Britbox has emerged as a treasure trove for fans of classic mysteries, and as a subscriber, I’ve embarked on a delightful journey through their extensive library. While exploring their offerings, I stumbled upon the 2022 adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel, Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? Having previously expressed lukewarm feelings towards the source material and past adaptations, I approached this version with cautious optimism. Directed and adapted by Hugh Laurie, this three-part series proved to be not just an enjoyable watch, but a masterclass in how to breathe fresh life into a beloved, yet sometimes problematic, classic.
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Reassessing a Christie Classic: Beyond Puzzles and “Twee Thrills”
Agatha Christie’s bibliography is vast and varied, and Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? often occupies a unique, and sometimes debated, space within it. Unlike her meticulously plotted puzzle mysteries featuring Poirot or Miss Marple, Evans leans into a more light-hearted, thriller-esque style, populated by what some might consider “bright young things.” While Christie excelled in creating these vibrant characters and fast-paced narratives – think Tommy and Tuppence, or Bundle Brent – Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? has, for some, including myself, felt a tad “silly” in its overall execution. The novel, set in the roaring twenties, follows Bobby Jones and Frankie Derwent as they unravel a cryptic dying message, leading them into a world of intrigue and danger. While the charm of Bobby and Frankie is undeniable, the plot’s inherent whimsicality can sometimes overshadow the suspense.
Previous adaptations, such as the 1980 film starring Francesca Annis and James Warwick, while boasting talented casts, have also struggled to fully capture the essence of the story without succumbing to a certain slow pace and light tone that dilutes the mystery. Therefore, approaching Hugh Laurie’s 2022 adaptation of Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? involved managing expectations, especially considering my pre-existing reservations about the novel itself.
Hugh Laurie’s Vision: A Fresh and Witty Take
From the very first scenes, Laurie’s adaptation of Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? signals a departure from previous interpretations. The cinematography immediately immerses you in the picturesque English village of Marchbolt and its dramatic coastal golf links, setting a visually stunning stage for the unfolding drama. Laurie’s screenplay is the true star here; it’s sharp, witty, and imbued with a modern sensibility while remaining deeply respectful of Christie’s original plot, characters, and dialogue. He understands how to translate the novel’s essence for contemporary audiences, injecting a vibrancy and pace that was perhaps lacking in earlier versions.
We are swiftly introduced to Bobby Jones (played with compelling earnestness by Will Poulter). Poulter’s portrayal avoids any hint of the smugness sometimes associated with previous Christie protagonists, making Bobby relatable and engaging. He is depicted playing golf with Dr. Thomas, a friend and fellow veteran, when their game is interrupted by a scream. They discover a dying man at the foot of a cliff, who utters the enigmatic question that titles the story.
The first edition cover of Agatha Christie’s novel “Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?”, published in 1934, featuring a classic, minimalist design with bold red text against a white background.
Laurie masterfully draws us into the mystery, mirroring the book’s initial hook. However, he then takes his time to develop the characters and their relationships. We meet Bobby’s father, the Vicar (played with wonderful nuance by Alistair Petrie), and, crucially, Lady Frances “Frankie” Derwent, brought to life by Lucy Boynton in a truly captivating performance. Boynton’s Frankie is intelligent, independent, and possesses a delightful spark, perfectly capturing the spirit of Christie’s adventurous heroine. The chemistry between Boynton and Poulter is palpable, adding a layer of engaging dynamic to their investigative partnership.
Sparkling Dialogue, Stunning Visuals, and Grounded Realism
What truly elevates this adaptation of Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? is the skillful balancing act Laurie achieves. He retains the inherent “craziness” of Christie’s plot – the often improbable situations and coincidences that drive the narrative – but grounds it in a sense of realism through nuanced performances, exceptional cinematography, and meticulous art direction. The visuals are breathtaking, capturing the beauty of the English countryside while simultaneously creating an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue. The dialogue is crisp and witty, breathing life into the characters and making even exposition feel engaging.
Lucy Boynton as Lady Frances Derwent and Will Poulter as Bobby Jones in “Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?”, showcasing their on-screen chemistry as they team up to solve the mystery.
Unlike some adaptations that lean too heavily into a stylized or theatrical interpretation of Christie, Laurie’s Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? feels both stylish and authentic. It avoids the pitfalls of overly mannered performances and instead focuses on creating believable characters reacting to extraordinary circumstances. This grounded approach makes the more outlandish plot elements palatable and even charming. The pacing is also expertly handled; despite being a three-part series, it zips along, holding the viewer’s attention throughout. This is in stark contrast to the two-part adaptation of Murder Is Easy, which, while enjoyable, felt comparatively slower and less focused.
While Laurie does introduce some changes from the original novel – including the addition of new characters and alterations to certain plot points – these changes serve to enhance the drama and pacing of the adaptation without betraying the spirit of Christie’s story. The subtle exploration of class dynamics, particularly in the relationship between the aristocratic Frankie and the middle-class Bobby, adds another layer of depth to the narrative, handled with far more grace than some of the more heavy-handed social commentary in Murder Is Easy.
A Triumph for Britbox and Christie Adaptations
Hugh Laurie’s Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? is a resounding success. It’s a masterclass in adapting Agatha Christie for a modern audience, proving that it’s possible to remain faithful to the source material while injecting fresh energy and contemporary appeal. With delightful cameos from Emma Thompson and Jim Broadbent as Frankie’s parents, and Laurie himself making a strategic appearance, the entire production exudes quality and charm. Laurie’s direction and screenplay are the true highlights, transforming a novel that I had previously considered somewhat lightweight into a captivating and thoroughly enjoyable mystery series.
For Agatha Christie enthusiasts, and for anyone looking for a well-crafted, witty, and visually stunning mystery, Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? on Britbox is an absolute must-watch. This adaptation has not only renewed my appreciation for the novel itself, but also solidified my enthusiasm for Britbox as a streaming service delivering high-quality classic mystery content. As I continue my year-long Britbox journey, Hugh Laurie’s Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? sets a high bar for future discoveries and has me eagerly anticipating what other gems this streaming platform holds.
