Towards Zero (film)
Towards Zero is a 2007 television film based on the 1944 Agatha Christie novel of the same name. It is part of the Agatha Christie's Marple series, starring Geraldine McEwan as Miss Jane Marple.
Plot Summary:
The film revolves around an annual gathering at Gull's Point, the clifftop home of Lady Camilla Tressilian. A complex web of relationships and past events intertwines as the guests arrive, including a former ward, a jealous ex-husband, and a mysterious tennis pro. As the tensions rise, Miss Marple, a friend of Lady Tressilian, senses an impending tragedy. A murder occurs, and Miss Marple must unravel the complicated relationships and hidden motives of the assembled guests to prevent further violence and identify the killer. The title, "Towards Zero," refers to the premise that every murder is the end result of a chain of events, with the murder itself being the "zero hour."
Cast:
- Geraldine McEwan as Miss Jane Marple
- Julian Sands as Thomas Royde
- Greta Scacchi as Lady Camilla Tressilian
- Greg Wise as Nevile Strange
- Zoe Tapper as Audrey Strange
- Tom Baker as Superintendent Battle
- Saffron Burrows as Audrey Strange (Alternate flashbacks)
- Martin Compston as Albert Batt
Production:
The film was produced by Granada Television for ITV. It deviates from the original novel in several aspects, most notably including Miss Marple in the investigation when she is not present in Christie's original Towards Zero book.
Reception:
Reviews for Towards Zero were mixed. Some critics praised McEwan's portrayal of Miss Marple and the film's atmospheric setting. Others criticized the changes made to the source material and felt that the plot was overly convoluted.
Differences from the Novel:
As with many adaptations, the film takes liberties with the novel's plot and characters. The most significant change is the inclusion of Miss Marple. The original novel's investigation is primarily led by Superintendent Battle. Other changes include alterations to the relationships between the characters and the circumstances surrounding the murder.