The Thursday Murder Club
In line with the trend of films like The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, The Thursday Murder Club is self-aware about its purpose: to gather a group of seasoned stars to attract viewers. This light-hearted mystery about retirees who solve cold cases for pleasure is as easy-going as a game of Clue and as enjoyable as an Agatha Christie novel. While not particularly original, the impressive cast and a hint of self-awareness compensate for its clichés. The film is unpretentious and filled with familiar tropes but embraces its nature without pretense.
Helen Mirren shines as the astute leader Elizabeth, who occasionally hints at a mysterious past as an intelligence agent. Meanwhile, Celia Imrie portrays Joyce, a lively nurse and enthusiastic group member who often brings homemade cakes. Ben Kingsley has a more subdued role as Ben, a reserved psychiatrist, while Pierce Brosnan steals the spotlight as Ron, an exuberant former union activist.
The Bottom Line: Generic but irresistibly cast.
Release date: Thursday, August 28 (Netflix)
Cast: Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Celia Imrie, Naomi Ackie, Daniel Mays, Henry Lloyd-Hughes, Tom Ellis, Jonathan Pryce, David Tennant, Geoff Bell, Richard E. Grant, Ingrid Oliver
Director: Chris Columbus
Writers: Katy Brand, Suzanne Heathcote
Rated PG-13, 1 hour 58 minutes
Set within the picturesque Coopers Chase, a seniors’ residence resembling an idyllic countryside estate, the settings have been beautifully crafted by production designer James Merifield. The apartments are spacious and inviting, with sprawling lawns and even the presence of llamas adding to its charm. The film’s cinematography, handled by Don Burgess, captures the grandeur of the surroundings.
The narrative shifts from a cold case to a fresh murder mystery when the co-owner of Coopers Chase is killed, allowing his partner to potentially displace the tenants. David Tennant delivers a charismatic, exaggerated performance as the conniving partner, while Naomi Ackie stands out as a perceptive young police officer, and Richard E. Grant adds a chilling touch in a late cameo. Director Chris Columbus lends his expertise to create a polished and engaging film.
The film sometimes humorously acknowledges its own clichés. In one scene, Joyce expresses her excitement as they head to the police station, comparing their situation to a typical drama featuring daring older detectives. Elizabeth sharply quips about the use of such descriptors, highlighting the film’s self-awareness. Despite this, the clichés remain, and the plot indulges in twists and red herrings, steering clear of satire while delivering entertaining storytelling.
While the film lightly touches on themes of aging and mortality—like Elizabeth’s husband showing early signs of dementia—it primarily focuses on the vibrant spirit of its characters. The final scene features Elizabeth and Steven dancing to Cat Stevens’ “Oh Very Young,” a somewhat heavy-handed attempt at poignancy that occasionally veers toward cringe-worthy. The Thursday Murder Club is based on Richard Osman‘s best-selling novel, paving the way for further sequels in this cozy mystery series.
