The Poirot Collection - The Memorable TV DVD Review

This month Roadshow release a set of recent typically lavish Hercule Poirot adaptations (originally broadcast on the UK ’s ITV1 Network in 2003 and recently seen on the ABC), here we take a look at three of them.

SAD CYPRESS

Cast: David Suchet (Hercule Poirot), Elisabeth Dermot Walsh (Elinor Carlisle ), Rupert Penry-Jones (Rody Winter), Kelly Reilly (Mary Gerrard), Paul McGann (Dr.Lord), Phyllis Logan (Nurse Hopkins ), Marion O'Dwyer (Nurse O'Brien), Diana Quick (Mrs.Welman)

Hercule Poirot is convinced that socialite Elinor Carlisle (about to be sentenced to death) is innocent of the murder she has been accused of. The crux of this beautifully looking period crime drama is a poison pen letter that could save a girl from the gallows. As is often the case with Agatha Christie the setting is a large country house (but that’s one of the things that makes her work so enjoyable, comfort food almost). The high profile cast (Elisabeth Dermot-Walsh, Paul McGann and Phyllis Logan) are also a major plus.

FIVE LITTLE PIGS

Cast: David Suchet (Hercule Poirot), Aidan Gillen, Rachel Stirling, Gemma Jones, Marc Warren, Patrick Malahide

After a gap of fourteen years Lucy Crane returns home to England from Canada determined to prove that her mother was not the murderer she was accused of being (Caroline Crane having been hung for murdering her artist husband).Again the high profile cast helps turn Five Little Pigs into a very entertaining slice of mystery TV, surprisingly faithful to Christie’s source novel, it’s world war II setting allowing for a slightly darker theme than is usual in Poirot. As is per the norm in the world of Agatha Christie Poirot gathers the five chief suspects together (the five little pigs of the title) in a country house to unveil the murderer.

THE HOLLOW

Cast: David Suchet (Hercule Poirot), Lysette Anthony, Jonathon Cake, Claire Price, Edward Fox, Sarah Miles,

Poirot’s weekend at country retreat The Hollow (owned by the eccentric Angkatell’s) is spoilt somewhat by the murder of the local Doctor, Poirot is shocked to learn that everyone in the house has a reason for wanting the doctor dead.Certainly a more traditional Agatha Christie than the previous two mentioned. Suchet really has proved himself to be the quintessential Poirot, his every inflection and mannerism ringing true to Christie’s creation. Once again a top flight cast adds to the enjoyment, especially nice to see the always good value Sarah Miles as the eccentric Lady Angkatell.

These Poirot’s are guaranteed perfect Sunday night viewing, with huge amounts of period gloss and that classic mystery element.