A Fantastic Mystery

Rating: 8/10 (16 November 2017)

Full disclosure, I never read the book or saw the original movie that every other reviewer has mentioned. Obviously I am going to track it down soon. Because of this my impressions of the movie are from the point of view of someone who had no idea what to expect, only that someone was murdered on a train in the 1930s and a quirky genius guy was there to find out who.
I very much enjoyed this movie, and was impressed by the way the film pulled me into the world it sets up. The sets are spectacular and the CGI is stunning without being over the top. The impressive cast did not put on their best performances, although there were not a lot of lines or screen time for any individual (besides Kenneth Branagh) to work with. Branagh did an outstanding job and I found his character walked the line between being eccentric and unbearable just right.
As someone who was unfamiliar with the plot, I can see why the book was popular and now has two movies. It is very exciting and fun to follow. Many reviewers are complaining that there never should have been a remake, but I feel there is enough of an audience in the same situation as me to bring fresh eyes and excitement. I loved the movie and would gladly see it again.
Also, my mom has read the book and seen the original movie, so she knew the plot and still sat wide eyed next to me the entire time. I think this movie has a lot to offer and would recommend it to anyone looking for an escape into a high class world of mystery from a time before electronics solved crimes.