The two cinematic adaptations of Agatha Christie's novels (Murder in the Orient Express and Crooked House), as well as the re-release of her detective novels, indicate that Christie is still a big star.
Christie was born in the late 19th century. Her family history can easily fill a Jane Austen novel or two. She began to write at a young age and after several delays, at the end of WWI, she found a publisher who would agree to publish her work. Her first novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, first introduced Detective Hercule Poirot, and from there her career blossomed quickly with 66 detective novels and 14 short stories.
The detective plots, deceptions and obstacles she puts before her heroes and readers are just part of Christie's magic secret. No less pleasure comes from her observation, from her rather suspicious attitude toward the human race, and from the thin smile that accompanies this somber perspective. Lightly, without delving too deeply into her characters, she seems to enjoy displaying imperfect heroes, to examine the friction that results from differences in gender, class, and origin, or against the background of the gap between personal desire and rules and social convention.
The film selection we present this month is only a small part of the many adaptations - from all over the world - made of Christie’s works. The filmmakers also took advantage of the detective plots to portray eccentric characters, to indulge in explosive human situations and demonstrate narrative elegance. The new digital copies recently released for these films are a great opportunity to enjoy these classic films. Your enjoyment is guaranteed.
