Review - MURDER IN THREE ACTS (1986)
SPOILERS AHEAD!
The film is based on Christie's novel, THREE ACT TRAGEDY, written in 1934. The plot device is a precursor to her more famous THE A B C MURDERS, written two years later. In a sense the first book is a "dress rehearsal" for the more elaborate later one, just as those very words tip Poirot off to the nature of the murders and the character of the murderer he is seeking.
MURDER IN THREE ACTS is one of three made for television Poirot mysteries starring Peter Ustinov. He also appeared in three theatrically released films playing the famous detective.
Unfortunately, for viewers, the casting gives away the identity of the murderer. When you cast a murder mystery with one Hollywood star at the center, you can be pretty certain that character is going to be the murderer. Even with a group of stars in such a film, the highest paid star will most usually turn out to be the villain. Tony Curtis stars as a "retired" actor. In another of the three made for tv Poirots, Faye Dunaway plays an actress. In both instances their characters turn out to be the guilty ones.
MURDER IN THREE ACTS is set for the most part in Acapulco. The scenery and sets are gorgeous and a great feast for the eyes. Curtis, whose talent is limited, does a decent job. The other performers are merely adequate. At the center of course, is Ustinov's impeccably charming sleuth. Beautiful to look at, but a let down to those who know the plotting of A B C.
SPOILERS AHEAD!
The film is based on Christie's novel, THREE ACT TRAGEDY, written in 1934. The plot device is a precursor to her more famous THE A B C MURDERS, written two years later. In a sense the first book is a "dress rehearsal" for the more elaborate later one, just as those very words tip Poirot off to the nature of the murders and the character of the murderer he is seeking.
MURDER IN THREE ACTS is one of three made for television Poirot mysteries starring Peter Ustinov. He also appeared in three theatrically released films playing the famous detective.
Unfortunately, for viewers, the casting gives away the identity of the murderer. When you cast a murder mystery with one Hollywood star at the center, you can be pretty certain that character is going to be the murderer. Even with a group of stars in such a film, the highest paid star will most usually turn out to be the villain. Tony Curtis stars as a "retired" actor. In another of the three made for tv Poirots, Faye Dunaway plays an actress. In both instances their characters turn out to be the guilty ones.
MURDER IN THREE ACTS is set for the most part in Acapulco. The scenery and sets are gorgeous and a great feast for the eyes. Curtis, whose talent is limited, does a decent job. The other performers are merely adequate. At the center of course, is Ustinov's impeccably charming sleuth. Beautiful to look at, but a let down to those who know the plotting of A B C.