Ep 3. Murder On the Orient Express

Murder On the Orient Express is the third episode of the twelfth season of the British television series, Poirot. The episode is based on the 1934 novel of the same name by Agatha Christie. It premiered on British television in November 2010.

Set in the 1930s, the episode follows the famous Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, as he boards the luxurious Orient Express train, bound for Calais. However, his journey is soon interrupted when an American businessman named Samuel Ratchett is murdered on board the train. Poirot is called upon to investigate the murder and solve the mystery of who is responsible.

As Poirot begins his investigation, he quickly realizes that all of the passengers on the train have links to the victim, and each one has a motive for wanting him dead. The suspects include a wealthy widow, a Russian princess, an Italian-American car salesman, a British army colonel, a Hungarian spy, and many others. Poirot must use all of his deductive skills to uncover the truth and identify the killer.

The episode is filled with tense moments, as Poirot races against time to catch the murderer before the train reaches its destination. The claustrophobic setting of the train only adds to the tension, as the suspects are trapped on board with the detective and the other passengers. The episode is well-paced, with plenty of clues and red herrings to keep the viewer guessing until the very end.

David Suchet gives another outstanding performance as Hercule Poirot, bringing the character to life with his trademark charm and wit. The supporting cast is also excellent, with each actor giving a nuanced and layered performance. The episode features some stunning cinematography, particularly in the scenes set outside the train.

Overall, Murder On the Orient Express is a gripping and suspenseful episode of Poirot, which does justice to the original novel. It is a must-watch for fans of the series and Agatha Christie's work, and a great introduction to the world of Poirot for those who are new to the character. The episode is a fitting tribute to one of Christie's most famous and beloved stories, and a testament to the enduring popularity of her work.