REVIEW: A Haunting in Venice (2023 Film) - Starring Kenneth Branagh

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Kenneth Branagh's 2023 film, "A Haunting in Venice," serves as a sophisticated directorial and production endeavor, where he reprises the role of Hercule Poirot following the 2022 release "Death on the Nile." Inspired loosely by Agatha Christie's "Hallowe'en Party," this installment ventures into unexplored territory, presenting a darker and spookier ambiance.

Set against the backdrop of 1947, the narrative unfolds with Poirot in retirement in Venice. The aging detective becomes entangled in an enigmatic Halloween soirée at the lavish residence of opera singer Rowena Drake (Kelly Reilly). The story weaves a complex tale intertwining wartime trauma, paranormal phenomena, and a perplexing murder that disrupts the Halloween festivities.

Branagh leads an ensemble cast, including Kyle Allen, Camille Cottin, Jamie Dornan, Tina Fey, and others. While their performances contribute to the film's allure, some actors are unfortunately underutilized, offering a nuanced critique within an otherwise outstanding ensemble.

Cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos, known for his expertise, skillfully crafts the visual tapestry of "A Haunting in Venice." He captures the allure of the city and the palpable haunting atmosphere within the palazzo's twisting walls. The cinematography dances between elegance and eeriness, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

The plot revolves around mystery writer Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey) convincing Poirot to attend a Halloween party and séance at Rowena Drake's palazzo to expose the medium Joyce Reynolds (Michelle Yeoh) as a fraud. The film expertly blends classic whodunit elements with a nuanced infusion of horror, as Poirot navigates the haunted palazzo, revealing layers of supernatural occurrences, wartime trauma, and psychological unraveling.

Despite its strengths, the film struggles in character development, leaving some ensemble members overshadowed by the central mystery. The atmospheric narrative comes at the expense of fully exploring certain characters' backgrounds and motivations. The film misses an opportunity to delve deeper into the nature of spiritualist mediums and the physical séance, potentially benefiting from expert consultation in these aspects.

Where the film excels is in its empathetic portrayal of post-war grief. Characters grapple with haunting memories, and the psychological toll of wartime experiences adds emotional depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a mere murder mystery to a poignant exploration of the human psyche after conflict.

In conclusion, "A Haunting in Venice" is a commendable addition to the Poirot series. While it may not surpass its predecessor, "Death on the Nile," the film explores a darker and more complex side of the iconic detective. With skillful cinematography, a compelling fusion of genres, and a notable cast, despite some underutilization, the movie secures its place as a noteworthy installment in Hercule Poirot's cinematic universe. I give "A Haunting in Venice" a respectable 8 out of 10.

Pre-order on Blu-ray now at https://amzn.to/46pixLo

Watch at Apple TV at https://apple.co/3MRv3MA

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