I'm often grateful for my lousy memory. I read Agatha Christie's novel of this awesome sleuth-story, but completely forget about the denouement. I only remember it was one of her best works. And since I also hadn't yet seen a previous film/TV-adaptation of this book, it almost felt like I was in for a total surprise.
The plot of "A Murder is Announced" is nearly flawless. It's the perfect whodunit, as far as I'm concerned. What starts as a seemingly banal and easily solvable case of attempted murder and suicide, gradually turns into a complex mystery in which every supportive character is a suspect and where eventually more and more murders must be committed to safeguard the culprit's identity. Miss Marple is initially just a spectator, subtle whispering hints into the ears of police constable Craddock, but near the end it also becomes very personal for her. Geraldine McEwan, a truly great actress, depicts the oppressed anger and forced dignity with great class.
The plot of "A Murder is Announced" is nearly flawless. It's the perfect whodunit, as far as I'm concerned. What starts as a seemingly banal and easily solvable case of attempted murder and suicide, gradually turns into a complex mystery in which every supportive character is a suspect and where eventually more and more murders must be committed to safeguard the culprit's identity. Miss Marple is initially just a spectator, subtle whispering hints into the ears of police constable Craddock, but near the end it also becomes very personal for her. Geraldine McEwan, a truly great actress, depicts the oppressed anger and forced dignity with great class.