Murder on The Orient Express is one of crime author Agatha Christie’s most famous novels, hinged upon one of her most famous creations, detective Hercule Poirot.

Isn’t justice best delivered at our discretion?

Aboard a train from Istanbul to Paris, Poirot finds himself in the middle of the spectacular murder of a hated underworld figure. Every passenger has a rock-solid alibi, but the Belgian sleuth soon realises there are more things connecting them than meets the eye.

When the truth is finally revealed, the film – like Christie’s original novel – actually wonders whether we have the right to judge and whether the villain is really evil. Even though a murder has been committed. But can’t morality be dependent upon situations and personal assessment? Isn’t justice best delivered at our discretion?

Murder on the Orient Express was first published in 1934 but the questions inflamed by its finale do feel crafted for how many in the 21st Century approach the eternal issues of right, wrong and justice.

Hats off to director and star Kenneth Branagh. The art direction of Murder on the Orient Express is gorgeous and the film is simply crammed with A-list actors – Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Judi Dench, Willem Defoe, to name just a few. Plus, Brannagh wears the most outrageous moustache ever as the super-smart sleuth Poirot.

Sadly, some extra ‘action’ scenes have been added to the storyline which seem a bit out of place. Also, the pace is so fast moving you might find it hard to follow the case. Best to sit back, try to get comfortable and enjoy the ride. And get ready for the final destination and how its moral conundrum should challenge what we base our moral codes upon.