Branagh's conception of Poirot is pure magic and worth watching no matter what the vehicle. This one may be a little weak but it has its moments. For example it does a wonderful job making its Venetian location appropriately spooky. And then there's the unflinching way Branagh sets up the confrontation between spiritualists and his detective.
Does it all pay off? Well, it's not as satisfying as you would think given our need to confront reality. And the resolution is a bit complex and difficult to follow, but it does make sense and, what's most important, Poirot retains his principles intact.
Does it all pay off? Well, it's not as satisfying as you would think given our need to confront reality. And the resolution is a bit complex and difficult to follow, but it does make sense and, what's most important, Poirot retains his principles intact.