A Haunting in Venice (2023) - Review

A Haunting in Venice leans more toward being a cerebral whodunnit detective mystery than a parade of jump scares. This cinematic adaptation draws from Agatha Christie's 1969 novel, Hallowe'en Party, marking Kenneth Branagh's third directorial venture into her literary world. His previous endeavours being 2022’s Death on the Nile and 2017’s Murder on the Orient Express.

In the film, we are reintroduced to the charismatic Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, brought to life once again by the director Branagh himself. As the title suggests, the story unfolds against the backdrop of Venice, a city that is engrossed in history and intrigue. While the film does delve into the supernatural with its haunting premise, it extends beyond to reach deeper to focus on human emotions along with drama, mystery, and the art of deduction.

The story of A Haunting in Venice

The movie takes place in the atmospheric setting of Venice in 1947, after the renowned detective Poirot has decided to retire from solving mysteries. However, his peaceful retirement does not last long when his friend, the mystery novelist Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey), pays him a visit. Little does Poirot know that her arrival will thrust him back into the world of solving mysteries. Oliver unwittingly brings with her a case that revolves around a grand palazzo, haunted by the spectres of tormented children from its dark past as an orphanage.

The huge palazzo, which is shrouded in an eerie atmosphere, belongs to the affluent Rowena Drake (played by Kelly Reilly). Rowena's desperate desire to communicate with her departed daughter prompts her to hire spirit medium Joyce Reynolds (Michelle Yeoh). Their attempt to contact the deceased takes place on the fateful All Hallows' Eve, during a séance (meeting where people try to contact deceased ones) that takes a dark turn. A murder takes place between the mystic proceedings, which sets the stage for detective Poirot to step in and unravel the case.

Horror elements

Don't expect spine-tingling fear in A Haunting in Venice. Much of the film takes place within the sprawling, ominous mansion, creating an atmosphere that is more unsettling than truly claustrophobic. This sense of eeriness is primarily a result of the film's setting — a desolate and shadowy Venice night. While the film does indeed feature spirits, its direction seems focused on pulling viewers into the charm of its main characters and the mysterious nature of the storyline. Occasional jump scares are spread through the film, but they are unlikely to scare seasoned horror enthusiasts. The film's score, composed by Hildur Guðnadóttir, sets the creepy and eerie atmosphere that is present throughout the film.

Praiseworthy cinematography and direction

Even within its confined setting, A Haunting in Venice effectively portrays narrowness and suffocation as Poirot systematically interrogates the guests from the séance, all potential suspects. Speaking of confinement, the cinematography in A Haunting in Venice is truly praiseworthy. The film's visual storytelling is lucid and cohesive. You will be consistently engaged, never left in a state of confusion about the events taking place or the on-screen action. However, the reveal does come across as somewhat unsurprising and lacks a significant impact. Nevertheless, all in all, it still manages to be an enjoyable watch.