Evil Under the Sun
1982
Tyrania
Guy Hamilton
Whodunit Camp Classic
What’s it all about: It’s the 1930s, and cocktails will be served promptly at 8. Jane Birkin trades in her signature bag for a steamer trunk full of “mousy” ensembles, lest she feel underdressed. Diana Rigg gleefully spars with Maggie Smith and an all-star comedic cast until someone spoils the fun with a murder. More cocktails are served, and Peter Ustinov sniffs out the clues with plenty of snark to add of his own.
First Encounter: HBO on loop in the 80s, a favorite ever since
Prostitute Index: nil
Death By: being “poor, foolish, beautiful and gullible”
Relics: polka-dot terry bathing turban; having your luggage brought up by donkey
Hoops: gathering all the suspects in the parlor to reveal whodunit (done right!)
Heartthrobs: Diana Rigg, James Mason, Nicholas Clay
Pass/Fails the Test of Time: Roddy McDowall
LoFi Magic: Sylvia Miles reaction shots; Cole Porter, and Hugh Casson’s watercolor sketches for the opening credits
Words to live by: “I was wrong about cherchez la femme, sorry about that. But it’s just got to be cherchez le fruit.”
Makes me want to: return to the Adriatic! (or Majorca, either one!)
Candotti Take: n/a
@mlepeska Take:
Worth a watch/rewatch: Yes
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