First Look at John Malkovich as Hercule Poirot in BBC's Adaptation of Agatha Christie's THE ABC MURDERS
Here's our first look at John Malkovich in the role of Hercule Poirot in BBC's upcoming adaptation of Agatha Christie's The ABC Murders. As you can see, he's dialed back on the look of the character and isn't going for the over-exaggerated version that we've seen in recent depictions like Kenneth Branagh in Murder on the Orient Express.
The story is set in the 1930's which is "a time when the nation is dangerously divided, with suspicion and hatred on the rise. In the midst of this tension, Poirot faces a serial killer known only as "A.B.C." First the killer strikes in Andover, then Bexhill. As the murder count rises, the only clue is the copy of the ABC Railway Guide at each crime scene. Poirot’s investigations are thwarted at every turn by an enemy determined to outsmart him. If the detective is to match his nemesis, then everything about him will be called into question: his authority, integrity, past and identity."
The ABC Murders will be a three-part adaptation of Agatha Christie’s classic story and Malkovich will be joined by Rupert Grint (Harry Potter), Andrew Buchan (Broadchurch, The Honourable Woman), Eamon Farren (Twin Peaks, Chained), Tara Fitzgerald (Game of Thrones), Bronwyn James (Harlots), Freya Mavor (The Sense of an Ending), Shirley Henderson (Harry Potter, Happy Valley), Kevin McNally (Pirates Of The Caribbean, Legend), Gregor Fisher (Love Actually) and Poldark’s Jack Farthing (The Riot Club).
The series is being developed by BAFTA-nominated writer Sarah Phelps. This is what Malcovich had to say about her in a statement:
"I’m honored to have been asked to play Hercule Poirot. It’s a role that’s been played by a number of excellent actors, and I am enjoying the numerous challenges this part presents. I have great respect for Sarah Phelps’ screenplay and hope to do both she and Agatha Christie’s creation some measure of justice."
The ABC Murders is currently in production under the direction of Alex Gabassi (The Frankenstein Chronicles, El Hipnotizador).
I'm a big fan of Malkovich and the projects that he's been a part of in his career and it's going to be great to see how he ends up playing the role.
Source: THR