After being known for directing a string of Shakespeare films, Kenneth Branagh has diversified lately. First, he dabbled in superheroes with Marvel Studio’s “Thor.” Next, he tried his hand at a spy thriller with “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit.” Most recently, he tackled the live-action remake of the Disney classic “Cinderella.” Needless to say, it should come as no surprise that the actor/director has a big budget, all-star adaptation of Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” lined up next.
In the first trailer, viewers finally get to see Branagh’s take on the Christie novel, and it’s definitely a beautiful film. “Murder on the Orient Express” tells the story of Detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates, well, a murder on the Orient Express. The new movie is a departure from the source material, and 1974 Academy Award nominated film, with Poirot seen as a much more active man. No longer an aging detective who uses his intelligence as his primary way to solve crimes, Branagh’s Poirot is a much more physical character, not afraid to punch a guy if needed.
Branagh also cracked open the Rolodex and pulled some favors to land the amazing cast for the film. Tom Bateman, Lucy Boynton, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench, Willem Dafoe, Johnny Depp, Josh Gad, Michele Pfeiffer, and Daisy Ridley also star in the mystery film.
“Murder on the Orient Express” opens on November 10th.
