Death on the Nile is similar to its predecessor. The mystery mechanics are superb (expected from Agatha Christie), but the execution feels underwhelming. All the pieces are in place: the setting is fun, the characters are diverse, and the reveal is both earned and surprising. However, it all falls a bit flat because time is mismanaged. Fundamentally, Gadot and Hammer (the main additions) are stiff and stale, dampening the film's momentum. Meanwhile, the newcomers who are interesting (Okonedo, Mackey, and Brand) never get enough time to shine. Branagh is clearly an engaged protagonist, but the script is log-jammed around him.
Technically, Death on the Nile is hit and miss. The symbolic silence is effective, the cinematography utilizes movement and composition, and the production design sells the time period. However, the highlights mostly stop there. The editing successfully introduces the mystery, yet drags in the first act. The music is fun during band performances, but is otherwise forgettable. The cast is recognizable but hardly optimized. Lastly, there's simply too much CGI. It's distracting, cheapens the extravagant location, and undercuts the era. Overall, Death on the Nile means well but contains too many missteps to land as a universal success.
Writing: 6/10
Direction: 7/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 7/10
Editing: 7/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 7/10
Effects: 6/10
Overall Score: 7.1/10
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