Masterpiece Season 40 Episode 17 David Suchet on the Orient Express

David Suchet, best known for his portrayal of the iconic detective Hercule Poirot, takes viewers on a journey through the history and glamour of the Orient Express in this special episode of Masterpiece. From its inception in the late 19th century to its modern-day revival, the Orient Express represents a bygone era of luxury and adventure that captivates the imagination.

Suchet begins his exploration of the Orient Express by delving into its early history, highlighting the train's role in expanding tourism and trade in Europe. He then takes viewers on a behind-the-scenes tour of an Orient Express sleeper carriage, showcasing the intricate details and luxurious amenities that make the train so special. Suchet even tries his hand at making a bed in the carriage, demonstrating the challenges faced by the train's attentive staff.

But the Orient Express is not just a train; it is a symbol of an era of cultural exchange and artistic expression. Suchet meets with a group of musicians who specialize in performing the music of the era, including traditional European folk songs and Middle Eastern melodies that reflect the train's route. We learn how the train and its passengers inspired artists such as Agatha Christie, who set her famous murder mystery on board the train, and impressionist painter Claude Monet, who painted several landscapes of the scenery along the Orient Express's route.

Suchet also speaks with some of the passengers on board the train, including a couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary who have taken the Orient Express five times, and a group of young women enjoying a girls' trip. Each has their own reason for choosing the Orient Express, but all share a love for the train and the memories it creates.

Throughout his journey, Suchet brings to life the stories and characters that have made the Orient Express an enduring symbol of luxury travel. From the train's famous rolling stocks, to its more recent reincarnation as an exclusive tourist attraction, to the cultural impact it has had over the years, David Suchet on the Orient Express is an engaging look at one of the world's most iconic trains.