I have watched these films so many times that I know the staging without even looking at the screen, which is great because if I'm listening to the dialog and looking at what I'm busy with, I can still see the action in my mind's eye. And I promise you these never get old. The reasons are simple:
1. Margaret Rutherford's performance. One of the most appropriate, brilliant, and thoroughly enjoyable conversions of a character from book to screen that ever occurred in classic film.
2. Music. The Miss Marple theme song is incomparable. If you have your speakers turned on you've already been treated to it. It is so good, I almost wish the intro would never end.
3. Mr. Stringer. Played by Stringer Davis (Rutherford's real life husband I have only just learned, this character is one of the cutest and sweetest old men to ever grace the silver screen. He makes a perfect side-kick to the plucky Marple.
With varying, interesting plots and superb supporting casts throughout the series, this is one that I can heartily recommend in its entirety, and I am confident in saying that it would make a fine gift for any lover of mystery, Christie, or old movies.
Amazon sells the set, but single movies are more economical. Murder Ahoy comes in at just over $5.
However and whenever you enjoy these films, I do hope you will send a comment my way so I can know about it!
-Incidentally, this is a fascinating read if you are interested in Rutherford and Davis personally.
