'Agatha Christie's Seven Dials' Review: Netflix’s Agatha Christie Adaptation is Ordinary and Unassuming
- Romey Norton
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
By Romey Norton - January 15, 2026
Agatha Christie remains one of the most influential crime writers of all time, her work shaping the very foundations of the murder mystery genre. With more than two billion books sold worldwide, Christie’s stories have endured because of their intricate plotting, sharply observed characters and timeless fascination with human motive. The Seven Dials Mystery, first published in 1929, is one of her lighter, more playful novels, revolving around a group of young socialites, a suspicious death, and a secretive organisation known as the Seven Dials Club. Netflix’s decision to adapt this lesser-known Christie story appears to be a strategic attempt to refresh the brand; drawing in younger audiences through modern filmmaking techniques, recognisable stars and a streamlined, binge-friendly format, while still trading on Christie’s enduring cultural cachet.
The first episode might have a slight intrigue due to the clocks, however I found it hard to stay engaged as the lead feels like a 2-dimensional character. Which is my kind way of saying, boring. The second episode has the strongest start, with instant murder, revenge and intrigue, but then falters to scenes that feel like they’re filling space. Which they are, because episode three is incredibly strong, and worth watching the whole series for.
The series is filled with beautiful locations, especially when in Ronda, Spain. But where this series falters is in its inability to capture the true essence of which era it’s set. A few small costume pieces such as hats just don’t cut it. A lot of characters often look out of place, and don't match the aesthetics of the locations. What makes other Agatha Christie adaptations so wonderful is their ability to transport you into a different time. I assume the era here is the 1920's and it fails to take you there.
The lead, whilst giving a decent performance, feels forced. Part of the charm of the previous female leads is that you didn’t expect them to be so sleuth, due to how women were expected to be in their time eras. The lead in this adaptation of The Seven Dials, is forthright and modern. Not hiding her investigation, and being completely respected throughout. Costume wise, I have the impression they were trying to make her seem alternative for the time, but she stuck out like a sore thumb. Older, more familiar audiences might not warm to this style of lead but younger audiences might be able to relate. If their aim was to bring in younger audiences, they could have made it modern day. What’s wonderful about Agatha Christie, like Shakespeare, like Dickens, can be adapted to modern day. Despite these, there are some nice close ups of quiet intrigue.
Martin Freeman plays the part of a true Agatha Christie character, with charm and poise. He’s compelling on screen, steals his scenes and drives the story along. Nyasha Hatendi is a breath of fresh air when his character comes in episode two. He’s a great actor who gives a stellar performance. Helena Bonham-Carter is a seasoned actress and is beautiful to watch. She’s very much in her element. In the final episode both her and Freeman have some much needed screen time and it’s powerful.
I have to mention the distressing number of scenes which are filmed as if on iPhones portrait mode - a current trend we’re seeing in modern films. It’s one of those things that you can’t unsee once you’ve seen it. Then you can play a drinking game when you take a drink every time the background is blurred. My issue with this is that it is not true to real life, so please, for the love of God, stop it.
The last 30 minutes are the most exciting and entertaining and it’s a shame the rest of the series didn’t have as much grip. Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials is an easy, three-episode binge with moments of intrigue, strong supporting performances and striking locations, but it ultimately struggles with pacing, period authenticity and a lead character that feels misjudged. While fans of murder mysteries will find enough here to warrant a watch, this adaptation never quite captures the magic of Christie at her best, and there are far stronger adaptations of her work already available.
'Agatha Christie's Seven Dials' is available on Netflix from January 15.
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