Cast
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Peter Ustinov
as Hercule Poirot
James Mason
as Odell Gardener
Sylvia Miles
as Myra Gardener
Roddy McDowall
as Rex Brewster
Maggie Smith
as Daphne Castle
Jane Birkin
as Christine Redfern
Nicholas Clay
as Patrick Redfern
Diana Rigg
as Arlena Stuart Marshall
Denis Quilley
as Kenneth Marshall
Colin Blakely
as Horace Blatt
Emily Hone
as Linda Marshall
Paul Antrim
as Police Inspector
Cyril Conway
as Police Surgeon
John Alderson
as Police Sergeant
Richard Vernon
as Flewitt
Crew
Director
- Guy Hamilton
Writer
- Barry Sandler
Producer
- John Brabourne
- Richard Goodwin
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Guy Hamilton does wonders here with this fairly far-fetched Agatha Christie story about the murder of an actress - a rather unlikeable creation of Diana Rigg - on an idyllic if somewhat ramshackle island paradise run by Maggie Smith. Peter Ustinov is on hand, luckily, to exercise his little grey cells and establish who did what to whom, and why! James Mason, Sylvia Miles and Roddy McDowall head the supporting list of suspects as "Monsieur Poirot" tries to suss it all out. It is quite an enjoyable affair with some attractive scenery and a few fun sub-plots to the main theme, but it doesn't really compare so well to "Death on the Nile" or "Murder on the Orient Express".
Jun 8, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Evil Under the Sun examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Guy Hamilton brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1982, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Evil Under the Sun took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 245 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Evil Under the Sun shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Metropolis, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Evil Under the Sun offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Apocalypse Now and 2001: A Space Odyssey explore similar territory, Evil Under the Sun stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 5, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 57m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $6,110,804
Where to Watch
