Murder on the Orient Express (1974)

Overview
"Murder on the Orient Express" is a 1974 British secret movie that was directed by Sidney Lumet. The movie was based upon the 1934 book of the same name by famous English author Agatha Christie. The movie captures the story of the popular investigator, Hercule Poirot, as he tries to solve a murder case on a train journey through Europe.

Plot
The film begins with the elegant Orient Express train setting off on its journey from Istanbul to Calais. Amongst the travelers is Hercule Poirot (Albert Finney), the world famous Belgian investigator. Early on, Poirot declines a deal to investigate a case of expected kidnapping threats against American business owner, Mr. Ratchett (Richard Widmark). Mostly dismissive of Ratchett's issues, Poirot rather focuses on enjoying his journey. Nevertheless, the following morning, Ratchett is discovered dead in his compartment, stabbed several times.

Examination
Upon discovery of the murder, Poirot is right away drawn into a twist-filled investigation on the train, which has actually been stalled by an avalanche. Through his queries, Poirot reveals that Ratchett was actually a gangster called Cassetti who had previously managed the kidnapping and murder of Daisy Armstrong, a young, wealthy American girl. It turns out this unnerving discovery includes everyone on the train, as they all have some connections to the Armstrong household, leading them to be potential suspects.

Resolution
Every passenger goes through Poirot's examination. He recognizes inconsistencies, timelines, and seemingly minor information, piecing together a puzzle more elaborate than he initially anticipated. Ultimately, Poirot presents his conclusion in two theories. The first depicts a murderer boarding the train at a stop and escaping likewise, while the 2nd theory includes all the travelers in dedicating the murder, basically getting their revenge on Cassetti for the Armstrong case.

In the final twist, Poirot proposes that justice has actually been served, choosing not to divulge the real nature of the murder to the cops. The train resumes its journey, leaving the audience in reflection over moral obscurity and the complex interplay of justice and revenge.

Reception
"Murder on the Orient Express" boasts an excellent ensemble cast, consisting of Sean Connery, Lauren Bacall, and Ingrid Bergman, who won an Oscar for her function. The movie masterfully immerses audiences in the signature Agatha Christie atmosphere of mystery, thriller, and intense character analysis.

Albert Finney's portrayal of Hercule Poirot was significantly appreciated, making him an Academy Award election for Best Actor. The film was also profoundly recognized for its artistic direction, brilliant movie script and was total extremely regarded by critics and audiences alike. It stays among the most quintessential adaptations of an Agatha Christie novel, encapsulating and preserving the suspenseful beauty of classic whodunits.

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