Sometimes, as Netflix patrons, we discover a hidden gem. One of my latest discoveries is a little mystery called Agatha and the Truth of Murder.
Agatha and the Truth of Murder (2019) Review
In 1926, Agatha Christie (Ruth Bradley) disappeared for 11 days. During this time, her life was in shambles. Agatha not only faced writer’s block but also experienced a personal crisis when her husband demanded a divorce. However, her life changed when Mabel (Pippa Haywood) walked into her study.
Mabel arrives with a riddle. Her best friend and soul mate died several years ago, and no one but Mabel believes it to be murder. At first, Agatha is put off by this stranger, but eventually, struggling with her new novel, she is intrigued. Together, the pair set up an elaborate plan to bring together their suspects and entrap a murderer! It’s a fun, fictionalized account for those who love a good Agatha Christie adaptation.
Needless to say, as a fan of Christie mysteries, I was thrilled to see this on the streaming service. Given how popular original Christie adaptations are on streaming services like Amazon or Acorn TV, Agatha and the Truth of Murder, a movie about the author of those macabre stories, is a fun find.
RELATED | Ordeal by Innocence – Watch A Quality Agatha Christie Adaptation
What’s even more interesting is that Agatha did indeed disappear for 11 days in 1926. Still, to this day, no one knows why she did or where she was. Furthermore, this film even specifies (in the end credits) that this isn’t endorsed by the author’s official branding.
Appropriately, like its titular author’s profession, these eleven days remain in shadowed mystery. That all being said, the real-life mystery certainly makes for a good premise for a fictional movie.
Though Agatha and the Truth of Murder isn’t extremely dynamic, it is good. The pace is slow, and the story isn’t quite as interesting as I’d anticipated.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
Overall, it’s a well-produced film. It’s one of those period dramas I suspect will continue with little fanfare. The story also leaves us with bittersweet emotions just because of her heartbreak. Still, in all other respects, there’s the promise of good things. The cast is solid, and the costumes are pretty, but it’s still startling to see Agatha go from color and soft hairstyles to drab and unassuming.
Overall, for those who admire period drama or any of the Agatha Christie adaptations, this is a must-see. It’s an absorbing story (kind of in the way a good game of Clue is). Plus, its script offers a tiny window into the life of Agatha Christie, even if it does take fictional liberties. I like to think the British mystery maven would approve.
Content Note: Apart from some “tense” moments, this drama is appropriate for the interested viewer. It is TV-14.
Where to Watch (Updated): Agatha and the Truth of Murder is currently available on PBS Masterpiece and Hoopla. It can also be rented or bought digitally.
Editorial Note: This article is from our contributor archives and has been lightly edited and updated by us. Since 2021, The Silver Petticoat Review has been exclusively written by Amber & Autumn Topping. See About Us.
