Plot: What’s it about?
This is the third volume in Acorn Media’s series of Poirot releases, though a number of feature length mysteries have also been issued. In their Collector’s Sets however, we’re treated to a trio of Poirot’s shorter adventures, with each one running about fifty minutes. This means less time for extensive mystery elements, but as some of Poirot’s feature length mysteries have been drawn out and thin, these fifty minute episodes aren’t compressed. No, all the suspense and clues are tucked nicely into a shorter running time and it works out quite well, though as with any series, some episodes are better than others. As penned by Agatha Christie, Poirot’s mysteries are usually delightful and thanks to star David Suchet, well performed. Below is a list of the included episodes, as well as a brief synopsis for each one.
1. The Kidnapped Prime Minister- Although he has handled numerous important cases, Poirot finds himself in perhaps his most important one to date. The case is high profile and the stakes are even higher, as the prime minister has been kidnapped. With the pressure building and time running out, can Poirot put together the clues and solve the case, or will the prime minister be left in the hands of brutal criminals?
2. The Adventure of the Western Star- As often as he has been put up against criminal minds, Poirot has mastered the tactics of his enemies. In the process, he is better able to get inside the criminal mind, understand how it works, then use that knowledge to get one step ahead of the crook, which almost always works. But when Poirot has to track down a skilled jewel thief, which means he will have to be sneakier and more cunning than a professional thief.
3. How Does Your Garden Grow?- In the course of his career, Poirot has had to scour all kinds of locations for clues, but now a garden is his central focus. A murder has shaken the beautiful garden area and now Poirot must use the lush green location to find some clues, if even he can find them in this location. He has cracked some tough cases before, but can he manage to make some clues bloom and put this case to rest?
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in full frame, as intended. The results are not that good, but the problems rest with the source materials and not Acorn’s efforts. I think Acorn has done about as good a job as we could ask, aside from some kind of restoration work, which isn’t viable on this special interest material. The image is flat and washed out, with a print that has a lot of wear and grain, which doesn’t help matters much. I do think these episodes are watchable, but you can tell these have some years behind them. Don’t be scared off because of the video score however, as the programs are still effective and worthwhile.
Audio: How does it sound?
As you should expect, these programs are driven by dialogue and little else, so the audio is by no means impressive. The vocals are clean and never hard to understand however, so the main element comes through in fine fashion and that’s the main issue here. The other elements sound acceptable, but remain reserved and unremarkable. So as far as the material is concerned, the audio is effective and as such, I have no real complaints.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes additional information on Agatha Christie, as well as some talent files on Christine and the cast.
