For many literature lovers, the news of a beloved novel being adapted by Netflix is a thrilling yet anxious event. From modern retellings of Jane Austen to high-budget fantasy epics, the streaming giant has turned the book-to-screen pipeline into a genre all its own. The Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie, is the newest recipient of this treatment with Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials.

To understand the spirit of the upcoming adaptation, fans should revisit the largely faithful 1981 television film of the same name.

The 1981 version provides an excellent comparison point for the new Netflix series, offering a more classic, 1980s television movie aesthetic. The 1981 film The Seven Dials Mystery opens with a fatal prank at Chimneys. Guests set eight alarm clocks to wake Gerry Wade, but he is found dead, and one clock is missing. When a second victim's dying words are Seven Dials, Lady Eileen ‘Bundle’ Brent investigates. Her inquiry uncovers the Seven Dials, a secret society engaged in espionage and the theft of top-secret government papers.

The Seven Dials Mystery was directed by Tony Wharmby and featured a distinguished British cast. The main sleuth, Lady Eileen ‘Bundle’ Brent, was played by Cheryl Campbell, while Harry Andrews portrayed the reliable Superintendent Battle. The legendary Sir John Gielgud also appeared as Bundle’s father, the Marquis of Caterham. This loyal adaptation of Agatha Christie's espionage thriller currently holds an IMDb rating of 6.6/10, reflecting its reputation as a faithful piece of period mystery television.

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While the core plot of the missing alarm clock and the subsequent murders remains intact, the modern adaptation by Netflix will undoubtedly present a bolder, more contemporary cinematic style.

Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials promises an epic and fast-paced adventure that merges the classic country house mystery with elements of the espionage thriller. Bundle must follow a trail of clues that points to the mysterious and deadly Seven Dials organization, a secret society with sinister motives. The show boasts a top-tier cast, including Mia McKenna-Bruce as Bundle, Helena Bonham Carter as Lady Caterham, and Martin Freeman, ensuring a high-quality production that brings the beloved novel to life for a new generation of Netflix viewers.

The creative team for Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials is helmed by writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall of Broadchurch fame. Chris Sweeney directs all three parts, and Suzanne Mackie executive produces under her Orchid Pictures banner. Additional executive producers include Chris Sussman and Agatha Christie’s great-grandson, James Prichard, ensuring a blend of fresh vision and respect for the Queen of Crime's legacy, as per Netflix Tudum.

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What expectations you hold of Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials after watching The Seven Dials Mystery? Let us know in the comments below.