The film of Richard Osman’s best-selling book is a sparkling celebration of its older characters.
The intrepid sleuths of Richard Osman’s novel come to life in this enjoyable adaptation.
Set in a welcoming retirement community, it stars Helen Mirren as Elizabeth, a sharp-minded retiree who runs The Thursday Murder Club, a club of self-appointed detectives who tackle cold cases for fun.
Elizabeth is joined by Ron (Pierce Brosnan), Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley) and excited new recruit Joyce (Celia Imrie), whose background as a nurse comes in handy.
When an unexplained death happens near the home, they’re plunged into a fresh new case that becomes more complicated by the minute.
Whether or not you’ve read the book, it’s a fun set up with a terrific cast, and it’s refreshing to see a story that celebrates the talent and humour of older characters, who frequently outwit those younger than themselves.
Mirren and Imrie give particularly sparky performances, and there are game supporting turns from familiar faces including David Tennant, Jonathan Pryce, Naomi Ackie and Daniel Mays.
While there is plenty of chance to play detective, this is most rewarding when focusing on the central characters and their repartee.
Even when things get a bit preposterous, it’s a pleasure to spend time with them.
Click below for your chance to admire the starry skies over the Canaries on board Spirit of Discovery on a cruise worth £4,240pp.
The singer-songwriter on being diagnosed with ADHD at 70 and how she’s ageing on her own terms.
The TV star chats about health, her love of sprouts and why she’s been proven right about the detox diet.
This frank documentary about the comedian’s European tour reveals the realities of travelling in your 80s.
The baking queen on celebrating her 90th birthday, her daily indulgence and why her husband Paul thinks “cooking is boring”.
The presenter on being sacked by the BBC and why her views are 'career suicide'.
