Agatha (film)

Agatha is a 1979 British historical mystery thriller film directed by Michael Apted and starring Vanessa Redgrave, Dustin Hoffman, and Timothy Dalton. The film presents a fictionalized account of the real-life disappearance of crime novelist Agatha Christie in December 1926.

The story follows an American journalist, Wally Stanton (Dustin Hoffman), who travels to England after learning of Agatha Christie's (Vanessa Redgrave) sudden disappearance. Christie, deeply distressed by her husband Archie's (Timothy Dalton) infidelity and intention to divorce her, vanishes without a trace, causing a nationwide sensation.

As the police launch a massive search effort, Stanton investigates independently, becoming entangled in a web of secrets and suspicion. He uncovers clues suggesting Christie may be planning a dramatic act. Stanton finds himself increasingly drawn to the enigmatic author, attempting to understand her motivations and prevent potential harm. The film explores themes of marital breakdown, societal pressures, and the psychological toll of fame. While inspired by actual events, the plot is largely speculative, offering a fictional interpretation of Christie's motives and actions during her eleven-day disappearance.