Watch Agatha Christie's The Mirror Crack'd

Agatha Christie's The Mirror Crack'd from 1980 is a British-American mystery film directed by Guy Hamilton and featuring an all-star cast including Angela Lansbury, Tony Curtis, Rock Hudson, and Elizabeth Taylor. The film is based on Christie's 1962 novel, The Mirror Crack'd from Side to Side, and is set in the 1950s in the fictional English village of St. Mary Mead.

The story follows Miss Marple (played by Lansbury), a sharp-witted and observant elderly woman, who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation when a famous Hollywood actress, Marina Gregg (Taylor), comes to town to make a film. Marina's presence causes a stir among the village residents, especially when she throws a party at Gossington Hall, the home of Heather Babcock (Margaret Courtenay), a rich widow who has always been jealous of Marina's success.

During the party, Heather suddenly collapses and dies after drinking a cocktail that was meant for Marina. It becomes clear that Heather was actually the intended victim and that someone is out to kill Marina. Miss Marple and the local police are left to untangle a web of clues and motives to uncover the killer's identity before they strike again.

As the investigation progresses, Miss Marple discovers that many of the inhabitants of St. Mary Mead have secrets that they are trying to keep hidden. She also learns about Marina's troubled past, including a tragic accident on a film set that left her scarred both physically and emotionally. The more Miss Marple learns, the more she realizes that nothing is as it seems in this idyllic rural village.

The film features strong performances from the entire cast, especially Lansbury in the lead role. She embodies Miss Marple's intelligence, wit, and charm, making her the perfect detective to solve this complex mystery. Taylor also delivers a memorable performance as Marina, balancing her character's superficial charm with a deep sadness and vulnerability.

The film is visually stunning, with gorgeous landscapes and elaborate sets that transport the viewer back to the golden age of Hollywood. The glamour and excess of the film industry are contrasted with the quiet, understated beauty of the English countryside, mirroring the different worlds that Marina and the residents of St. Mary Mead inhabit.

The Mirror Crack'd is a classic whodunit that keeps the viewer guessing until the very end. The clues are plentiful, but the solution is elusive until Miss Marple finally unravels the mystery. The film also touches on themes of jealousy, fame, and the toll that personal demons can take on a person, making it both a suspenseful thriller and a poignant exploration of human nature.

Overall, Agatha Christie's The Mirror Crack'd from 1980 is a must-see for fans of mystery and suspense. Its all-star cast, stunning visuals, and engrossing plot make for a captivating cinematic experience that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.