. This storytelling style showcases Agatha Christie’s skill in writing mysteries beyond the conventional detective formula.

The film received six Academy Award nominations in 1958 due to its strong acting and screenplay. The twist at the end of the story is often referred to as one of the best surprises in the history of legal drama films. Witness for the Prosecution is suitable for viewers who enjoy mysteries with a more intellectual storytelling style and sharp dialogue.

9. 9. Crooked House (2017)

Crooked House (2017)/IMDb

Crooked House is adapted from Agatha Christie's 1949 novel, which in Indonesia is translated as Josephine's Notebook. The film is directed by Gilles Paquet-Brenner and stars Max Irons, Glenn Close, and Stefanie Martini. The story revolves around the mysterious death of a wealthy man named Aristide Leonides in his family's large house.

The victim's granddaughter, Sophia, suspects that the murderer is one of her own family members, so she hires private detective Charles Hayward to investigate the case. Each member of the Leonides family has reasons and motives that could lead to murder accusations. The cold atmosphere of the large house, filled with family secrets, adds to the tension throughout the film.

Unlike most other Agatha Christie films, Crooked House does not feature iconic detectives like Poirot or Miss Marple. Instead, this makes the film feel fresher as the audience is invited to guess the culprit without being tied to the familiar investigative style of well-known characters. This film is suitable for viewers who enjoy dark family dramas with a touch of murder mystery.

10. 10. The ABC Murders (2018)

The ABC Murders (2018)/IMDb

The ABC Murders is a miniseries adapted from the 1936 novel by Agatha Christie, featuring John Malkovich as Hercule Poirot. In this story, Poirot receives a series of mysterious letters containing threats known as "ABC letters." Each letter directs Poirot to a new location, where he always finds the next murder victim.

The alphabetical pattern of the murders makes the case feel like a large puzzle that must be solved piece by piece. Poirot, who is now getting older, is portrayed as more emotionally vulnerable compared to his depiction in previous films. Rupert Grint also stars as a police detective who initially doubts Poirot's ability to solve the case.

The miniseries format allows for a deeper exploration of Poirot's psychological background compared to standard-length films. The dark and gloomy atmosphere presented makes The ABC Murders feel different from lighter adaptations of Poirot. This miniseries is suitable for viewers who want to see a different side of Poirot, one that is more fragile and human.

11. 11. Ordeal by Innocence (2018)

Ordeal by Innocence (2018)/IMDb

Ordeal by Innocence is a BBC miniseries adapted from the 1958 novel by Agatha Christie, known in Indonesia by the title The Missing Link. Bill Nighy stars in this story centered on the murder accusation against a young man named Jacko Argyle. Jacko is accused of taking the life of his adoptive mother, although he insists he is innocent.

The case is reopened after many years when a new witness comes forward claiming that Jacko is actually innocent. Each member of Jacko's adoptive family then becomes a new suspect, triggering old tensions and conflicts that resurface. This story highlights the theme of a fragile family and the long-lasting impact of a lie that was never revealed.

Unlike most Agatha Christie stories, this miniseries does not focus on an iconic detective but rather on a deep family psychological drama. The slow yet intense storytelling style allows the audience to feel the emotional weight of each character. Ordeal by Innocence is suitable for viewers who enjoy mysteries with a strong family drama component.

12. 12. Murder, She Said (1961)

Murder, She Said (1961)/IMDb

Murder, She Said is a classic film adapted from Agatha Christie's novel titled 4.50 from Paddington, with Margaret Rutherford playing the role of Miss Marple. Unlike Poirot, Miss Marple is portrayed as a clever old woman who keenly observes the small details around her. The story begins when Miss Marple witnesses a murder from the window of a passing train.

Because no one believes her testimony, Miss Marple decides to investigate the case herself by disguising as a housemaid in a large residence. Her disguise uncovers many hidden clues that are not visible to the official police. Miss Marple's relaxed yet meticulous investigative style becomes the main attraction of this film compared to Poirot's more formal approach.

This film marks the beginning of a series of Miss Marple films also starring Margaret Rutherford in the 1960s. The character of Miss Marple offers a different perspective in the mystery genre as she relies on intuition and social observation rather than pure deductive logic. Murder, She Said is suitable for viewers who want to explore another side of Agatha Christie's detective universe beyond the character of Poirot.

13. Questions and Answers About Agatha Christie Adaptation Mystery Films

What mystery film adapted from Agatha Christie’s book is most suitable for beginners?

For casual viewers who are just getting to know Agatha Christie’s works, the 2017 version of Murder on the Orient Express can be a good choice because its visuals are modern and easy to understand. This film also features many famous actors, making the story feel more familiar to today’s audience. Additionally, the plot is not too complicated, making it suitable as an introduction before watching other more complex adaptations.

Do all these films feature detective Hercule Poirot?

Not all films on this list feature Poirot, as Agatha Christie also created other detective characters like Miss Marple. Some titles like Crooked House do not feature the iconic detective at all, instead relying on ordinary private detective characters. This variation of characters actually enriches Agatha Christie’s story universe and prevents it from being monotonous.

Where can Indonesian viewers watch these films?

Most classic titles like Murder on the Orient Express 1974 and Death on the Nile 1978 are usually available on paid streaming platforms or can be rented digitally. Newer titles like Kenneth Branagh’s Poirot trilogy are generally available on popular streaming services after their theatrical release ends. Viewers are advised to check the availability on their respective subscription streaming apps as broadcasting rights can change at any time.

What makes Agatha Christie’s stories still relevant today?

The main strength of Agatha Christie’s stories lies in their clever and unpredictable plot twists, even when read or watched multiple times. The characters are also built with human motifs that make it easy for the audience to empathize, even though the story is set decades ago. The combination of deductive logic and human drama is what makes his work continuously adapted across generations.

Is it necessary to read the original novel before watching the film?

Reading the original novel is not a requirement, as each film is designed to be enjoyed independently without prior story background. However, for those who have watched the film and are interested in delving deeper, reading the original novel can provide details and nuances that are sometimes not fully depicted on screen. Many fans actually enjoy both alternately to compare the storytelling methods between the book and the film.

(kpl/ibr)