By Mia Wilson 
When we talk about classic mysteries — the kind that keeps you second-guessing everyone until the very end — Murder on the Orient Express is practically the gold standard.
Agatha Christie’s iconic novel is a cornerstone of detective fiction, and naturally, it’s been adapted several times for the big screen.
But that brings us to the big question every suspense fan eventually asks:
Which is better — the book or the movie?
Today we hop aboard this train full of secrets to compare the two most popular versions: the original 1934 novel and the 2017 film directed by Kenneth Branagh.
Let’s look at what each version brings to the table — and figure out which one pulls ahead.
🚂 The Story: A Timeless Classic
The premise is simple yet brilliant. Hercule Poirot, Agatha Christie’s legendary Belgian detective, boards the luxurious Orient Express. During the journey, a man is murdered in a locked cabin.
The train is stuck in a snowstorm. The killer is on board.
What follows is a meticulous investigation filled with interviews, secrets, red herrings — and one of the most famous endings in mystery literature.
Both versions stick to this structure, but the experience is very different depending on how you approach the story.
📖 The Book: Elegance, Logic, and Psychological Suspense
Published in 1934, the book is one of Christie’s most celebrated works — and for good reason.
The pacing is perfect, the dialogue is sharp, and Poirot’s deductive reasoning is in top form.
Why the book works so well:
- Pure logic at play: You follow every step of Poirot’s thought process. There’s no action fluff — just clever deduction at its finest.
- Depth in characters: Despite a large cast, Christie gives each suspect distinct personalities and motivations.
- Tense, confined atmosphere: The snowbound train creates a setting that’s both claustrophobic and suspenseful.
It’s a quick, gripping read with a finale that still shocks — even if you know it’s coming.
🎬 The 2017 Movie: Stylish, Star-Studded, and Flashier
Directed by and starring Kenneth Branagh (as Poirot), the 2017 film attempts to modernize the classic while keeping its core mystery intact.
And while it succeeds in many ways, it also makes a few controversial choices.
What works in the movie:
- Stunning visuals: From the snowy landscapes to the intricate train interiors, the movie is a visual treat.
- All-star cast: Michelle Pfeiffer, Johnny Depp, Judi Dench, Penélope Cruz — the talent here is undeniable.
- A more emotional Poirot: The film adds a more human side to Poirot, giving him depth and even personal conflict. Some love it, some don’t.
However, there are some liberties that divided fans:
- Action sequences that didn’t exist in the book — including a rooftop chase;
- Added subplots that shift the tone;
- A Poirot who feels a bit too theatrical (and let’s talk about that massive mustache…).
In the end, the movie aims to blend classic mystery with a modern blockbuster feel. It’s fun to watch — but loses some of the subtlety of the original.
⚖️ So… Which Is Better?
That really depends on what kind of mystery you enjoy.
- If you love carefully constructed puzzles, deep character work, and a slow-burning whodunit, the book is the clear winner.
- If you’re looking for something cinematic, dramatic, and visually polished, the movie delivers on entertainment — even if it takes a few creative detours.
But let’s be honest: nothing quite matches the brilliance of the book.
Reading Murder on the Orient Express is stepping into the heart of classic detective fiction, and the ending is still one of the smartest twists ever written.
📝 Is It Worth Watching the Movie After Reading the Book?
Absolutely! Even with its changes, the film is a gorgeous homage to Christie’s world.
In fact, knowing the book in advance makes the viewing even more interesting — you’ll catch every tweak, every nod, and every choice made by the filmmakers.
And if you’re hooked after both, there’s always the 1974 version — a more traditional take that’s also worth a watch.
So what about you? Have you read the book, watched the movie, or both? Which one left a stronger impression?
Let us know in the comments — but no spoilers, please! 😉📚🎥