The Thursday Murder Club – Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan headline the mystery adaptation

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.