Over the next 92 years there would be more versions of her works than anyone might imagine.
Today, according to imdb, there are six projects in development, and three (film and TV) in production.
Between 1974 and 1982, there were four productions under the production banner of John Brabourne and Richard Goodwin – Murder on the Orient Express (1974), Death on the Nile (1978), The Mirror Crack’d (1980), Evil Under the Sun (1982), which are a cut above.
Peopled with wonderful casts, two had Peter Ustinov as Hercule Poirot, one Angela Lansbury as Miss Marple (she also appeared in Death on the Nile), and the earliest Albert Finney in the role of Poirot.
Kino will be releasing three on September 1. Murder on the Orient Express being the sole missing title.
All four have been previously released via the Netherlands in a boxed set, priced at $135, so one might presume that Orient Express will find it’s way domestically via Kino.
Thus far, I’ve only had a chance to sample one, Death on the Nile, and have come away extremely pleased with Canal’s master.
Beautiful color, a wonderfully resolved image, superb black levels. I look forward to reporting on the other two, but this one shines, and is a huge upgrade from the old DVD.
For those unaware, the cast of suspects:
Jane Birkin, Bette Davis, Jon Finch, George Kennedy, Simon Corkindale, Maggie Smith, Lois Chiles, Mia Farrow, Olivia Hussey, Angela Lansbury, David Niven and Jack Warden.
Is Death on the Nile great filmmaking?
It’s nicely entertaining.
If you’re seeking something more modern, and with a bit larger budget, Kenneth Branagh’s new production, due shortly, may fill the bill, with the director as Poirot, following up his 2017 Murder on the Orient Express.
But for the late 1970s to early ’80s, it’s wonderful seeing some of our favorite actors do their stuff.
Image – 5
Audio – 5
Pass / Fail – Pass
Upgrade from DVD – Yes
Recommended.
RAH
Robert has been known in the film industry for his unmatched skill and passion in film preservation. Growing up around photography, his first home theater experience began at age ten with 16mm. Years later he was running 35 and 70mm at home.
His restoration projects have breathed new life into classic films like Lawrence of Arabia, Vertigo, My Fair Lady, Spartacus, and The Godfather series. Beyond his restoration work, he has also shared his expertise through publications, contributing to the academic discourse on film restoration. The Academy Film Archive houses the Robert A. Harris Collection, a testament to his significant contributions to film preservation.
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