The world of screen is no stranger to the works of Agatha Christie. From large-scale blockbusters to serial dramas, the mystery novelist’s works have been framed in more than one iteration, allowing new audiences to enjoy the thrill of classic “whodunnits” and live in their amateur sleuth era. Now, Netflix is the latest platform to explore another of Christie’s beloved novels, as Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials releases on the site on 15 January.
Helmed by Broadchurch and Doctor Who writer Chris Chibnall, Seven Dials centres its mystery amidst the lavish antics of the Roaring Twenties, where the morning after the night before, Lady Eileen “Bundle” Brent (Mia McKenna-Bruce) finds more than just a hangover to contend with in her stately home. Soon, Bundle discovers a mystery larger than she expects, unveiling details much larger than she intends.
On the surface, Seven Dials does exactly as Christie’s original intended. It’s a lighthearted mystery that is easy to digest, with just enough wit to give a chuckle and loose threads to keep audiences guessing until the end. There are moments of raw emotion, but not so much that it rears into the overdramatic. It’s a perfect afternoon watch for those looking for a mystery to solve without much duress, but it’s nothing much more than that.
This being said, the production value of this latest Christie adaptation can certainly not be ignored. The cinematography is picturesque, with circles and sevens often being prevalent in the show’s imagery – a cunning detail that only adds more to the tale. Similarly, the costuming of the show is delightful, with many of Bundle’s outfits being a picture-perfect addition to the series. This, combined with the warm, sepia tones that emit a softness across the drama, creates a welcome atmosphere that settles one into the case, rather than unsettles from unwarranted intensity.
However, this is also one of Seven Dials’ downfalls. Its lightheartedness is certainly a great fit for many who only wish for easy viewing, yet its mystery is often predictable and easily guessable. Though some twists are easier to guess than others, with later twists having a bigger impact, those looking for a shocking turn of events to really dig their teeth into may find themselves disappointed.
In spite of this, McKenna-Bruce delivers yet another excellent performance. Bundle’s soft, charismatic charm oozes throughout the series, making her a magnetic and pleasant presence for the on-screen mystery. Yet, it is in Bundle’s sharper or more emotional moments that McKenna-Bruce delivers her best work. Her character’s softer nature is never forgotten, but her burning desire for more drives the series forward in the best and most intriguing way possible.
Helena Bonham-Carter and Martin Freeman are among some of the characters that bring this mystery classic to life, with Bonham-Carter in particular being an entertaining and magical presence on-screen. Her chemistry with McKenna-Bruce is delightful and one that, despite only being a small fraction of the story, brings out some of the best scenes of the series. Freeman also brings a classic sense of hardened Britishness to the story, one very much necessary for a delightfully English tale. However, much like many of the series’ eccentric cast members, they do not have as much time to really show and say much more.
For those after a quick mystery to dig their teeth into, Seven Dials is perfect. It is witty, beautifully arranged, and leaves enough loose threads for one to keep the classic “whodunnit” a mystery until the end. However, if you’re looking for something that truly leaves your jaw on the floor, then perhaps something else would be a better fit.
3 out 3 episodes were available to view.
Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials is currently available to stream on Netflix.
