Last night I started to watch The ABC Murders starring John Malkovich as Poirot. As an avid fan of David Suchet, I was cautious but went in with an open mind. While I admit I have not seen a John Malkovich movie, I do know he is well respected as an actor and always gets solid reviews.
This 3-part mini-series has a darker, more serious tone. Poirot comes across as a very serious man with something weighing heavily on his mind. As the first episode progresses, there are hints from Inspector Crome, flash backs that something more serious lies beneath the surface than just mysterious letters signed, “Chin-Chin, A .B.C.”
I am happy to report it only took the first scene for me to get on board with Malkovich’s Hercule Poirot. So far, the writers have taken some liberties with the character and the story itself but they are good liberties. It is adding another layer to the story to capture the audience, most of whom already know the story.
The plot line sticks to a lot of the same elements, same character names, locations, etc., but weaves in a bit more to make it even more engaging. You are not just following Poirot and the Scottland Yard inspectors to capture a serial killer.
I will watch episode 2 today and report back. I am happy to say, however, that this Poirot also has me hooked!