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Monthly Screenings

Agatha Christie: A Tribute

The two cinematic adaptations of Agatha Christie's novels (Murder in the Orient Express and Crooked House), as well as the re-release of her detective novels, indicate that Christie is still a big star.

Christie was born in the late 19th century. Her family history can easily fill a Jane Austen novel or two. She began to write at a young age and after several delays, at the end of WWI, she found a publisher who would agree to publish her work. Her first novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, first introduced Detective Hercule Poirot, and from there her career blossomed quickly with 66 detective novels and 14 short stories.

The detective plots, deceptions and obstacles she puts before her heroes and readers are just part of Christie's magic secret. No less pleasure comes from her observation, from her rather suspicious attitude toward the human race, and from the thin smile that accompanies this somber perspective. Lightly, without delving too deeply into her characters, she seems to enjoy displaying imperfect heroes, to examine the friction that results from differences in gender, class, and origin, or against the background of the gap between personal desire and rules and social convention.

The film selection we present this month is only a small part of the many adaptations - from all over the world - made of Christie’s works. The filmmakers also took advantage of the detective plots to portray eccentric characters, to indulge in explosive human situations and demonstrate narrative elegance. The new digital copies recently released for these films are a great opportunity to enjoy these classic films. Your enjoyment is guaranteed.

Members Event

Open to Cinematheque  and Institut français de Jérusalem – antenne Romain Gary  members only. Screening courtesy of TV5MONDE and The Institut français de Jérusalem – antenne Romain Gary  

Les Petits Meurtres d’Agatha Christie: Le Cheval pâle

Dir.: Olivier Panchot
| 90 minutes

A French television series that brings to the screen new adaptations of beloved Agatha Christie stories, but with a French flare. In Le Cheval pâle, several people mysteriously die by what appears to be witchcraft. Skeptic detective Swan Laurence and curious journalist Alice Avril begin to investigate. 

Crooked House

Dir.: Gilles Paquet-Brenner
| 115 minutes

When a wealthy and ruthless tycoon dies under suspicious circumstances, family friend detective Charles Hayward tries to uncover who, from a long list of friends and family, wanted to see him dead.

Murder on the Orient Express

Dir.: Kenneth Branagh
| 114 minutes

When a dubious businessman is murdered on a luxury train crossing Europe in the mid-1930s, celebrated detective Hercule Poirot is recruited to solve the case. Based on Agatha Christie’s famous detective novel, the film is lit with a glittering line of stars and a striking periodical design. 

Murder on the Orient Express

Dir.: Sidney Lumet
| 128 minutes

The Orient Express is halted by an avalanche. This is a good opportunity for detective Hercule Poirot to find out who, from a host of potential killers, killed the hated American millionaire Ratchett. A brilliant adaptation of the Christie classic.

Death on the Nile

Dir.: John Guillermin
| 140 minutes

A luxury cruise on the Nile becomes the scene of multiple deaths. The mystery falls into the hands of detective Hercule Poirot. A stylistic adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel with A-Listers, majestic cinematography, music by the great Nino Rota, and a brilliant script. 

The Mirror Crack’d

Dir.: Guy Hamilton
| 105 minutes

A picturesque English village is the set for an American movie that will instigate its leading actress’ comeback. But when a series of murders irrupt the serene soundings, an inspector is brought in. In tow is his aunt – Miss Marple. 

Evil Under the Sun

Dir.: Guy Hamilton
| 117 minutes

Hercule Poirot arrives to an exclusive resort hotel frequented by the rich and famous to investigate a murder, where all the guests are suspects.