“Appointment with Death” is a captivating murder mystery novel written by the renowned author Agatha Christie. First published in 1938, the book is set in the exotic backdrop of the Middle East, taking readers on a thrilling journey filled with suspense, intrigue, and unforgettable characters. In this article, we will delve into the intriguing plot of “Appointment with Death” and explore its various adaptations, from the big screen to the bookshelves of avid readers.
Book Summary of “Appointment with Death”
“Appointment with Death” introduces readers to the enigmatic detective Hercule Poirot, who becomes entangled in a complicated murder case during his vacation in Jerusalem. The story revolves around the tyrannical and manipulative Mrs. Boynton, a wealthy and domineering matriarch who holds her family captive with her oppressive control. When Mrs. Boynton is found dead under mysterious circumstances, Poirot must untangle a web of deceit, uncovering dark secrets and hidden motives to reveal the truth behind her untimely demise.
As Poirot delves deeper into the investigation, he encounters a wide array of intriguing characters, each with their own motives and secrets. From the troubled stepsons, Raymond and Carol, to the resentful stepdaughters, Ginevra and Lennox, and the sympathetic Dr. Sarah King, the list of suspects is long and varied. With his sharp wit and astute observations, Poirot slowly unravels the truth, leading to a shocking revelation that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
Movie Summary of “Appointment with Death”
In 1988, “Appointment with Death” was adapted into a feature film directed by Michael Winner. Staying true to the essence of the original story, the movie brings the captivating plot to life on the silver screen. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Middle Eastern landscapes, the film takes viewers on a visual journey, immersing them in the rich atmosphere of the story.
The movie stays faithful to the intriguing murder mystery, following Hercule Poirot as he investigates the death of Mrs. Boynton. The stellar cast brings the characters to life, with Peter Ustinov portraying Poirot’s signature charm and intelligence. The film captures the essence of Agatha Christie’s writing, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as the mystery unfolds.
When and Where Does the Story Take Place?
“Appointment with Death” is primarily set in Jerusalem during the late 1930s. Agatha Christie masterfully paints a vivid picture of the city, immersing readers in its rich culture, historical landmarks, and the tensions of the time. The exotic setting serves as the perfect backdrop for the intricate murder plot, adding an extra layer of intrigue and mystery.
Film Locations of “Appointment with Death”
The film adaptation of “Appointment with Death” takes viewers on a visual journey through stunning locations that bring the story to life. Some of the notable film locations include the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, known for its breathtaking rock-cut architecture, and the historic landmarks of Jerusalem, such as the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. These locations not only provide a visually stunning backdrop but also contribute to the overall atmosphere and authenticity of the film.
Who’s Who in “Appointment with Death”
“Appointment with Death” introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and motives. The key players in the story include:
- Hercule Poirot: The famous detective with his meticulous attention to detail and sharp intellect.
- Mrs. Boynton: The domineering and manipulative matriarch whose death sets the story in motion.
- Raymond and Carol Boynton: The troubled stepsons of Mrs. Boynton, each with their own secrets and motives.
- Ginevra and Lennox Boynton: The resentful stepdaughters who have suffered under Mrs. Boynton’s control.
- Dr. Sarah King: A sympathetic doctor who becomes entangled in the murder investigation.
Memorable Quotes from “Appointment with Death”
Throughout “Appointment with Death,” Agatha Christie weaves a tale filled with suspense and memorable lines. Here are a few quotes that capture the essence of the story:
- “There are moments, Japp, when I seriously wonder if you are not the greatest detective in the world.” – Hercule Poirot
- “A mother who doesn’t mother; a wife who doesn’t wife. That’s Mrs. Boynton for you.” – Raymond Boynton
- “Don’t you understand? She’s got all the money, and she enjoys being wicked.” – Ginevra Boynton
Soundtrack by Pino Donaggio: Biography and Other Works
The film adaptation of “Appointment with Death” features a captivating soundtrack composed by Pino Donaggio. Born in Italy, Donaggio is a renowned composer known for his memorable scores in various films. His collaboration with director Michael Winner brings an additional layer of suspense and tension to the movie, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Donaggio’s talent extends beyond “Appointment with Death.” He has composed scores for numerous other films, including Brian De Palma’s “Carrie” and “Dressed to Kill.” His ability to capture the essence of a story through music is evident in his diverse body of work, making him a highly respected composer in the industry.
Curiosities about “Appointment with Death”
“Appointment with Death” is not only a thrilling murder mystery but also a source of intriguing curiosities for fans of Agatha Christie’s works. Here are a few fascinating facts about the book and its adaptations:
- Agatha Christie wrote “Appointment with Death” in just two weeks while staying at the Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul.
- The character of Hercule Poirot was inspired by a Belgian refugee Agatha Christie encountered during World War I.
- The film adaptation of “Appointment with Death” received mixed reviews upon its release, but it remains a favorite among Agatha Christie fans for its faithful portrayal of the original story.
Tips for Cosplay and Dressing like Hercule Poirot and Lady Westholme
For fans who want to immerse themselves in the world of “Appointment with Death,” cosplay and dressing up as their favorite characters can be a fun and engaging activity. Here are some tips for cosplaying as the iconic detective Hercule Poirot and the elegant Lady Westholme:
- Hercule Poirot: Dress in a dapper three-piece suit, complete with a neatly groomed mustache and a signature bowler hat. Pay attention to small details, such as a pocket watch or a magnifying glass, to enhance the authenticity of the costume.
- Lady Westholme: Embrace the elegance of Lady Westholme by wearing a sophisticated evening gown, accessorized with pearls and a stylish hat. Opt for timeless hairstyles and a confident demeanor to embody the character’s grace and poise.
Agatha Christie: Biography and Other Notable Works
Agatha Christie, born in 1890, is widely regarded as one of the greatest crime fiction writers of all time. Her unique storytelling style and intricate plots have captivated readers for decades. Here is a brief overview of her life and some of her other notable works:
Agatha Christie was born in Devon, England, and developed a passion for writing from an early age. She published her first novel, “The Mysterious Affair at Styles,” in 1920, introducing the world to her iconic detective Hercule Poirot. Christie went on to write numerous bestselling novels, including “Murder on the Orient Express,” “And Then There Were None,” and “Death on the Nile,” solidifying her status as the Queen of Crime.
Agatha Christie’s 5 Best Works
- “Murder on the Orient Express” (1934): A classic whodunit set aboard the luxurious Orient Express, where Hercule Poirot must solve a murder committed on a moving train.
- “And Then There Were None” (1939): Ten strangers are lured to a secluded island, where they become the targets of a mysterious killer in this suspenseful masterpiece.
- “Death on the Nile” (1937): Poirot finds himself investigating a murder on a luxurious cruise ship along the Nile River, uncovering a web of lies, jealousy, and hidden motives.
- “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” (1926): A groundbreaking novel that defies conventions, this gripping story follows Poirot as he investigates the murder of a wealthy businessman in a seemingly idyllic village.
- “The A.B.C. Murders” (1936): Poirot is faced with a series of murders committed in alphabetical order, challenging his deductive skills to the limit in this thrilling tale.
5 Other Media Adaptations of Agatha Christie’s Works by Michael Winner
- “The Big Four” (1981): Michael Winner directed this TV adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel, featuring Hercule Poirot as he investigates a secretive criminal organization.
- “Death Wish” (1974): Winner’s most famous adaptation, this film stars Charles Bronson as a vigilante seeking justice for his family’s brutal assault, based on Brian Garfield’s novel.
- “The Sentinel” (1977): A supernatural horror film directed by Winner, based on the novel by Jeffrey Konvitz, follows a model who moves into an apartment building with a dark secret.
- “The Mechanic” (1972): Winner helmed this action thriller starring Charles Bronson as a professional assassin who takes on a young apprentice, based on a screenplay by Lewis John Carlino.
- “The Stone Killer” (1973): Winner directed this crime thriller starring Charles Bronson as a detective investigating a mafia war in Los Angeles, based on a screenplay by Gerald Wilson.
10 Similar Movies to “Appointment with Death”
If you’re a fan of the captivating mystery in “Appointment with Death” by Agatha Christie, you’ll be delighted to know that there are other similar movies that offer the same level of intrigue and suspense. Here are 10 must-watch films that will leave you on the edge of your seat:
- “Murder on the Orient Express” (1974): Another Agatha Christie adaptation, this film takes place on a luxurious train where a murder occurs, and it’s up to detective Hercule Poirot to solve the case.
- “And Then There Were None” (1945): Based on Christie’s bestselling novel, this movie follows ten strangers who find themselves trapped on an island, where they are mysteriously murdered one by one.
- “Gosford Park” (2001): Directed by Robert Altman, this murder mystery revolves around the guests of a wealthy host, where secrets, lies, and murder unfold during a weekend gathering.
- “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (2011): Although not based on an Agatha Christie novel, this Swedish crime thriller shares a similar dark and twisted plot, where a journalist and a hacker team up to solve a decades-old murder mystery.
- “The Maltese Falcon” (1941): This classic film-noir detective story is based on Dashiell Hammett’s novel and follows private detective Sam Spade as he gets entangled in a web of lies and deceit surrounding a priceless falcon statuette.
- “The Hound of the Baskervilles” (1939): This Sherlock Holmes adaptation brings to life Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective as he investigates a family curse and a demonic hound terrorizing the Baskerville family.
- “Chinatown” (1974): Set in 1930s Los Angeles, this neo-noir film follows private investigator Jake Gittes as he uncovers a web of corruption and murder while investigating an adultery case.
- “The Third Man” (1949): Directed by Carol Reed, this British film noir tells the story of an American writer who becomes entangled in a mystery revolving around his friend’s death in post-World War II Vienna.
- “Rear Window” (1954): Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, this suspenseful thriller follows a photographer who becomes a voyeur when he suspects his neighbor of committing a murder.
- “Vertigo” (1958): Another Hitchcock masterpiece, this psychological thriller delves into themes of obsession and deception as a retired detective investigates the mysterious activities of an old friend’s wife.
Book Club Discussion Questions for “Appointment with Death”
If you’re part of a book club and have chosen “Appointment with Death” as your next reading, here are some thought-provoking discussion questions to stimulate conversation and delve deeper into Agatha Christie’s intriguing plot:
- Who do you think was the most compelling character in the story? Why?
- Did you manage to solve the mystery before the big reveal? If not, what clues did you miss?
- How does the setting of the novel contribute to the overall atmosphere and tension?
- Were you surprised by any of the plot twists? Which one had the most impact on you?
- Agatha Christie is known for her intricate plots and clever misdirection. How successful do you think she was in “Appointment with Death”?
- The novel explores themes of greed, jealousy, and revenge. How do these themes play out in the story?
- Discuss the character development in the book. Did any of the characters undergo significant changes throughout the narrative?
- How does Agatha Christie’s writing style contribute to the suspense and mystery of the plot?
- Were you satisfied with the resolution of the story? Why or why not?
- “Appointment with Death” is part of a series featuring Hercule Poirot. How does this book compare to other Poirot mysteries you’ve read?
10 Similar Novels to “Appointment with Death”
If you enjoyed the gripping suspense of “Appointment with Death” and are hungry for more thrilling reads, here are 10 novels that share a similar vein of mystery and intrigue:
- “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier: This Gothic novel follows a young woman who becomes haunted by the memories of her husband’s first wife, Rebecca, and the secrets that surround her death.
- “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris: In this chilling psychological thriller, FBI trainee Clarice Starling is tasked with interviewing incarcerated serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter to help catch another elusive murderer known as Buffalo Bill.
- “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt: Set at a fictional New England college, this dark and atmospheric novel explores a close-knit group of students who become embroiled in a murder and its aftermath.
- “In the Woods” by Tana French: The first installment in the Dublin Murder Squad series, this psychological crime thriller follows detective Rob Ryan as he investigates the murder of a young girl in a small Irish town, while grappling with his own haunted past.
- “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins: This gripping psychological thriller revolves around Rachel, an alcoholic woman who becomes entangled in a missing persons investigation after witnessing something suspicious from her train window.
- “The Thirteenth Tale” by Diane Setterfield: A haunting and atmospheric novel, it follows a young biographer who is drawn into the mysterious life of reclusive author Vida Winter, as she unravels the dark secrets of her past.
- “The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Galbraith (aka J.K. Rowling): The first book in the Cormoran Strike series, it introduces private detective Cormoran Strike as he investigates the supposed suicide of a supermodel, delving into the glamorous and treacherous world of celebrity.
- “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown: This fast-paced thriller combines art, history, and religion as symbologist Robert Langdon races against time to solve a murder and unravel a secret society’s ancient mystery.
- “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn: A psychological thriller that explores the toxic dynamics of a failing marriage, when Amy Dunne mysteriously disappears on her wedding anniversary, suspicions turn towards her husband Nick.
- “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón: Set in post-war Barcelona, this atmospheric novel follows a young boy who becomes obsessed with a mysterious author and attempts to unravel the secrets surrounding his books.
Parent Guide for “Appointment with Death”
As a parent, you may be wondering if “Appointment with Death” is appropriate for your teenage children. It’s essential to consider the content and themes of the book before deciding if it’s suitable.
“Appointment with Death” is a murder mystery novel that contains elements of violence and suspense, which may not be suitable for younger readers. The plot revolves around a murder that takes place during a family vacation, and the subsequent investigation by detective Hercule Poirot. While the book doesn’t contain explicit gore or excessive violence, it does involve discussions of death and the motives behind the crime.
Before allowing your teenager to read “Appointment with Death,” it’s advisable to read the book yourself or consult reviews to ensure it aligns with your family’s values and your child’s maturity level. Additionally, discussing the book’s themes and content with your teenager can help them process any challenging or disturbing elements they may encounter while reading.
Ultimately, it’s up to you as a parent to make an informed decision about whether “Appointment with Death” is appropriate for your child, taking into consideration their age, reading preferences, and sensitivity to certain themes.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for Agatha Christie Fans
If you’re a devoted Agatha Christie fan or have a loved one who is, you’ll appreciate this buying guide and gift ideas to enhance the reading experience and pay homage to the Queen of Crime:
- Agatha Christie Box Set: Treat yourself or your loved one to a complete collection of Agatha Christie’s works, featuring all the iconic Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple mysteries, as well as standalone novels and short stories.
- “Appointment with Death” Deluxe Edition: For a special edition of the book that stands out on your bookshelf, consider a beautifully designed hardcover or leather-bound edition of “Appointment with Death.”
- Agatha Christie-themed Bookmarks: Keep your place in the pages of Christie’s mysteries with a set of bookmarks featuring quotes, characters, or iconic book cover designs.
- Agatha Christie-inspired Clothing: Show off your love for Agatha Christie with t-shirts, hoodies, or tote bags that feature quotes, book covers, or illustrations related to her works.
- Mystery-Themed Board Games: Spend an evening with friends or family solving mysteries with board games like “Clue” or “Mysterium,” which capture the essence of Agatha Christie’s suspenseful storytelling.
- Agatha Christie Biography: Gain insight into the life and career of Agatha Christie with a well-researched biography that explores her inspirations, writing process, and the impact she had on the mystery genre.
- Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple Figurine: Add a touch of whimsy to your bookshelf with a figurine or collectible representing Agatha Christie’s iconic detectives, Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple.
- “Murder Mystery” Dinner Party Game: Host a thrilling dinner party with a murder mystery game that allows you and your guests to step into the shoes of detectives and suspects, solving a fictional crime while enjoying a delicious meal.
- Agatha Christie-inspired Cookbook: Delve into the culinary world of Agatha Christie’s mysteries with a cookbook that features recipes inspired by the food and drinks mentioned in her novels.
- Agatha Christie-themed Travel Guide: Embark on a literary journey to the locations that inspired Agatha Christie’s settings with a travel guide that explores the real-world places behind her fictional tales.
Whether you’re treating yourself or looking for the perfect gift for an Agatha Christie fan, these buying guide and gift ideas are sure to delight any mystery lover.
Conclusion
“Appointment with Death” by Agatha Christie is a captivating murder mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its intriguing plot and well-crafted characters, the book has captured the imaginations of many readers over the years. If you’re a fan of Christie’s works, be sure to check out the list of similar movies and novels to further indulge in the world of mystery and suspense. And if you’re looking to enhance your Agatha Christie experience or find the perfect gift for a fellow fan, our buying guide and gift ideas will help you navigate the vast array of options available. Happy reading and exploring the intriguing world of Agatha Christie!
