Murder on the Orient Express Blu-ray Review

"Murder on the Orient Express," presented on Blu-ray by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 2.39:1. Captured on 65mm and finalized with a 4K Digital Intermediate (DI), this adaptation is visually stunning. The clarity of the image allows viewers to fully appreciate the meticulous production design and period detailing, from the intricate stitching on costumes to the lavish interiors of the opulent Orient Express. Colors transition seamlessly from the ochre and dusty yellows of Jerusalem to the cold blue and gray hues of a snowy winter, maintaining vividness throughout. Black levels are well-maintained, ensuring snow-covered mountains do not appear washed out, nor do darker scenes lose detail.

Despite its visual splendor, certain CGI elements disrupt the viewing experience at times. Some scenes, particularly those involving establishing shots or the train's journey, feel somewhat artificial compared to the otherwise pristine image quality. Nevertheless, the film's impeccable production design and rich, varied palette more than compensate for these minor distractions. Shadows and contrasts are expertly handled, enhancing the already exquisite fine details visible in every frame.

Overall, "Murder on the Orient Express" is a visual feast, offering a consistently gorgeous presentation that significantly elevates the viewing experience. The high-definition transfer's exceptional attention to detail and color accuracy make this Blu-ray a must-see, particularly for those unacquainted with previous iterations of the story.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track for "Murder on the Orient Express" offers an exceptionally immersive and meticulously crafted auditory experience. The audio presentation maximizes the dynamic soundscape with an array of sound effects permeating the side and rear channels, elevating the auditory ambiance. Particularly noteworthy is the low-frequency effects (LFE) channel that effectively conveys the hum and chug of the train, enriching the realism as it traverses expansive landscapes. Within the train's constricted environment, the sound design is executed with precision, incorporating nuanced sounds like clinking glasses and muffled dialogues, which enhance the storytelling without being intrusive.

Dialogue clarity is generally excellent, though Kenneth Branagh’s affected French accent as Poirot occasionally necessitates the use of subtitles for complete comprehension. Patrick Doyle’s score, while not as revered as Richard Rodney Bennett's from the 1974 adaptation, resonates powerfully through the surround channels, enhancing both the dramatic and quieter moments of the film. The opening hustle and bustle, enriched with ambient crowd sounds, set a perfect tonal pitch, transitioning seamlessly when action sequences call for more pronounced audio effects, such as during the avalanche scene. This moment, although visually CGI-dependent, gains substantial auditory excitement due to proficient surround activity.

Moreover, the ambient environmental sounds, from the intermittent creaks to pops and subtle scene-specific tones playing through various speakers, truly engross the audience. The audio mix balances these elements with poise, ensuring levels remain consistent throughout. The result is a cinematic experience where technical excellence in sound design complements the intricate visual storytelling, pulling viewers deeper into Agatha Christie's classic narrative.

The Blu-ray extras for "Murder on the Orient Express" deliver an engaging blend of insightful content and behind-the-scenes perspectives. Featuring a mix of interviews with Agatha Christie's descendants, behind-the-scenes footage, and focused discussions on various production elements, these extras provide a well-rounded view into the film's creation. Highlights include a comprehensive commentary track by director/star Kenneth Branagh and screenwriter Michael Green, exploring their adaptation choices, and an alternate opening sequence among the deleted scenes. While some features tread familiar EPK territory, they nevertheless offer valuable details about the filmmaking process.

Extras included in this disc:

• Agatha Christie: An Intimate Portrait: Interviews with Christie's family and audio recordings of Christie herself.
• Let's Talk About Hercule Poirot: Examination of Poirot’s character design and adaptations.
• Unusual Suspects: Part One: Brief featurette on casting decisions.
• Unusual Suspects: Part Two
• Unusual Suspects: Part Three
• The Art of Murder: Behind-the-scenes insights into production design and filming challenges.
• All Aboard: Filming Murder on the Orient Express: Detailed look at the decision to shoot in 65mm.
• Music of Murder: Focus on composer Patrick Doyle's contributions.
• Deleted Scenes: Optional commentary by Branagh and Green featuring an alternate opening.
• Audio Commentary by Kenneth Branagh and Michael Green
• Theatrical Trailers
• Gallery

Kenneth Branagh’s 2017 adaptation of Agatha Christie’s "Murder on the Orient Express" treads a fine line between reverence and bold reimagining. Like clockwork, Branagh's Hercule Poirot is meticulously crafted, presenting a more assertive and physically capable portrayal than previous iterations. However, this interpretation inevitably invites comparisons with iconic portrayals by David Suchet, Albert Finney, and Peter Ustinov, with Branagh's slightly comedic and baroque take on Poirot’s mustache offering a departure from tradition. The film lands in a tough spot: purists may find it lacking in substance compared to the beloved original, while newcomers could be enchanted by its high production values and engaging narrative.

One standout characteristic of this version is its ambitious visual flair. Branagh doesn't shy from infusing the film with grandiose direction, including long tracking shots and overhead sequences that provide a fresh cinematic perspective to the confined environment of the train. Noteworthy is the impressive introduction sequence and visually engaging outdoor snowbound interrogation scenes, which aim to reinvigorate the setting. The all-star cast—featuring Dame Judi Dench, Michelle Pfeiffer, Johnny Depp, and Josh Gad—delivers commendable performances even if some, including Olivia Colman's Hildegarde Schmidt, feel underutilized due to Branagh's apparent inclination to foreground his take on Poirot.

The opening segment set in Jerusalem, while adding depth to Poirot’s character, also exemplifies Branagh’s tendency to prioritize character development over plot tautness, sometimes at the ensemble’s expense. Scenes with Michelle Pfeiffer and Johnny Depp are particularly effective, yet others feel overshadowed, reducing their impact on the intricate whodunit tale. The plot remains largely faithful to Christie’s ingenious narrative but introduces minor personal embellishments that may not resonate with all viewers. Overall, Branagh’s "Murder on the Orient Express" offers a visually captivating and moderately compelling adaptation that honors its source while seeking to establish its own identity in the shadow of its predecessors.

Kenneth Branagh's "Murder on the Orient Express" uniquely revitalizes Agatha Christie's classic tale with his energetic direction and lush flavor. Branagh’s portrayal of the iconic detective Hercule Poirot introduces idiosyncratic elements that may polarize die-hard fans of the 1974 version or Christie's original work. Nonetheless, the sumptuous production design and intricate staging provide a visually stunning experience, making it an engaging watch for newcomers and casual viewers alike. The film's significant box office success indicates its broad appeal and potential for future adaptations.

The Blu-ray release of "Murder on the Orient Express" excels in delivering a high-caliber technical experience. The video transfer is immaculate, preserving the film’s captivating visuals with exceptional clarity and vibrant color fidelity. The audio mix is equally impressive, immersing viewers with a dynamic and well-balanced sonic landscape. Accompanying the main feature is an array of insightful bonus features, offering deeper insights into the production process and enriching the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, if you're a longtime fan of previous adaptations, you may find yourself comparing Branagh's take to earlier versions. On the other hand, those new to the story will likely find it intriguing and visually arresting. Despite any reservations experienced by seasoned fans, the superior technical merits of this Blu-ray release, along with its enjoyable supplemental content, make it highly recommended.