I watched Murder by Death and I liked it. 3.5/5
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Murder by Death is a 1976 comedy-mystery film directed by Robert Moore and written by Neil Simon. The movie is a parody of classic detective novels and features an all-star cast, including Peter Falk, David Niven, Peter Sellers, Maggie Smith, and Truman Capote.
The plot centers around a group of famous detectives who are invited to a mysterious mansion by a wealthy eccentric named Lionel Twain. Twain claims that he will commit the perfect murder and challenges the detectives to solve the crime. As the night progresses, the detectives are led through a series of twists and turns as they try to solve the mystery.
One of the strengths of Murder by Death is its talented cast. Each actor brings their own unique style to their respective characters, making them both memorable and entertaining. Peter Falk stands out as the Sam Spade-inspired detective, while Maggie Smith shines as the Miss Marple-inspired character. Peter Sellers is also particularly funny as the Charlie Chan-inspired detective, using exaggerated stereotypes to great effect.
The film’s humor is another standout feature. The movie is filled with witty one-liners, clever wordplay, and hilarious physical comedy. The humor is often absurd and over-the-top, but it never feels forced or out of place. The film’s self-awareness and parody of classic detective tropes add to the humor and make the movie an enjoyable and entertaining watch.
The movie’s production design is also impressive. The mansion where the film takes place is an elaborate and detailed set, filled with hidden passageways and secret rooms. The costumes and props are also top-notch, capturing the essence of classic detective novels while adding a humorous twist.
However, the movie does have its flaws. The pacing can be slow at times, with some scenes dragging on longer than necessary. Additionally, the multiple twists and turns in the plot can be confusing and may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied.
Overall, Murder by Death is a fun and entertaining movie that offers a fresh take on classic detective novels. The talented cast, clever humor, and intricate production design make for a movie that is both funny and visually appealing. While it may not be a perfect film, it’s a classic that is well worth watching for fans of both comedies and mysteries.
In conclusion, I would give Murder by Death an 8 out of 10 rating. The film’s talented cast, clever humor, and intricate production design make for an enjoyable and memorable movie-watching experience. While it may not be a perfect film, it’s a classic that is well worth revisiting for anyone who enjoys a good parody or mystery.