Starring Peter Ustinov 

Don’t bother watching the 2022 remake, this 1978 version is the gold standard of Death on the Nile movies. The cast alone makes this movie worth watching. Alongside Peter Ustinov as Hercule Poirot, the dazzling cast includes Dame Maggie Smith, Bette Davis, Dame Angela Lansbury, Mia Farrow, Olivia Hussey, Bond Girl Lois Chiles, David Niven, Jack Warden, George Kennedy, and more. 

Linnet Ridgeway, a British heiress, falls in love with and marries the penniless Simon Doyle. It was love at first sight, and to celebrate, they go on a honeymoon to Egypt – the exotic travel destination of the 1930’s rich and famous. But onboard their Nile River cruise, they are plagued by the animosity of their fellow travellers – including Simon’s vindictive ex-fiancee. When the hatred boils over, Linnet is left dead – and almost everyone has a means and motive to kill her. But which of the colorful characters pulled the trigger? Enter Hercule Poirot.

Pros: When you have this many good actors in a movie, you know you’re in for some five star entertainment. The acting is impeccable, and, despite the dark topic, there’s enough humor to keep you in stitches. While no one can write a mystery like Agatha Christie, her fame, I think, isn’t just due to clever and twisted tricks, but due to her sly analysis of society. This movie is no exception, and with this stellar cast, you get a ringside seat to timeless virtues and vices of mankind.

Cons: While there aren’t any cons, in my opinion, it’s not exactly a family friendly movie. There is some language, scantily-clad women, and, of course, murder. However, it’s a lot cleaner than the 2022 version!

Bottom Line: A five star mystery with a five star cast.