I Went to See A Haunting in Venice

I’m writing this post on a Tuesday night. I just got home from my parents house. I treated my Mom to go see A Haunting in Venice for her birthday, which was at the beginning of the month. Overall I felt it was a very good movie and wanted to share some of my thoughts on it. You know I love a cozy mystery, whether it’s in book or movie format.

Initial Thoughts

Although this story was based on Hallowe’en Party by Agatha Christie, it apparently doesn’t follow the book at all. My Mom is a real mystery fan and said that the movie really didn’t feel like an Agatha Christie story at all. I asked her why, and if it was because the story felt very paranormal. She said yes, and that it also was way darker than she expected.

The Vibes

I absolutely loved the setting of Venice, Italy. Some of the scenery in the beginning before Poirot and Ariadne arrive at the Palazzo was so beautiful. When they’re walking through town and see all of the Halloween costumes and when they’re riding around in the gondolas. It’s all a very cool vibe. My Mom and I both agreed that we would love to visit there someday.

The whole movie had a very spooky feel. Although I haven’t read anything by Agatha Christie yet (I know… I’m ashamed of myself) I had a feeling it was darker than other mysteries of hers. There was a paranormal aspect, what with the haunted history of the Palazzo. And then there was the darkness. There were actually a few jump scares (albeit, very calm ones) and it felt weird for a movie that I thought was going to be like a cozy mystery.

The Characters

Of course I loved Hercule Poirot, and I really enjoyed Ariadne Oliver, portrayed by Tina Fey. She fit the role really well and did a great job of being serious but also being funny with some of her lines and assisting of Poirot. Michelle Yeoh played a psychic medium and she was very good at her role. I really felt scared during her scenes, because she claims to feel so many spirits in the Palazzo.

The Mystery

It was a good mystery, with a lot of twists and turns. I wanted so badly to solve the mystery myself, but I did not. Sigh. Maybe next time. I do think my sleuthing skills are getting better, but I’m just not 100% accurate yet.

Meanwhile my Mom knew who it was from the very beginning. She says she didn’t know why but that she just had a feeling.

Final Thoughts

This is a really fun mystery movie to watch if you’re looking for a little Halloween fun. Personally, I did find it pretty creepy. But in a fun way!

This is my first movie review on the blog! But if you’re looking for some cozy mystery recommendations, click here.

xo Marian