Agatha christie echoes in belgian art-world murder mystery
A sumptuous Belgian miniseries, This Is Not a Mysterious Murder, arrives on Filmin April 7th, promising a deliciously intricate whodunit steeped in the atmosphere of Agatha Christie’s best work – and a surprising cameo from Salvador Dalí.
A mansion of suspects and surrealism
The series, originally broadcast in 2025, transports viewers to the 1930s, a period of artistic ferment, where eccentric millionaire Lord James orchestrates a lavish gathering at his manor. The guest list reads like a roll call of artistic luminaries, including, intriguingly, a portrayal of Salvador Dalí by Spanish actor Iñaki Mur. What begins as a seemingly benevolent exercise in artistic exploration swiftly descends into chaos when a body is discovered, the scene staged with a disquieting nod to René Magritte’s iconic “The Lovers.”
The ensuing investigation traps these celebrated artists within the confines of the mansion, each a suspect in a puzzle worthy of Hercule Poirot. The claustrophobic setting and ensemble cast, reminiscent of Christie’s classic gatherings, amplify the tension as long-held secrets and simmering rivalries bubble to the surface. Pierre Gervais, Stephen Tompkinson, and Donna Banya head up a compelling international cast.
From hans herbots to filmin: a delayed arrival
This Is Not a Mysterious Murder is the brainchild of Hans Herbots, with directorial duties shared by Matthias Lebeer. The screenplay, penned by Christophe Dirickx and Paul Baeten Gronda, demonstrates a keen understanding of the genre’s conventions, avoiding the predictable pitfalls that often plague lesser mysteries. While the series debuted in Belgium two years ago, its arrival on Filmin provides a welcome opportunity for Spanish audiences to delve into this stylish and intelligent thriller.
Filmin, known for its curated selection of international and independent films and series, offers a unique viewing experience, often opting for weekly episode releases rather than the immediate binge-watching favored by platforms like Netflix. For those unfamiliar with Filmin’s offerings, consider it a treasure trove of cinematic gems — a perfect accompaniment to this compelling new mystery.
The series is a cleverly constructed homage to Christie, a testament to her enduring influence, but it also stakes its own claim as a worthy addition to the genre. Don't expect cheap thrills; expect a meticulously plotted narrative and a cast of characters whose motivations remain tantalizingly ambiguous until the very end. The meticulous art direction alone—recreating the opulent extravagance of the 1930s art scene—is worth the price of admission.