Britbox has rapidly become a treasure trove for fans of classic mysteries, especially those penned by the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie. While the streaming service boasts an impressive library of Poirot, Marple, and other Christie adaptations, it also offers less familiar gems, ripe for discovery. My journey into Britbox’s depths led me to Hugh Laurie’s 2022 adaptation of Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?, a novel I confess I’ve never held in the highest regard. However, this adaptation proved to be a delightful surprise, exceeding all expectations and prompting a re-evaluation of both the source material and the art of adapting Christie for modern audiences.
Initially drawn to Britbox by recommendations and the promise of exploring a vast collection of British mysteries, I found myself scrolling through a daunting number of options. After a brief detour into the comedic brilliance of Would I Lie to You? and a less enthusiastic encounter with Sister Boniface Mysteries, the name Agatha Christie beckoned. Knowing it was the anniversary of Christie’s passing, I felt compelled to revisit one of her works, and Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? was readily available.
My prior reservations stemmed from a general preference for Christie’s intricate puzzle mysteries over her lighter, “twee thriller” novels. While I appreciate the charm of her “bright young things” characters like Tommy and Tuppence, or Bundle Brent, the storylines in these books often felt less substantial compared to the complex plots of Poirot or Marple. Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?, despite being arguably the best of these lighter thrillers, always struck me as somewhat frivolous. The 1980 adaptation with Francesca Annis and James Warwick, though featuring talented actors including John Gielgud and Joan Hickson, also failed to fully capture my interest, feeling rather slow-paced.
Hugh Laurie’s 2022 Britbox adaptation, however, is a different story altogether. Having enjoyed his adaptation of Murder is Easy, I was curious to see how he would handle a Christie novel I was less enthusiastic about. From the very first scenes, swirling around the picturesque village of Marchbolt and its scenic golf links, it became clear that this adaptation understood the essence of Christie while injecting a fresh, contemporary energy.
Laurie’s screenplay is a masterclass in adaptation. It’s evident he holds a deep respect for Christie’s plot, characters, and dialogue, yet he possesses the skill to translate them seamlessly for a modern audience. The characters spring to life with witty and engaging dialogue, making them instantly relatable and captivating.
We are quickly introduced to Bobby Jones, played by Will Poulter. Poulter’s portrayal is a welcome departure from the “smarmy smugness” the author associated with previous Christie performances. Bobby, a vicar’s son and former Navy man, is contemplating a partnership in a garage with his friend “Badger” Beadon. Their golf game takes an unexpected turn when a scream pierces the air, leading them to discover a man’s body at the foot of the cliffs.
In a clever adaptation choice, Dr. Thomas, Bobby’s golf companion, is depicted as a war veteran with a wooden leg, adding a layer of depth to his character and the post-war setting. While Dr. Thomas seeks help, Bobby bravely descends the cliffs to aid the injured man. In a dramatic moment true to Christie’s style, the dying man utters the enigmatic question, “Why didn’t they ask Evans?” before succumbing to his injuries.
Even Christie’s less favored novels are built upon compelling hooks, and Laurie’s adaptation maximizes the intrigue. While staying true to the initial mystery, the series takes its time to develop the characters. We are introduced to Bobby’s father, the Vicar, played with wonderful nuance by Alistair Petrie, and, crucially, to Lady Frances “Frankie” Derwent, brought to life by the brilliant Lucy Boynton. Frankie, Bobby’s childhood acquaintance and perhaps more, is instantly captivating, and Boynton’s chemistry with Poulter is palpable.
Lady Frances Derwent (Lucy Boynton) teams up with Bobby Jones (Will Poulter) to unravel the mystery in Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?
The “twee-ness” often associated with this novel is skillfully mitigated by Laurie’s sharp dialogue, assured direction, stunning cinematography by John de Borman and Mika Orasmaa, and meticulous art design. The depiction of Marchbolt is so evocative and charming that it surpasses the portrayal of Wychwood-Under-Ashe in Murder Is Easy, suggesting a deliberate choice to enhance the idyllic English village setting. The three-part drama maintains a stylish aesthetic without succumbing to the overly stylized approach that marred some previous Christie adaptations.
While the plot may echo elements of Wilkie Collins-esque mysteries, Laurie’s adaptation grounds the narrative in a relatable realism through its filming and performances. The pacing is brisk and engaging, a notable contrast to the two-part Murder Is Easy adaptation, which, despite being shorter, felt slower in comparison.
There are some deviations from the original novel – a friend of Bobby’s meets a different fate, and the method of poisoning is heightened by a dramatic carnival backdrop. The series also subtly explores class dynamics, particularly in the relationship between the aristocratic Frankie and the middle-class Bobby, adding a layer of social commentary that feels organic to the narrative. Unlike some less nuanced explorations of class in Murder Is Easy, Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? handles these themes with grace and subtlety.
The adaptation is consistently graceful, suspenseful, and genuinely humorous. Emma Thompson and Jim Broadbent deliver delightful cameo performances as Frankie’s parents, and Hugh Laurie himself makes a strategic appearance in the final act. While his on-screen presence is enjoyable, his true triumph lies in his direction and screenplay. He embraces the inherent absurdity of Christie’s plot – the lingering question of “Evans” remains delightfully perplexing – and somehow makes it feel grounded and believable within the context of the story.
As a self-proclaimed Agathologist with an appreciation for diverse approaches to Christie adaptations, I wholeheartedly applaud Hugh Laurie’s vision. This adaptation of Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? is a resounding success, demonstrating how to revitalize classic material for contemporary audiences while staying true to its spirit. Britbox has truly delivered a gem. As my year-long subscription unfolds, I eagerly anticipate discovering more hidden treasures within its library. This adaptation of Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? sets a high bar and leaves me optimistic about the future of Christie adaptations and the continued appeal of Britbox as a streaming destination for mystery aficionados.
