A Critical Look at the BBC’s Adaptation of Agatha Christie’s ‘Towards Zero’
While many may rave about the BBC’s recent adaptations of Agatha Christie’s works, I find myself in the minority, not entirely enamored with their interpretation. In their quest to extract Dame Agatha from the realm of cozy crime and inject a darker, more contemporary flavor, it feels as if they have swung the pendulum too far. However, this weekend’s new offering, Towards Zero, strikes a commendable balance between elegance and intensity. With its narrative of affluence unraveling amidst a picturesque backdrop, it leans more towards The White Lotus than the usual Death in Paradise.
Based on Christie’s somewhat obscure 1944 whodunit (at least in my view), this three-part adaptation features a stellar ensemble cast, including the illustrious Anjelica Huston, Clarke Peters from The Wire, and Matthew Rhys of The Americans. Set in the glamorous 1930s, the production dazzles with its stunning visuals, showcasing everything from the sparkling Devon coastlines and elegant cocktail dresses to the chic Art Deco interiors. The driving score evokes a Hitchcockian atmosphere, adding a layer of suspense to the narrative.
In a refreshing twist for a murder mystery, the story does not commence with a body. Instead, we are introduced to the plot through Clarke Peters, who portrays lawyer Frederick Treves. He delivers a thought-provoking prologue: “I enjoy a good detective story, but they often begin at the wrong point, with a murder. The real story starts much earlier.”
Towards Zero opens with a high-profile divorce case, where the charming tennis player, Nevile Strange (played by Oliver Jackson-Cohen), faces allegations of adultery from his wife, Audrey (Ella Lily Hyland). This gripping courtroom scene sets the stage for multiple suspects, including Nevile’s mistress and future spouse, Kay (Mimi Keene), the aforementioned Treves, and a mysterious valet who cleverly secures a position in Nevile’s household.
Following this engaging introduction, the narrative transports us to Gull’s Point, the opulent Devon estate of Nevile’s aunt, the ailing Lady Tressilian (Huston). Displeased with Nevile’s plan to invite both his ex-wife Audrey and his current wife Kay for his traditional August visit, Lady Tressilian’s disapproval raises questions about the wisdom of this unusual arrangement—especially given the tension following such a contentious divorce.
Despite her limited physical presence, Huston delivers an imperious performance that feels tailor-made for the role, reminiscent of the late Dame Maggie Smith’s iconic portrayals. The atmosphere evokes a hint of Downton Abbey, complete with a nurturing cook and Lady Tressilian’s companion, Mary Aldin (Anjana Vasan). Unbeknownst to all, Mary has been secretly exchanging letters with Nevile’s disgraced cousin, Thomas Royde (Jack Farthing), who harbors intentions to return to Gull’s Point for reasons that remain shrouded in mystery.
As with any good detective story, a detective is essential; however, Towards Zero offers an unconventional take. Inspector Leach (Rhys) is portrayed as a troubled alcoholic, seemingly more invested in his whiskey bottle than in the fireworks disrupting Lady Tressilian’s rest. The first episode culminates not in a murder but with an apparent suicide, as Leach plunges off a cliff. Given Rhys’s prominent role, we might assume he will survive to pursue the investigation further.
Screenwriter Rachel Bennette crafts a script that is both brisk and coherent, avoiding the temptation to force in contemporary issues, even though the producers claim that David and Victoria Beckham inspired the public’s fascination with a sportsman’s tumultuous marriage.
Towards Zero emerges as a sumptuous addition to the crowded landscape of murder mysteries, even if, at this early stage, the central question remains: who will be the unfortunate victim?
‘Towards Zero’ continues next Sunday at 9pm on BBC One
