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Appointment with Death UKDate!

wolfbridge 25 Nov 09 at 9:21 p.m. GMT

so finally it airs in the UK - Boxing Day (26th of December) 2009.

9pm

Have fun!

(based on early ITV Schedules, changes might come as ITV only gives 2 weeks in advance schedules)

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MissQuin 31 Jul 10 at 2:02 p.m. GMT

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Appointment with death adapt spoilers!!!

I think the Nun was a slave trader. Because they said she's done it before. Ive no idea why she was seen praying etc, it was just misleading. No there wasn't a single nun in the book. What is with all the evil nuns they keep adding? Will they be added wicked Monks soon? Will Rasputin make a cameo appearance from beyond the grave? They may have problems of ways of killing him off!! Coshing, then Poisoning and then drowning just might do the trick.

Why was so much grief piled onto poor Ginny? Given up as a baby Mistreated as a child, the man she fancied then turned out to be her father. Then she was nearly sold into slavery. Then her mother and father were murderers!!

apriltaylor 26 Jul 10 at 5:56 a.m. GMT

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Just finished watching "Appointment With Death".   I have not read the book (or if I did it was so many years ago I've completely forgotten!), so I enjoyed it more than many people seemed to. 

I had a question about the Polish nun however.  What she really a slave-trader?  Poirot mentioned that Celia Westholme had been taken care of by nuns after the birth (and abandonment) of her daughter Jinny.  So I wondered if perhaps the Polish nun had been asked by Celia Westholme and Dr. Gerard (her birth parents) to abduct her to get her away from the Boynton clan, and to do it in the style of a slave-trade abduction so it might seem more plausible that she had really been abducted and disappeared?

I should probably watch it again, but those were my initial thoughts.

Maja_K 25 Jul 10 at 1:17 p.m. GMT

I watched Appointment With Death yesterday. It makes me so sad to have to say I disliked a Poirot episode. I loved Suchet's performance and the scenery, liked the music (although it may have been too obtrusive), but I hated the changes made to the plot. The slave-trading nun subplot makes me cringe, and the fact that she was Polish makes me especially uncomfortable. There was no reason to give her a different ethnicity than the other characters, so I wonder if that was a reflection of the screenplay author's prejudices. Mrs Boynton was so much more interesting as a psychological tyrant than as a physical abuser. But, most importantly, the best part of an Agatha Christie novel is the fact that the reader gets a chance to see all the clues and to attempt to solve the mystery himself/herself. Then, when the detective explains everything at the end, the reader will either feel the satisfaction of having guessed or, more often, think "It was right in front of my nose and I didn't see it!" The screenplay writer invented a new, complicated plot, but didn't pay much attention to clues. At the end, when Poirot gave the solution, I wondered how in the world he knew all that. I really, really hope that they treated "Murder on the Orient Express" differently.

liz3280 22 Apr 10 at 9:43 p.m. GMT

I have always loved David Suchet as Poirot and I was not disapointed with him in Appointment With Death but I was horrified by everything else about it, why they even kept the title I dont know.  Whoever was in charge of that project I hope they never get their hands on Curtain that would be a true crime.

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Jan 10 at 4:32 p.m. GMT

I thought the Sinister heaviness added something but there again although Three-Act Tragedy isn't one of my least favourite books I did think it was a bit dull (I am so sorry I couldn't think of a nicer word) in places, I don't remember much about the Marple version of Ordeal by Innocense and haven't read it yet.

I agree a b cust, Matthew or David should be the ones to put a stop to the Ruination of ACs work but they probably just want to take the Money to finance something they want to do more, They probably have both lost interest in Poirot, That's what it feels like sometimes, well to me anyway.

a_b_cust 17 Jan 10 at 6:58 p.m. GMT

But practically the produceres have to think in terms of programming, not just content. Many producers these days have no original ideas, or sense of integrity, but have to do whatever sells the item. They play to the majority. Thats is the curse of capitalism and sky telly. My guess is they would view officionados like urselves as purist nuisances and as mentioned before, will just be filed in the 'loony' bin- like dr who nerds.  i work in the profession and i know how it works. But i am surprised at the fact that the aspcts that made the programme so successful origianlly have been deemed old fashioned. I think there have been too many committee meetings now POIROT is big business. It just needs that one person there to say -hang on chaps, need to stop having ideas now - lets stick with the orginal. That should be Matthew a.c's nephew, or David S, but - it seems like they have got caught up in it too. Who knows - anyway glad to see 3 act tragedy  remain faithful even if still given that weird sinister heaviness. leaves me feeling depressed rather than refreshed. Its all a bit intense. BTW ust wtched the marple ordeal by innocence. hands up who thinks the wheelchair character couldnt be killed for politicallty correct reasons.

go_leafs_nation 11 Jan 10 at 5:15 p.m. GMT

Real life isn't as simple as all that. But anyhow, I think the producers have got SOMETHING through their thick skulls already- the first two adaptations have been excellent, and from the looks of the remaining two, they will be excellent as well.

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Jan 10 at 4:28 p.m. GMT

That is true Katherine but if a b mentioned all the things that have irked us all and where he thinks they are going wrong we might get proper explainations.

Katherine 11 Jan 10 at 3:04 p.m. GMT

It's a sweet idea, Tommy, but I imagine anyone writing to the producers offering their services as a "consultant", would have their letter filed immediately in the wastepaper bin...

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Jan 10 at 1:43 p.m. GMT

Surely it is, just get some paper and a pen or Typewriter and write a letter, if you are afraild of them recognising you used a Non de plume like Ronnie Barker used the name Gerald Wiley.

a_b_cust 11 Jan 10 at 12:05 a.m. GMT

Ah - if only it were that easy. 

Tommy_A_Jones 08 Jan 10 at 1:48 p.m. GMT

a b cust, you aren't the first person to suggest that since ACs Daughter died the Adaptations haven't been as good, go_leafs has said the same thing before you afew times.

I can't see why you say it is undedrstandable that her Grandson has been turning AC into a 'Cash Cow', I would have thought he should have the Moral Fibre to resist all attempts to ruin his Grandmothers work

Were you a Famous Actor? I doubt it or else you would still be one, Why don't you offer your servcices as a Consultant if you think you can do better than the Producers (You couldn't make some Adaptations any worse could you) and you would be putting your Money where yourt mouth is in the same sort of way that you said couldn't or wouldn't give examples of young people who can't do Shakespeare. 

ampman 08 Jan 10 at 8:36 a.m. GMT

I agree with the comments of the pevious writers. I watched Suchet'e Poirot on TV before reading the books and was amazed at the difference in Poirot's appearance and character. It's not the forst time that a star with money in a film has made changes to suit their own agenda. One of the worst examples is Robert Redford in The Horse Whisperer.

a_b_cust 07 Jan 10 at 8:11 p.m. GMT

I actually used to be an acotr and david suchet always hd the reputation of being a brilliant craftsman, but never quite knew his own political limitations. i remember him announcinng that 'no young people can do shakespeare' in the press but when asked to evidence this he couldnt - it was just a feeling he got! Face it, hes an ego which makes his performances brilliant, but i think he should trust that others know their jobs -  or at least get someone on noard who knows about A.c. No doubt they just think we are nerdy purists - but i know im not. Thats just an excuse. im an incredibly able polymath and could sho  but just happen to be a fan for abit of fun.I could practically advise  the lot of them on how it should be done with class!

I wonder if the Agatha christie trust is a bit to blame too. i notice since rosalind - A.Cs daughter died, and her grandson has taken over ( who i suspect has never had to work a day in his life) a lot of questionable tv adaptations have come out, and the agatha christie theatre society has put an embargo on anyone perfroming her plays but them. Roasalnd was famous for insisting she continued as a spokesperson for the quality of work delivered, but Matthew seems to (understandably in this day and age) be turning her into an enterprise, sometimes at the expense of the quality of the cash cow that is delivering the goods in the first place. You only have to look at the totally unnessecary Marple series to see the evidence.

Tommy_A_Jones 07 Jan 10 at 1:11 p.m. GMT

Here! Here! Katherine, At Last someone suggesting (Like I think I have) that Suchet might be to blame for the Changes and would ask again, how many who haven't liked the changes have bothered to write to HIM and say so.

Katherine 07 Jan 10 at 9:33 a.m. GMT

Actually I wonder how much David Suchet himself is to blame for this change in tone which you've rightly perceived.

Now I'm not one of the brigade who believe Japp, Hastings and Lemon should be parachuted in to every story; far from it - their twee little comedy subplots could be irritating in the extreme in the earlier episodes. However, of late, some of the films do seem to take themselves incredibly seriously and forget that at heart, Agatha Christie novels are light entertainment, not heavy drama.

I don't think it's a coincidence that things have changed since David Suchet became associate producer. Big stars in long-running series often have a lot of power, so I wonder whenever fans rail at directors or producers or writers for the unnecessary changes that are forced into stories, how often it's at the request of Mr Suchet himself.

I can well believe that all the religious stuff that was shoe-horned into AWD was at his insistence. (He's recently spoken out about how Christianity is sidelined in the media, and he's very full on about his religion.) It sits a bit uneasily with me when he always insists on how true he is to the Poirot of the books, when in fact there are a lot of differences. For instance, why does he wear the padding? Every description of him in Christie refers to Poirot as a little, slim man. Also, he's hardly the insufferable egotist who appears in the novels. In fact, Suchet's creation is rather a fluffy, avuncular character. Again, big stars often don't like the role that they're most famous for to be depicted in an unfavourable light because they think it will affect their fanbase. So this might be the reason.

I agree with you, abc, about Halloween party, and I hope the lightness remains and it doesn't become a big morose, miserable mess.

I suppose we just have to wait and see!

Puffinjill 07 Jan 10 at 6:42 a.m. GMT

Couldn't agree with you more, a b cust!

a_b_cust 07 Jan 10 at 12:17 a.m. GMT

Im back, and just reread the book of awd and also now seen three act tragedy and i have to agree with the aearlier posts - altough the later offerings clearly have alot of work and nmoney put into them, they just lack charm and are no longer in the spirit of A.C but seem to be trying to make something heavy and claustrophobic, which she isn't. Brilliant though David Suchet the pieces have started to become dramas rather than crime entertainment. mat=ybe there is a fear of it becoming murder she worte, but the point is if you follow the stories faithfully that won;t happen as they are so well crafted - they were the ORIGINALS. I hope for exapmple they dont get all heavy on Halloween Party becasue the joy is that that the victims and the killer are actaully quite sick if you think about it, and the placing it in this light british setting makes it even MORE unsettling, which was always Ac's intention. YOu dont need to guid the lily with concets. its as if the director is too present and you ca see all the ideas. JUST TELL THE STORY. Cos every time they unnecesarily change it they slip up. There - thats my four penny worth.  

Bundle_ 04 Jan 10 at 3:52 p.m. GMT

How exciting for them!

And Bless you, Jill!

Puffinjill 04 Jan 10 at 3:26 p.m. GMT

Yes, Bundle, I've seen the DS version of Death On The Nile. by the way, a friend of mine is getting married in 10 days and they are going on a Nile cruise for their honeymoon. I've told her to be on the lookout for gun-toting ex-girlfriends!!

And i'm not jealous at all. I'm always this green colour....

Bundle_ 04 Jan 10 at 2:06 p.m. GMT

Oh, right, Miss. Quinn! I never paid attention to it before that the images were in black and white! Good observation.

MissQuin 04 Jan 10 at 12:03 p.m. GMT

I love the flashbacks but only when they're in colour.The flashbacks show how the crime was committed, so yes, your right Bundle. I think Death in the Nile was the only episode with B&W flashbacks?

That makes sense to me as people's actions arent in black in white in real life!

Bundle_ 03 Jan 10 at 9:06 p.m. GMT

MissQuin

Even the Death in the Nile epiosde had flashbacks in grainy mono. I think the film noir style seems to have been thankfully phased out!

I like when they do the flashbacks. You get a more inside look at the book and you feel less in the dark as to how the characters managed to lie etc. etc.

TO JA: Have you seen Suchet's version of Death on the Nile?

Tommy_A_Jones 03 Jan 10 at 4:26 p.m. GMT

For me it isn't so much that Poirot seems a solitary figure now (After all Hastings, Miss lLemon and Japp weren't in all the books) It's more the fact that these days the Adzaptations seem so different to the books it makes me think I would rather have Hastings, Miss Lemon and Japp in books they shouldn't be in than Nuns and Storylines that aren't in the book.

Puffinjill 03 Jan 10 at 2:48 p.m. GMT

I agree with both of you. I miss the warmth of the earlier episodes,when poirot wasn't such a lonely, solitary figure even though the presence of Miss Lemon, Japp and Hastings in EVERY story was beginning to feel rather formulaic. And I, too, still rate the series highly. Although I don't watch very much  TV, I'm grateful just for any that doesn't rely on minor celebrites or members of the public with no talent at all. And any programme that brings my favourite authors to a wider public is wonderful, providing it does it well and is true to the original books that gained that author a readership in the first place. Hopefully, many people will pick up an AC book for the first time after seeing and find that her books are far, far more interesting and clever than they sometimes appear once a screenwriter has tinkered with it.

But I do wish they would remember that they are there to bring AC's books to life, not just flatter the egos of those involved. The product is the important thing, not the componant parts.

MissQuin 03 Jan 10 at 1:52 p.m. GMT

Dont get me wrong, I love David Suchet as Poirot. I love the costumes, scenery and most of the acting is brilliant. There have been a few dodgy episodes in recent times. But compared to other programmes on tv (ie. reality trash) Poirot is so much better! So I rate most of the series very highly. I just dont like some of the "spicing up" of episodes.

Tommy_A_Jones 03 Jan 10 at 1:41 p.m. GMT

I agree with your Gripes, I think what has happened is to keep him in the series they made him Exec Producer and so he feels he wants things to put his mark on the series so the series has become too Grand but perhaps he feels the idea of the series is to primitive for today's Audience, I doubt it would be commissined now which is sad but now we have Poirot they have to make things which compete with the More Modern Programmes but everything is better in my view when it startys and is small, Channel 4 was much better in the first few years to what it is now 

MissQuin 03 Jan 10 at 1:33 p.m. GMT

Puffinjill, I know what you mean in a way. I found the Poirot series decided to go for a more dark "film noir" approach at one time. In particular the terrible Blue train episode, with lots of scenes at night and black and white. Even the Death in the Nile epiosde had flashbacks in grainy mono. I think the film noir style seems to have been thankfully phased out!

I admit I prefer the earlier light hearted Poirot's with Hastings, Japp and Miss Lemon. They had warmth, humour and didnt take themselves too seriously. I think they were closer to the tone of the books. What does everyone else think?

Puffinjill 03 Jan 10 at 7:16 a.m. GMT

My major gripe had to be how pompous the series has become. Beautifully filmed, yes, and marvellous performances, yes, but it no longer seems to be content tp be a showcase for AC's wonderful work. Each new episode I see feels more like another showcase for the talents of Mr Suchet (and I hate saying that as I love his portrayal of Poirot), and everything else is just built around this. it seems to want to be 'high brow drama' instead of pure entertainment as it was in the beginning. And whats so wrong with entertainment, I'd like to know? If it lightened up a little and stopped taking itself so seriously, it would be a better series and much more watchable.

Tommy_A_Jones 02 Jan 10 at 4:19 p.m. GMT

You have every right to moan as do I they should be more faithful to the books and then we wouldn't moan, I do wonder sometimes if they make some changes so we can moan about them on this site and keep the programmes in our minds so we will watch to see if there are other changes.

Puffinjill 02 Jan 10 at 3:02 p.m. GMT

Well said, Tommy, that's exactly how he plays it! As for letting these gripes lie and not let them annoy us, well, we're only human and it's difficult to do. I know, I struggle with it myself as you have probably guessed from my posts!!

Tommy_A_Jones 02 Jan 10 at 1:22 p.m. GMT

I think Richard Hope is such a Good Actor, he plays roles in a low-key way, I shall be annoyed if Spence is played by someone else as I will think why couldn't they do that with Race in Cards On The Table which would have given ITV to do an appalling version - I know I should let it lie but it so annoys me.

Puffinjill 02 Jan 10 at 6:24 a.m. GMT

Oh, how true! I look forward to the return of Spence in Hallowe'en Party later this year.

Tommy_A_Jones 01 Jan 10 at 3:55 p.m. GMT

It could have beem MUCH WORSE, At least they didn't swap Spence for a Made up Detective.

Puffinjill 01 Jan 10 at 9:24 a.m. GMT

Ushered in my New Year watching Mrs McGinty's Dead from my new series 7 DVD. This is a book I'm fond of so I was a bit wary but I did enjoy it. They pared down the story quite a bit and went for 'atmospheric' at every opportunity but basically true to the original so I was fairly happy with my evenings viewing.

However, one thing I love about the book is the humour and those responsible for the adaptation seemed to think that this was either: a) unnecessary, b) lacking in gravitas, or c) beneath them. Whatever the reason, I think it's a shame they didn't feel it still had it's place in this version. The interplay between characters was much less effective, in my view, without this element. Maureen Summerhayes, for instance, one of my favourite characters in the book, was reduced to a slightly neurotic, childless, messy woman, whereas the original Maureen was a joy to read. And what happened to the Wetherby household? I rather liked Deirdre Henderson. And, obviously four murder cases in the newspaper was felt to be two too many...

But my gripes are small, so just ignore me. It could have been so much worse so I will count my blessings and learn to enjoy these more.

TheButlerDidIT 30 Dec 09 at 12:20 p.m. GMT

go_leafs_nation

Completely off topic, but referring to an earlier post, On Her Majesty's Secret Service had the worst Bond ever. George Lazenby couldn't do Bond to save his life. I prefered the book. My favourite bond films: GoldenEye and Casino Royale.

 I am a massive Bond fan and have read all of Ian Flemming's fantastic books. This is a link for you goleafs for my fav James Bond website. I hope you enjoy it. http://www.ajb007.co.uk/ I know how off-topic this post is so sorry.

Tommy_A_Jones 29 Dec 09 at 3:18 p.m. GMT

The first time I read 3rd Girl I couldn't get past chapter 3 but the second time was much more successful but not the best book mwith Ariadne but still was enjoyable.

Puffinjill 29 Dec 09 at 2:48 p.m. GMT

I very nearly cracked open my new DVDs of series 7 (Thank you Santa!!...I mean, my sister!) and watched it, but my nerve failed me and instead I watched Third Girl, which I did enjoy although I am not a fan of the book. It's so long since I read it that I can't remember how faithful it was so I just put my feet up and enjoyed the performances instead. Quite a pleasant evening.

I'll try to watch the others if I get chance over the next few days.

Tommy_A_Jones 29 Dec 09 at 2:36 p.m. GMT

The Acting was good and there was a nice mix of Actors/Actresses who I had heard of and who I had never came across before although as I have said I liked it but I hope the ones still to come are More faithful and better.

MissQuin 29 Dec 09 at 11 a.m. GMT

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I recorded Appointment with death and watched it last night. I'm glad I didnt watch it on Christmas day! I didnt like the child abuse scenes, they were quiet distressing. Ive no idea why anyone would want them added.

 I also thought too much misery was piled on Ginny's character- (spoilers)child abuse, being a murder suspect, nearly being sold into slavery by a trafficking nun, finding out your real parents are murderers, then watching them die in front of you!!

Also, I dont know what it is with the TV adaptations, but they keep adding evil nuns!! First Nemesis, now Appointment with death.

The only things I liked were the scenery, David Suchet and the acting was good.

go_leafs_nation 28 Dec 09 at 5:29 p.m. GMT

Completely off topic, but referring to an earlier post, On Her Majesty's Secret Service had the worst Bond ever. George Lazenby couldn't do Bond to save his life. I prefered the book. My favourite bond films: GoldenEye and Casino Royale.

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Dec 09 at 4:16 p.m. GMT

I agree with you about the Slave Trade and Child Abuse storylines, as they were most unnecessary, If the writers feel the books need to be spiced up they should leave them to people who don't to Adapt, The fact Lady Boynton says she remembers faces and the fact tghat she worked in a Prison could give people the hint that someone knew her from there, I think it is a bit harsh to callm it a disaster but there again that exactly how I would describe alot of the Marple Episodes and Cardsa On The Table.

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Dec 09 at 4:16 p.m. GMT

I agree with you about the Slave Trade and Child Abuse storylines, as they were most unnecessary, If the writers feel the books need to be spiced up they should leave them to people who don't to Adapt, The fact Lady Boynton says she remembers faces and the fact tghat she worked in a Prison could give people the hint that someone knew her from there, I think it is a bit harsh to callm it a disaster but there again that exactly how I would describe alot of the Marple Episodes and Cardsa On The Table.

Nofret 28 Dec 09 at 3:55 p.m. GMT

What a disappointment!

Although not one of my favourite Christies - the murder en famille was far better realised in "H.P.'s Christmas" with its vivid characters and gripping storyline, the latest TV offering was a disaster! Why bring in child abuse, white slave trade, and archaeology? Like the novel of "Cards on the table" its interest should lie in the psychology of the various suspects, though I suppose that the producers thought that they needed to "spice up" the story to hold ITV audiences limited attention!

The point that a number of the suspects had approached Mrs Boynton, realised she was dead, and subsequently told Poirot that she had spoken to them was not in this film at all.

However, to be fair, when I first read the book I was rather let down by the ending, as Dame Agatha had given us no indication of any previous association between Mrs Boynton and her killer.

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Dec 09 at 3:34 p.m. GMT

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Ah yes Sorry abc you did say you liked it, I don't understand either why the Murderer couldn't have been done the same way either but perhaps as they had changed so much the writers thought they might aswell change that too, also as they might have thought as they had included both parents they might aswell make them both involved with the Murder, I also think the Writers 'Rate' ACs work, I think when buying the rights to the books the powers that be should have made sure there were Writers around who 'Rate' her work, there are Writers about for instance Simon Brett who has taken part in a Documentary on ITV3 about her and T P Bowen and Alan Plater who both wrote for the BBC Miss Marple series, I too liked Mrs McGinty's Dead but I also thought the Camera work was a bit much (Close ups etc.) I don't understand why people like the Adaptation of Cards On The Table, I know alot of people like it up until the last 30 minutes but don't like it that much, as it is one of my favourite books and I was so looking forward to it, I was realy dissapointed that Battle wasn't portrayed as he is one of my favourite Characters and I was annoyed he wasn't portrayed in Towards Zero. Yes I have seen Appointment With Death with Peter Ustinov, In fact I bought the DVD after reading it and I love it. I can see how having Carbon Copies of past Dramatisations might not be a good idea - I think it is go_leafs who thinks that - although I would still watch one but I think if Dramatisations were more faithful it would be better. Although On Her Majestie's Secret Service is the only Jamnes Bond Film I like I don't like it as much as you I am afraid.

LittleMo 27 Dec 09 at 6:43 p.m. GMT

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I am very disappointed but not surprised.

they can never leave a Christie alone these days but always have to change it.

Why oh why do they think they can improve on Agatha's plots and characters.

She gives them a perfectly good story and they change it, and even steal an ending from another of her books quite unnecessarily

I shall keep watching - and keep being disappointed.

ITV3 have just shown Cards on the Table and that was a much better and more faithful dramatisation

a_b_cust 27 Dec 09 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

actually TAJ i did sort of like it. i just didnt think it was an agatha christie which up to now the poirots have managed to pretty much stick to - unlike the new Marples which blow hot and cold and tend to play to the 'pink pound'. What i meant about the murderer doing it in broad daylight is that the elaborate way the 'poison' ( im keeping some info back here on purpose rather than doing the whole spoiler thing) was administered to mrs boynton in the t.v series neednt have involved all the witnesses and palaver with bees or beetles and whathaveyou. they could have done it any time and it would have been more discreet. The administering of the poison in the book is unlaboured and understandable as there was a time frame the murderer had to do it in as there was urgency. The murderer in the tv series could have done the same thing without all the theatricals. When A.C uses theatricals she always ensures it is not incidental but  makes logical sense. I just think the script writers got too clever and do not really get that it is ac's fairness and neatness which makes her great. this was more like an elaborate 'murder she wrote' story.

But like you i love On her Majesties - easily the best bond film. But i liked cards on the table more as it stuck to the book eve though it could have chckened out.  I think i preferred it to mrs mcginty though, which was also quite clumsy and had that wierd glow all over it. it wasnt charming enough. I really enjoyed the blue train which is odd because i dont think it is a very good book. ah well- we are all critics. At least it has been made, and cheers to that.

have yuo seen the film of appointment? with peter ustinov?

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Dec 09 at 3:11 p.m. GMT

I am sorry you didn't like it a b c, Although I will never understand why changes have to be made unless the people making the changes explain why they have to be made, The changes did not annoy me apart from the slave Trade storyline and I was sorry that probably to keep it 'relevent' Child abuse had to be included but I thought at least if they were going to change bits they were changeing it in a huge way and that the sexual Orientation of Characters were kept the same as that is something that really angers me because the personality of the Characters are altered. You ask why the Murderer had to kill in full view of everyone, What do you mean? because the Victim in the book is killed in broad daylight or do you mean at the end when one of the Murderers killed the other? I think that suited the Character as he was reunited with a lost love and wanted to be with her in the next life, That bit reminded me of Death On The Nile although I haven't read that one yet, The only bit I didn't understand was why the Nun was allowed to go off into the Desert to die and it would have been nice if we had seen her accomplice, having him/her would have been a better replacement to the sordid Child abuse storyline.

I do hope you like it but don't blame me if you don't as afew books that others like I don't and the only Bond Film I like is On Her Majestie's Secret Service which alot of people don't.

Anyway back to the topic, I preferred it to Cards On The Table 

a_b_cust 27 Dec 09 at 1:31 p.m. GMT

I feel a bit sorry for Suchet because he has rather lost the plot on this one if he believes it is the best one ever. Although i understand changes have to be made from book to screen, up to now they have mostly improved or clarified the narrative where chrisite got a bit surreal - particualarly in her later novels. However this one falls right into the trap of beliveing it can out christe christie. The book of appointment with death is full of red herrings - that device which makes you think you are cleverer than the writer when in fact she is two steps ahead of you. The film adaptation takes one of these red herrings and uses it in the denouemnt which for me diminishes the whole thing and sort of dummed the book down. I do think it stands as a good drama , but it lacks the fairness and precision that A.C would have wanted to really but her name to it.  There were so many flaws she would not have allowed -  not least what Poitot was doing there in the first place. And the method of murder was just clumsy  - such as the native man who nobody said they saw until way into the thing. And why did the murderer have to commit the crime in such a fashion - in front of everyone. Didnt make sense to me. A.C would have tied the psychology -particualrly in thisone of here most psychologically interesting books - up. And as in the book she would have layed the clues at fair and square, In the novel she practically throws them in your face again and again. I dont think anyone could have got the t.v one except through guesswork.And as for that nun........

Puffinjill 27 Dec 09 at 11:20 a.m. GMT

Well, that sounds a positive review, Tommy, so I will have to bite the bullet and watch it (especially as I had the Poirot series 7 given to me for Christmas and it is in there). Hope you, and all of you out there had a very special day.

wolfbridge 26 Dec 09 at 6:07 p.m. GMT

now i am happy :)

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Dec 09 at 12:10 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

I saw Appointment With Death and to my surprise I really enjoyed it, Yes it was alot Different From The Book and I would have thought Changes are made because it would improve the Book and IMHO it didsn't but it wasn't in the slightest Horrible, I was a bit confused with what relationship the Children were to the Boynton's and the Confussion was added by some Characters being omitted and others lbeing added and there were More Criminals than in the Book and the Murderer's Motive was changed but I enjoyed the Emd result and went to bed a Very Happy Bunny and look forward to Murder With Mirrors on Friday and Three-Act Tragedy on Sunday.

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Dec 09 at 1:12 p.m. GMT

ctually, I don't know if it is a link, I just read Facebook on the site and clicked onto it and it took me to Facebook, stillo confused by it to be honest, I was watching Victoran Christmas yesterdasy and it mentioned A Christmas Carol and My Mum quoted from it this Morening, something Bob Cratchett says, Can't remember what though, No I won't be seeing the Film on Boxing Day but I might soon listen to Hound of The Baskervilles on Audio Cassette read by Freddie Jones, I had another Version Years ago but got bored of it after a while, it was on Yesterday (The BBC version), I didn't watch it as I have seen it before and prefer the Bazil Rathbone Version, Only 3 stories left and then back to AC. Merrry Christmas. 

Puffinjill 24 Dec 09 at 5:56 p.m. GMT

Oh, I shall be around before the New Year so you can't get rid of me so easily. I shall look to see if I can see that link to Facebook (as I've finally got round to being on Facebook). Tell me, now you are reading Sherlock Holmes and enjoying the stories, do you think you will go to see the Holmes film that comes out Boxing Day?

You were lucky to get those photos so soon. I'm still missing a present I've bought for someone as it's still in the post somewhere. Oh well, nothing I can do about it now! I love this time on Christmas Eve - shops are shutting,I've watched It's A Wonderful Life, I'm all packed and ready to go to my family, and there is nothing left to do to prepare. I shall sit and read A Christmas Carol as I do each year and enjoy the festivities. Hope you all do too!!!

Tommy_A_Jones 24 Dec 09 at 1:10 p.m. GMT

I looked it up on Google, it Looks Great. it had a Facebook link so I told one of my Facebook Friends and I mentioned the SH Game and My sister remembers it. I hope you enjoy the SH game, I will do my very best to watch Appointment With Death and tell you what I thought of it, surely it can't be as bad as Cards On The Table, I might write to David DSuchet if I get the urge to get answers as to what part of the Book don't work for the Screen and needed to be changed.

Merry Christmas Puffin and hope to chat to you soon if not before New Year in the New Year. BTW, I ordered a Signeds Photo of DS on Ebay yesterday and it came today. 

Puffinjill 24 Dec 09 at 7:46 a.m. GMT

Tommy, it's very unimaginatively titled the 'Agatha Christe Trivia Board Game with hundreds of questions about Britains Favourite Mystery Stories'. Pretty well does what it says on the tin (and it IS in a tin, actually!). It was bought from a National Trust shop somewhere but it isn't made by them. Good hunting if you are trying to find one too!!

Enjoy watching Appointment With Death, if you can, Tommy. Whatever you do, have a wonderful Christmas, my friend, and I wish you much health and happiness in the coming New Year!

GKCfan 23 Dec 09 at 6:57 p.m. GMT

No, the U.S. has not seen Third Girl, Appointment With Death, or Three Act Tragedy.  We don't know why PBS planned to show Cat Among the Pigeons and Mrs. McGinty's Dead in summer 2008 and then delayed them a full year.  I wrote to ask, but I didn't get a response.  Since they would air on Masterpiece Mystery, and given that Masterpiece Classic's schedule is set for the spring, the earliest that Poirot fans can hope for is summer 2010.

Tommy_A_Jones 23 Dec 09 at 3:57 p.m. GMT

I thought US had seen Appointment With Death?

wolfbridge 23 Dec 09 at 3:37 p.m. GMT

that depends on PBS, watch their site or ask them about it.

Bundle_ 23 Dec 09 at 3:32 p.m. GMT

How come the US didn't get to see Appointment With Death or Three Act Tragedy?! And how long do we have to wait until we can see them?

Tommy_A_Jones 23 Dec 09 at 3:04 p.m. GMT

Of Course, Silly me, What is the AC Game called?

Puffinjill 23 Dec 09 at 1:22 p.m. GMT

I found the Sherlock Homes game you mentioned. I didn't look for the AC one as I've got it already.

Tommy_A_Jones 23 Dec 09 at 12:32 p.m. GMT

Which did you find 221B Baker Street or the AC Game? I too wish I knew people who wouyld want to play and I would get both Games and play them, Most if not all Local Radio Stations have a facility where by people ask if asnyone has got thgings like a Cooker Radio Etc, If your Radio Station has why not phone and ask if there are any AC Fans who want to play the Game? I know the Idea is nquite Odd but it is worth a try.

I too wish I still had the Game, Now I am really interested in Holmes I would love it, Maybe we still have it |I don't know, btw, I joined a website for SH the other day but the Forum isn't half as good as this one and I don't understand it really, I found another but it wouldn't accept the Password I chose and now I cxan't find the site. 

Puffinjill 23 Dec 09 at 6:55 a.m. GMT

IT'S ON EBAY!!!! Quite a few of them, actually! If I had someone to play it with, I'd get it in a flash, but I guess it would just sit on my bookshelf as my AC one does. Must get some different friends...

Puffinjill 23 Dec 09 at 6:49 a.m. GMT

It's trivia based - about her books and her life - and you have to answer questions correctly to move around the board. Very similar to hundreds of games and easy to play IF you have some knowledge of AC's life and work. It would just be so much fun for me to find someone who has read ANY of the books and would like to play! I could get out some of the questions and ask them on here (in fact, most fans on here would find them rather easy, I think) but not as much fun as gathering around a table, (non-alcoholic) drink at hand, with like-minded friends and family.

I wish you still had your game, Tommy, as would love to play that too. I wonder if it's still made or whether it might be found selling for pennies on Ebay? Certainly worth a look! In fact, I think I will do that now....

If I can find this game too, I'll just HAVE to find someone to play them with. I'll supply the table and the drink.......Come on! It's Christmas!!

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Dec 09 at 12:44 p.m. GMT

I don't remember that much about it but | mentioned it to my brother and he reminded me it was called 221B Baker Street and from memory you had to go round the board and pick up Cards, which revealed the Motive and whodunnit, there was a story which had to be read out at the Begginning (I think) like the parts in the stories where Watson explains the Mystery and Holmes's Client. What do you have to do in the Poirot Board Game Puffin? 

Puffinjill 22 Dec 09 at 6:36 a.m. GMT

I was given the Agatha Christie board game for Christmas, oohh, must be three years ago now. And still it sits, untouched and unplayed as I know no one who has any interest at all in AC and her books. Great present to receive, but a bit of a waste actually, as I have no desire to sit around a table with family and friends and watch their faces as they are stumped at every clue but I (hopefully) answer all the questions!! Winning is good (and I can be a poor looser and tend to sulk!!) but not much fun when everyone else thinks you are a bit strange and need to get out more!! So until I can find another devoted fan to play it with, it will remain shut away in its box. Anyone out there at a loose end this festive season and fancy a game? Sharpen up your Christie trivia, get on down to Somerset and it's game on....

Now, a Sherlock Holmes game, you say Tommy? I've never seen that one. I'd love to know about that but, AGAIN, alas, no one to play it with, even if I could get my hands on it!! Can you remember much about it, Tommy? I'm intrigued, my dear fellow.......

wolfbridge 21 Dec 09 at 7:36 p.m. GMT

david suchet is on THIS MORNING tomorrow (ITV 1 1030am) Talking about the new movies

Tommy_A_Jones 21 Dec 09 at 4:23 p.m. GMT

WOW! Is there an Agatha Christie Board Game, I would love to play it but I there again I wouldn't have anyone to play with me. I am still enjoying The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, I was reading one of the stories yesterday and suddenly had this memory of playing a Sherlock Holmes Board Game when I was younger, I can't remember what it was called though.

Puffinjill 21 Dec 09 at 8:09 a.m. GMT

I was disappointed with Five Little Pigs but I didn't feel they messed with the story half as much as they did with, say, Cards On The Table. The only major change was tinkering with (again) the sexuality of the characters. However, as this was done more in the way of a comment about one of the characters more than to move the action on or alter the storyline in a major way, I personally didn't find it too irritating. I dreaded watching it as Five Little Pigs is my second favourite AC book but I feel it escaped any reckless tinkering and I thank heaven for it.

Perhaps Appointment With Death might be the same. But judging by some of the post I've read from those who have seen it, I very much doubt it. So it will be television strictly OFF on Christmas day and on with the board games. Still can't find a single soul to play my Agatha Christie board game with......

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Dec 09 at 4:09 p.m. GMT

I didn't like it either, it seemed too long and changed The Victims Sexuality didn't it which was silly.

TheButlerDidIT 20 Dec 09 at 2:52 p.m. GMT

I didn't like the adaption of five little pigs. It had nothing to do with the book ie the five little pigs ryhme and was utterly boring.

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Dec 09 at 12:44 p.m. GMT

Thankyou Puffin, I might do that, There is only 1 Poirot Episode I really do not like and as for the Miss Marple's I think I would rather stick to my Joan Hickson's and probabvly one day buy bthem on DVD rather than buy the few GMs I like but I MIGHT buy the Julia McKenzies but there again I might not. I will deffinitely do my best to watch Appointment With Death on Christmas Day and Murder With Mirrors on New Year's Day and will tell you my Oppinion on them.

Sorry again wolfbridge for being rude.

Puffinjill 20 Dec 09 at 8:51 a.m. GMT

You can buy the individual series on seperate DVD's but not individual episodes as far as I'm aware. But, as wolfbridge said, the boxed set is so cheap online it's worth buying that and just picking out the ones you care to watch. You don't have to watch them all if you don't want to. Thats what I do. As for space, I'm sure those you live with would be happy for you to have things around you that you like. I always find my things tend to dominate my home but I have a very patient partner, who never reads murder/mystery books but puts up with me ENDLESSLY talking about them(although I think he is grateful I have found this site so I can now talk to all of you instead), who doesn't seem to mind me filling our house with my taste in books/films/DVDs/etc. So he says....

Any of you who do watch the adaptations, I hope you enjoy (?) them and will look with interest to see your comments afterwards! It's only the one Christmas day I feel a distinct need to miss so I may well watch the others, families and work permitting.

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Dec 09 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

I am sorry wolfbridge, I retract my last sentance.

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Dec 09 at 4:45 p.m. GMT

If you have books Video's, and DVDs everywhere plus you live with other people whose things are as important as yours it isn't so strange Personally if you can't see that I don't think I am the strange one.

wolfbridge 19 Dec 09 at 4:03 p.m. GMT

what do you mean by space - if you have problems putting a dvd box into your house/flat - then you are a bit strange :D

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Dec 09 at 2:13 p.m. GMT

Because I am short of space, and although I am a Huge AC fan if I can by them Individually I can consentrate on buying the Adaptations I like and not have to waste my Money on Adaptations I loath like Cards On The Table.

wolfbridge 19 Dec 09 at 2:01 p.m. GMT

why individually, the box set is cheap as ever on amazon.co.uk :)

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Dec 09 at 1:48 p.m. GMT

Great Idea wolfbridge but you need the space, and also can you buy the Poirot's individually? there are some I wouldn't want.

wolfbridge 19 Dec 09 at 1:40 p.m. GMT

who can give a nickle on whats in the telly at christmas - get some decent dvd collection and enjoy the new stuff.

i will watch Cranford Crimbo Specials and mostly not anything else on LIVE Televisin

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Dec 09 at 1:01 p.m. GMT

I agree with you Puffin but I would just like to know what bits do not translate to thew screen well and so needed to be changed, sadly in some cases I have to dissagree I have found that a very small Minority of the books are only worth reading BACAUSE they have Poirot (Sometimes with othger regular Characters) and Miss Marple (Again sometimes with regular Characters) and Tommy And Tuppence (etc, etc) and I am sad to say some of the others I won't be reading again.

To answer your Question yes I will be watching as I would feel disloyal not watching and also out of curiosity due to the bad reeviews on this site, the final reason is because having read my periodicals I have seen that there is prescious little to watch although I am looking forward to Cranford aswell as Appointment With Death and Murder With Mirrors, Surely Appointment With Death can't be as bad as Cards On The Table can it? It is a pity the Beeb aren't doing some of the JH adaptations in the afternoon's like they have for the last 2 years, mind you I have them on Video if I want.

Puffinjill 19 Dec 09 at 8:10 a.m. GMT

I don't doubt for a minute that David Suchet will remain faithful to Poirot as he was created by AC. But he still has to work with the material he is given and if this is poor, the end result will be poor, regardless of how well he plays the part. The reason we read AC's book (well, speaking for myself) is that the stories are so GOOD and they don't depend on a single character to keep us interested. I may read one BECAUSE it features Miss Marple or M. Poirot, but I would not have read the complete canon and continued to love them most of my life had they been flimsy and poorly crafted storylines. Bless Mr Suchet for keeping a stiff upper lip and defending the adaptations (so very British!), but a good adaptation is the sum of its parts and is NOT successful simply by David putting in a fantastic and faithful-to-the-spirit-of-AC performance. He's not there to carry it alone.

So will you be watching, Tommy? I think I may steer clear or I can see it putting a dampner on my (hopefully) jolly Christmas.

Tommy_A_Jones 16 Dec 09 at 4:48 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Although I haven't seen this yet I would like tyo mmake some points;

1) I wish that Mr Suchet had felt the need to defend Cards On The Table then we might have been given the reason for those appalling changes

2) I have read Appointment With Death not that long ago and apart from the fact that Agatha Christie should have explained the Murderer's past Crime I don't see which part didn't work

3) If some parts of the book didn't work for the screen Mr Suchet should explain which parts and why or else don't bother try to defend it, inb short all or nothing.

4) We are the Fans who have bought the books and have decided to watchg the programme so We should be allowed to see the Adaptation Properly

go_leafs_nation 15 Dec 09 at 8:57 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

X is seen with blood on her hands; Y is found with her head bashed in. And somehow, the viewer isn't expected to make the obvious connection? The talk of a mysterious slave trader behind the attack is horrid misdirection in a flimsy plot, and hardly justifies Suchet's claim that is is one of the greatest Poirot films they've made.

I've already talked about my issues on direction and music, and with these factors combined, I really have to disagree with Suchet here. Yes, Hercule Poirot is the same Poirot- but for once, the case he wallowed through got extremely dull. A far better job was done expanding the somewhat dull Third Girl. Just because the film has dark themes like child abuse, doesn't mean it automatically gains diplomatic immunity and must be one of the greatest in the series.

"However, sometimes there are instances where the adaptation from novel to film does not really work and so the plots have to be broadened."

A great big thanks for summing up my thoughts exactly. I was more than open to changes in Appointment With Death; but when Poirot tosses up random conclusions faster and with less hints (but far more obvious and silly ones; "Ah, but remember, I remarked that the goat looked slightly like a panda and that her light blue shirt did not match white gloves...") than Jessica Fletcher... AWD is the only Poirot episode that I dislike to date, but it does have one or two interesting elements, in particular a perfect Mrs. Boynton, and a surprisingly good performance by Tim Curry (but in weak, weak material).

wolfbridge 15 Dec 09 at 5:17 p.m. GMT

D.Suchet on "Appointment with Death"

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“I can appreciate and understand the adverse reaction to the fact that we have moved so far away from the original book, and I can assure fans that it is not something any of us would do wilfully. However, sometimes there are instances where the adaptation from novel to film does not really work and so the plots have to be broadened. And, in broadening the plots, other characters are sometimes introduced by the writer. I do hope that those who see Appointment With Death will agree with me with that it’s still very much in the spirit of Agatha Christie, still very much in the spirit of Appointment with Death as written and Poirot is still Poirot: I will always, wherever I’m put, be faithful to him as created by Agatha. And so I hope that everyone will enjoy what I consider to be a very exciting, very dark and very macabre tale of a wonderful book and one of the greatest Poirot films we’ve ever made.”

go_leafs_nation 12 Dec 09 at 4:17 p.m. GMT

Exciting news, of course!... but not for a Canuck like me. Nick Dear is an extremely gifted screenwriter, and I look forward to this latest one. The only fears I have is seeing Ashley Pearce's name attatched as director. Her direction style is horrid; every episode she's been in charge of has had distracting visuals, as haloes of light surround EVERYTHING. But if the cast of actors is talented enough, they could make up for this (case in point: Mrs. McGinty's Dead).

And a new composer has been brought on board for the music, according to IMDb! Christian Henson is his name, and he'll be apparently composing music for the first three episodes (he hasn't done any Poirots prior to this). I'm excited to hear what he comes up with, as music will either add to a movie's success (By The Pricking of My Thumbs) or bring the whole thing crashing down (The old version of Ordeal by Innocence, Appointment With Death).

Tommy_A_Jones 12 Dec 09 at 1:28 p.m. GMT

I have just looked up Stewart Harcourt and he wrote the Screenplays for A Murder Is Announced and By The Pricking of My Thumbs both of which I loved even if Miss Marple shouldn't have been in the Latter Book and Tuppence was portrayed as an Alcoholic and Tommy was portreayed as Ascerbic but Tommy was absorbed in his work which could have explained Tuppences's Drink Problem (Although frankly I think not) and he wasn also worried about Tuppence's Safety which explains his Manner and he was like that in the Book but I still feel the same about Cards On The Table.

wolfbridge 12 Dec 09 at 12:58 p.m. GMT

sadly people only come up to say how they dislike something, if they enjoyed a film they rather stay silent - thats how it works on the internet :(

McGinty 11 Dec 09 at 9:15 p.m. GMT

S_Sigerson

Oh well. You can't please all the people all the time.

LOL!  Or in the case of this forum - NONE of the people None of the time !! Seriously though I'm glad we don't have to wait 12 months before we see the new series.

S_Sigerson 11 Dec 09 at 5:16 p.m. GMT

Oh well. You can't please all the people all the time.

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Dec 09 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

Oh dear! If it is anything like Cards On Ther Table it will be AWFUL!!! and if Stewart Harcourt Adapted the Miss Marple's don't like The Clocks will be horrible too, I can't remember which ones he Adapted as I don't take much notice of the people who ruin my favourite Books.

S_Sigerson 11 Dec 09 at 4:58 p.m. GMT

Excellent! Nick Dear, who did a great job adapting Cards on the Table for the little screen, adapted Three Act Tragedy so I am definitely looking forward to seeing it.  Stewart Harcourt, who adapted several Miss. Marples that were quite good including By the Pricking of My Thumbs, adapted The Clocks so I am looking forward to seeing The Clocks as well.

wolfbridge 11 Dec 09 at 3:46 p.m. GMT

at a later date it says.

http://www.itv.com/presscentre/agathachristiespoirot/threeacttragedy/default.html

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Dec 09 at 3:42 p.m. GMT

Any Idea when The Clocks will be on?

wolfbridge 11 Dec 09 at 2:59 p.m. GMT

also theres another new Poirot :)

Three Act Tragedy premieres 03.01.2010 at 8pm on ITV1.

go_leafs_nation 10 Dec 09 at 5:05 p.m. GMT

The two things (aside from a really weak story) that really brought the episode down in my view was the direction and the music. The diretion was really distracting, as haloes of light surrounded everything. As for the music, the chorus perpetually chants, and this simply screams "OMINOUS!" at the viewer. By the end, it sounded like a Gregorian chant without the Latin.

wolfbridge 10 Dec 09 at 4:24 p.m. GMT

Appointment with Death is VERY entertaining, but if you are a hardcore-stick-to-the-novel-Fan you should avoid this maybe.

Good Actors, good Story, very nice atmo, nice Settings and so on - cannot say a bad word about it as i have not read the book.

Id rather have an Entertaining Reworked Movie than a not so good movie that is true to a (maybe poor) book.

If you want your favorite christie, puff, then read it and avoid watching it. But you might miss some entertaining Movie there.

Puffinjill 10 Dec 09 at 8:06 a.m. GMT

I think I might be best giving this a wide berth. I can just see my Christmas this year being overshadowed by the annoyance I will feel if my favourite Christie has been butchered in the name of 'entertainment'. Better to leave well alone, play silly games with the family and avoid the TV as much as possible (although I see there is a Orsen Welles season on BBC4 which I must, MUST see).

Monkfish, I'll keep a mince pie for you if you like. Then you can avoid it too.

Monkfish 09 Dec 09 at 11:03 a.m. GMT

I was just reading about it in the Christmas double edition of Radio Times. Sounds as if they've hacked up the story a fair bit. We shall see. At least it gives me a programme to watch on the day. There's nothing else for me.

wolfbridge 26 Nov 09 at 7:13 p.m. GMT

okay so they changed it

NEW AIRDATE CHRISTMAS DAY!

8.00 Coronation Street 9.00 Agatha Christies Poirot

McGinty 26 Nov 09 at 7:02 p.m. GMT

They're now advertising it for Christmas Day, with They Do It With Mirrors on New Years Day.