And Then There Were None is a 2015 mini-series and an adaptation of Agatha Christie’s classic novel. The mini-series follows directly in suit with the novel, as a group of strangers is summoned to an isolated island, where they believe they’ll be meeting someone special. Each of the character has his or her own terrible backstory, which slowly unravels over the course of 3 episodes. Vera Claythorne (Maeve Dermody) was accused of allowing a young boy to drown. Detective Sergeant William Blore (Burn Gorman) is targeted for murdering a prisoner.
We also have General John MacArthur (Sam Neill), who potentially killed one of the soldiers under his supervision. Doctor Edward Armstrong (Toby Stephens) is believed to have killed a female patient, while Philip Lombard (Aidan Turner) is charged with the death of 21 East African tribesmen. Judge Lawrence Wargrave (Charles Dance) is notorious for sending defendants to the rope and is believed to have ordered the execution of an innocent man. Initially, each of the characters pleads their innocence, aside from Lombard and Anthony Marston (Douglas Booth), who is responsible for the deaths of two young children. We know this isn’t true and the truth slowly, but surely, works it way to the surface. As with the novel, the group is transported to the island and they slowly begin dying off one by one.
It has truly been a long time, since I read the novel in school. However, from what I can remember, the story translates fairly identically across the mediums. The ending is significantly different though. This helps to ensure that even those, who’ve already experienced the book, will be encouraged to relive the tale once more. So, how is it? There is truly a lot to like about BBC’s And Then There Were None. The network didn’t use talent sparingly. The cast, which includes Sam Neill, Aidan Turner, Burn Gorman, Toby Stephens, and Charles Dance is outstanding. The Australian actress, Maeve Dermody, may be somewhat of a newcomer, but she does a fabulous job, as well.
The story unfolds well, although it is very slow. Despite watching it all happen in the past, the series remains as mysterious and gripping as ever. Although bits and pieces are predictable, the ending was a pleasant surprise and felt very fulfilling. The mini-series covers a great deal over the course of three episode and never feels rushed. Of course, the greenish gray scenery of the island is very fitting and immensely creepy. All in all, I enjoyed the series. My only negative is that it is somewhat slow, but that gives you time to think and attempt to solve the puzzle on your own. A 7.5 out of 10 is deserved.
Jay Skelton is a fan of all television shows and movies. He tries his best to keep up with the latest foreign television shows and movies. Jay loves skinny dipping in the dark too.
I think this could have been a two hour production, instead of a three hour one. Otherwise, I thought this was well done.
Agreed. It did feel a bit slow and sluggish in spots. Enjoyed it nonetheless.