The popular novel by Richard Osman has been adapted into a comedy-drama series on Netflix, following the misadventures of four elderly friends – Elizabeth, Ron, Ibrahim, and Joyce – as they solve crimes at their retirement community. The show, starring Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Celia Imrie, brings back nostalgic leanings reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s works.
Set in Coopers Chase, a luxurious retirement facility, the group meets weekly to discuss unsolved crimes, supplied by Elizabeth’s friend. Their evil landlord Ian Ventham (David Tennant) unveils plans to redevelop the place as luxury flats, sparking a series of violent and mysterious events that need to be investigated by local police.
The Thursday Murder Club, led by Elizabeth, uses their collective invisibility – thanks to being old people – to gather clues. The show features self-aware gags, including Helen Mirren’s character being compared to Queen Elizabeth. However, the plot accelerates to pure absurdity in its final act, resembling a weekday afternoon kids’ TV show.
Despite this, the keynote of fun prevails. The show offers undemanding enjoyment, even if it tackles bold and controversial topics like assisted dying. With a talented cast and robust direction by Chris Columbus, “Thursday Murder Club” brings an entertaining take on the classic detective genre.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/aug/22/the-thursday-club-review-richard-osman-bestseller-provides-solid-star-stuffed-entertainment