Whether you have enjoyed Kenneth Branagh‘s recent adaptations of Agatha Christie’s works or not, it seems they are here to stay. However, this time, the next reimagination of the beloved writer will come from Netflix, not the “Belfast” actor.
A few months ago, it was announced that “The Seven Dials Mystery”, the novel by Christie that revisits characters from “The Secret of Chimneys”, will be adapted into a series. This won’t mark the first adaptation, as a movie directed by Tony Wharmby was released in 1981.
The new show will be brought to life by “The Crown” producer Suzanne Mackie, with the writing helmed by Chris Chibnall, known for “Broadchurch”, and direction by Chris Sweeney, noted for his work on “The Tourist” with Jamie Dornan.
Who will be the cast of ‘The Seven Dials Mystery’?
For now, only three names have been revealed for the cast. Leading the ensemble is Mia McKenna-Bruce, recognized for her role as Linda in “Last Train to Christmas.” She is set to portray Lady Eileen “Bundle” Brent, a character deeply entangled in unraveling a murder mystery at her family’s estate, while also uncovering a clandestine secret society.
Next, we have two actors who need no introduction. Helena Bonham Carter will grace the screen as Lady Caterham, the absent-minded mother of Lady Eileen. While Lady Caterham may not have a central role in the novel, it’s probable that the screenwriter will adapt the story to provide her character with a more prominent voice.
On the other hand, Martin Freeman joins the cast as Superintendent Battle . Tasked with investigating a series of mysterious events and murders, he is a recurring character in Agatha Christie’s crime-solving repertoire . Unlike her more flamboyant detectives like Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple , the amateur investigator is characterized by his methodical approach to solving crimes.
What will ‘The Seven Dials Mystery’ be about?
Building on the background of “The Secret of Chimneys”, “The Seven Dials Mystery” is set on 1925. It showcases a group of young men playing a prank on their friend Gerry Wade by placing seven alarm clocks in his room, set to go off one after another.
“The Seven Dials Mystery (1981)”. (Source: IMDb)
However, the joke takes a dark turn when Gerry is found dead the next morning, apparently having died in his sleep. In typical Agatha Christie fashion, nothing is as it seems, and suspicion arises when one of the alarm clocks goes missing.
Lady Eileen “Bundle” Brent and Superintendent Battle join forces to uncover the mystery and catch the killer, risking their own lives as they discover that the culprit is far more dangerous than they had imagined.
When will ‘The Seven Dials Mystery’ be released on Netflix?
Although no specific release date has been announced for “The Seven Dials Mystery”, we can estimate its premiere based on its production timeline which, according to Variety, is set to begin this summer.
If filming starts and wraps up between June and September, the series could potentially be released in December this year or in the first months of 2025. The latter seems more likely, given Netflix’s already packed schedule for the second half of the year.
The streamer’s upcoming lineup includes titles such as “Heartstopper” Season 3, the second part of “That ’90s Show“, “Arcane” Season 2, “Cobra Kai” Season 6 Part 2, and the highly anticipated continuation of “Squid Game”, which will likely dominate all the attention of the entertainment company towards the year’s end.
