This episode of Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot has the master sleuth solving a murder that had gone unsolved in the past. But, not through any fault of his own, as Poirot explains to Captain Hastings and Miss Lemon. The film then shows the first murder in a flashback story.
The intrigue in this one moves between England and Argentina - or, "The Argentine" as it was called in England at the time. And that was during the years of heavy unrest and revolution in that South American country. Other things are at play here as well. Government fraud and corruption, swindles, larceny and other crooked dealings are in the mix. But in the end, Poirot catches the culprit.
Inspector Japp is missing from this episode, but Captain Hastings and Miss Lemon bring their light touches and camaraderie to Poirot's pursuits. A bit more intriguing than most, this film also is somewhat beguiling for the two locations thousands of miles apart. David Suchet shines once again as the super sleuth, Hercule Poirot.
Here are some favorite light lines from the film.
Captain Hastings, "Is there anything in the English cuisine that you like Poirot?" Hercule Poirot, "The English, they do not have a cuisine, my friend. They have only the food." Captain Hastings, "Oh, that's a little bit harsh." Hercule Poirot, "Like the meat overcooked. The vegetables too soft. The cheese inedible. And the day the English create their own wines is the day I return home to Belgium."
Captain Hastings, "An Italian with a French restaurant in South America?"
Miss Lemon, "I don't like you going to this restaurant, Mr. Poirot. It could be dangerous." Hercule Poirot, "Ah, but when Poirot himself is involved, he too is dangerous, Miss Lemon."