The 4th season of "Miss Marple" started off very well, but got progressively worse as the episodes went by. "They Do It with Mirrors" has never been one of my favorite Christie novels, but I still find the book a decent read. This episode one the other hand is not as good as the book. It's not bad, just average in the long run.
Let's start with the good aspects of this entry.
. The production values of the episode are great. Everything looks good and the music fits the scenery. The acting's mostly fine with the exception of Joan Collins, who is not bad, but her accent felt like a "hit and miss". Emma Griffiths, Sarah Smart, Penelope Wilton are very enjoyable, but Elliot Cowan and Brian Cox give the most interesting performances out of the guest stars. Julia McKenzie continues to be a fantastic Miss Marple, she is easy to warm to and full of charm.
. The story has its moments. There are some good twists, touching moments, especially towards the end with Lewis turning out to be the killer, that did work.
But....
. The direction by Andy Wilson could have been a lot more focused. The beginning of this episode is agreed quite poorly done.
. The mystery is not that well paced. The story got a bit dull about 40 minutes and the characters, dialogue not as witty enough to keep one interested.
Overall, an okay episode.
5/10 HK.
Let's start with the good aspects of this entry.
. The production values of the episode are great. Everything looks good and the music fits the scenery. The acting's mostly fine with the exception of Joan Collins, who is not bad, but her accent felt like a "hit and miss". Emma Griffiths, Sarah Smart, Penelope Wilton are very enjoyable, but Elliot Cowan and Brian Cox give the most interesting performances out of the guest stars. Julia McKenzie continues to be a fantastic Miss Marple, she is easy to warm to and full of charm.
. The story has its moments. There are some good twists, touching moments, especially towards the end with Lewis turning out to be the killer, that did work.
But....
. The direction by Andy Wilson could have been a lot more focused. The beginning of this episode is agreed quite poorly done.
. The mystery is not that well paced. The story got a bit dull about 40 minutes and the characters, dialogue not as witty enough to keep one interested.
Overall, an okay episode.
5/10 HK.