This episode was based on the short story 'The Affair at the Victory Ball', first published in 1923 in The Sketch. The story was adapted for television by Andrew Marshall and directed by Renny Rye.
Script versus short story
The adaptation is more or less faithful to its source material, with some noticeable additions and changes. First, there's an introductory voice-over by Poirot on the characters of the Commedia del'Arte (in fact, there are repeated references to the different characters - a very useful and important explanation for viewers). Second, the actors here become BBC Radio actors, and an added radio producer becomes a friend of Hastings's. Third, Poirot and Hastings are both present at the Victory Ball, on the invitation of this friend. Fourth, there's an added interview with Davidson (and Davidson's character is a much more prominent character throughout). Finally, the denouement is moved to the radio studio, and the solution is changed somewhat (Davidson tried to implicate his wife, Poirot reveals him by the fact that he is left handed and Lord Cronshaw was right handed). All in all, though, the adaptation is a faithful retelling of the short story.
(I must admit, though, that the victory celebration seems somewhat out of place. It was perhaps somewhat more appropriate in the original short story, which was set shortly after the First World War.)
Directing, production design, locations, soundtrack
Rye's direction works well for the episode, with excellent use of the extravagant ball scenes (the production designers and costume designers must have had a lot of fun with that one). Locations used include, of course, the Broadcasting House in London. The soundtrack is very effective, and Gunning released it on CD. Parts of it were also used for later episode scores (see, for instance, The Adventure of the Egyptian Tomb).
Actors and characters
Of the guest actors, there are no real standouts, but Nathaniel Parker (of later Inspector Lynley fame) is obviously a name to note.
There is something refreshing about Poirot's feelings in opposition to drugs (not moralistic so much as aware of the danger) after seeing so many drug-addicted modern TV characters. (Of course, Poirot isn't as smart about the effects of his eating, or even alcohol.)
ReplyDeletecome on fangirl
DeleteIt is said that in film "nothing is done accidentally." So there must have been some reason why we see Miss Lemon turn on the radio for Poirot's broadcast, and why she looks decidedly delighted. It's not just "Good, now we'll get this case solved." It borders on a groupie listening to her beloved actor or singer.
ReplyDeleteShe's hearing her friend on the radio - of course she's delighted. Wouldn't you tune in if your friend was on the radio or TV?
ReplyDeleteNice to see Charles Collingwood (who now portrays Brian Aldridge in 'The Archers') as the BBC Announcer! By the way, does anyone know the location of the building used as the Colosseum where the Victory Ball was held?
ReplyDeleteLoved seeing the young Inspector Linley!
ReplyDeleteI ended this very puzzled with why do the murders in the first place? What was the breaking point, because it had to come way before the Ball itself for Davidson to have enough time to order an extra (duplicate) costume built. By whom, btw - the original costumer would likely have mentioned the two Harlequins to one of the Cronshaws.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI am a massive fan of Agatha Christie basically having no idea what drugs are beyond "they're really bad for you".
ReplyDeleteThree things we learn about cocaine from this episode. 1. Being on cocaine basically just makes you a bit giggly and unsteady on your feet - it's basically the same as five pints. 2. Cocaine is famously really good at helping you go to sleep, as in "sleep well, I always do". 3. There is a specific dose of cocaine that you can give to someone which will always definitely kill them without fail, even if you don't know how much of it they're going to take at once.
I love this episode, and this isn't even a criticism - just thought it was sweet and funny.