Book Vs Film: Seven Dials Mystery Agatha Christie

 

I am sure everyone has been eagerly awaiting the Netflix adaptation of The Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie, as I was. I read my very first Christie novel last year with my friend and was shocked by how much I enjoyed it. I then decided I needed to read some more of her fantastic detective novels. 

When I heard that The Seven Dials Mystery was being adapted by Netflix, I decided that will be my next Christie read. I devoured the book in a week. Although at first I felt this story began a little slow, it soon picked up. Secret societies, funny characters and a headstrong female lead hunting out a mystery - what a ride. 

Of course, I had my alerts turned on for the Netflix miniseries, so as soon as it was released, I raced home from work to watch it. 

I was slightly disappointed, but I will explain all in my discussion below as I take you through some of the major differences between the novel and the film. SPOILERS AHEAD

Character Differences

Most likely due to the time the novel was written, 1929, the inventor was German (Herr Eberhard), whereas this modern adaptation features Dr. Cyril Matip. There are also cutaways to members of the Secret Seven Society being followed through Spain, which also never occurred in the novel. I had no problem with this particular change as there were some slightly uncomfortable comments about "head shape" and race in the original novel, which made me squirm. 

Another notable difference I felt was Superintendent Battle. In the book, he is somewhat of a comical yet serious detective. I found the scene at the party quite funny, where he was trying to hide in plain sight. Yet in the miniseries, I found Martin Freeman's portrayal of him slightly too serious. Also, in the Netflix adaptation, I felt he did not get enough screen time in comparison to the novel. 

Romance Removed

Netflix removing the romance from an adaptation? I was very surprised. I had quite enjoyed the building romance between Bill & Bundle from friends to lovers. I loved how Bundle often found him slightly irritating in a puppy-dog sort of way, but then realised her true feelings for him. The scene where she became jealous of his fawning over the countess made me laugh. 

I found it very interesting that they removed the romance. Perhaps they felt a modern Christie audience would rather focus on the thrilling mystery aspect? Who knows. 

Secret Society Changes

The makeup of the Secret Seven society changes in the adaptation. In the novel, Gerry Wade was an original member of the Secret Seven. Hence why he mentioned them in the letter to his sister. He was a key player at their table. 

In the adaptation, it was revealed that Bundle's father was a member, and his position was then offered to her by Superintendent Battle. I was confused by this change as I felt the original dynamic gave a more cohesive flow to the plot and the characters' connection to it. 

Lord / Lady Caterham 

Although I love Helena Bonham Carter, I felt the gender swapping of Lord Caterham to Lady Caterham, and the direction of this character, was completely changed from the original text. 

I really enjoyed Lord Caterham's character in the novel - he was very funny, a total homebody and just content in chilling in his house. I loved the part when he complained that people dying in his house was an inconvenience to him. In the change of Lord Caterham to Lady Caterham, I felt the character was vastly changed. 

Lady Caterham is much more serious. Her reveal to be central to the conspiracy shocked me, and not in a good way. I felt it really just drove the last nail into the character for me, which was a huge disappointment. 

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Overall, I enjoyed the novel more than the adaptation. I can understand the potential challenges that come from adapting a novel that is almost 100 years old, but I felt there was just a little too much change in characters and tone. 

All in all, I would rate the film 2.5/5 and the novel 3.5/5. 

What is your favourite Christie adaptation or novel? Please let me know so I can continue my education in this wonderful world of mystery!