REVIEW: Poirot Peril at End House (S2.E1)

©ITV

On the 7th January 1990, we saw our first feature length Poirot mystery with David Suchet as the sleuth. It was adapted by Clive Exton, the head writer, and directed by Renny Rye.

Story

Poirot and Captain Hastings are on holiday in Devon when they meet Nick Buckley, a young girl who believes she is being targeted. Several incidents have threatens her life recently and Poirot fears for her safety. But on bonfire night, the killer takes a final move which results in the death of Miss Buckley, but it is not Nick who is killed...

This was based on one of Agatha Christie's earlier Poirot novels, and an unusual one to go for as a first feature length adaption. Having not read the original book myself, I don't know how close faithful this adaption is, but I believe that it remains close the source material. The plot is very good, one of Christie's cleverer plots, and the adaption shows this well. There are no end of suspects, it seems there is no motive, but in Poirot's clever denouement, he reveals all.

Direction, location, soundtrack 

This film really makes the most of the picturesque Devonshire location, with the film being shot for the most part in Salcombe, Devon. Rye's direction is certainly not dark like the later films, but it serves its purpose and boosts the scenery.

Cast and characters 

Captain Hastings accompanies Poirot throughout most of the film, Hugh Fraser as always gives a good performance, who works so well with the amazing David Suchet, who plays Poirot with such skill even though it's early days. Philip Jackson plays Japp who seems to have turned up in Devon of all places, a trick that will happen in most films. Surely Japp should stay in London, don't Devon have their own police force?

The character of Miss Lemon is expanded here, giving her an interest in the paranormal, where she holds a seance for Poirot. These characteristics come from Pauline Moran's own interests, I believe.  Of the guest cast, Polly Walker stands out as Nick Buckley.