A Big Chuck Movie Review: “Murder on the Orient Express” (1974; VIDEO)

This is a classy classic

One of the best, if not the best, movie made from an Agatha Christie Hercule Poirot novel.  There has always been something mysterious about the legendary Orient Express, a luxury train which crosses Eastern Europe.

Clearly, the reason this movie works so beautifully is the superb cast of some of Hollywood's most glamorous and famous faces.  Alas, so many of them are now gone including Richard Widmark, Sir John Geilgud, Anthony Perkins, Ingrid Bergman and others.  Still, many others are alive today including the great Lauren Bacall, Sean Connery and Albert Finney.  With a backdrop of some of the most lush scenery ever filmed (from Paris to Istanbul) this movie clicks on all levels with each passing mile of railroad track.

And who "did the deed?" on the train?  It is a sublime mystery as to who killed Mr. Ratchett (Widmark) but remember..he was stabbed twelve times.  That is important.  This is grand fun and wonderful film making   The acting is unusually sharp (Bergman won an Oscar, and Albert Finney was nominated for one for his portrayal of Poirot), the sets are elaborate (the train is an exact replica of the original Express) and the costumes are stunning.

Next yeqar, this famous film celebrates the 40th anniversary of its original release.

Find it.  Rent it.  Watch it.  I give "Murder on the Orient Express" four meatballs, my highest rating!