MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS

If you’ve imbibed and remember Agatha Christie’s novel of the same name, seen 1974’s Sidney Lumet’s  film version, or television’s 2001 interpretation, pass on this slice of redundancy; with the exception of exquisite cinematography (Hans Zambarloukos) and Kenneth Branagh’s (also directed) superb depiction of iconic detective “Hercule Poirot” staleness prevents this “train” from reaching its maximum speed. Fine actors (Michelle Pfeiffer Jonny Depp, Judi Dench, Penelope Cruz, give it their best shot but the attempt falls short of legitimacy; placidly fake, emotionless, one -dimensional); Josh Gad, as “McQueen”, the protector/assistant of miscreant “Ratchett” (Depp) gifts credence and empathy to the role; the only character worthy of concentration.

Style without substance and pungent predictability resulted in a lugubrious, lackadaisical experience.

TWO STARS!!

Peneflix