Netflix has unveiled the first trailer for The Thursday Murder Club movie, a highly anticipated comedy-crime film that expertly combines the charm of Knives Out, the wit of Red, and the warmth of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Adapted from Richard Osman’s bestselling 2020 novel, which has inspired three sequels, the film plunges viewers into a quirky murder mystery set within the confines of a luxury retirement community, Coopers Chase.
The story follows a quartet of sharp-minded retirees who channel their unique skills to solve a murder case. The group features ex-spy Elizabeth (Helen Mirren), retired psychiatrist Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley), former union activist Ron (Pierce Brosnan), and retired nurse Joyce (Celia Imrie). The trailer opens with the team revisiting a cold case from 1973, instantly setting the tone for a blend of suspense and humor. A standout moment includes Joyce’s playful remark, “Isn’t this room usually for jigsaws?” met with Elizabeth’s sharp retort, “Not on Thursdays, no.”
As the plot unfolds, the team is energized by a fresh murder nearby, sparking a new investigation full of shadowy figures, eccentric team dynamics, and even a deliberately slow-paced car chase. Early reactions from fans of the original novel highlight the film’s faithful adaptation and stellar casting. Viewers on YouTube praised the movie’s authenticity, with one comment describing it as “the perfect cast” and another saying, “Joyce and Elizabeth are just how I pictured.”
Director Chris Columbus, known for his work in the film industry, expressed admiration for the cast, emphasizing their versatility and dedication: “This is the finest cast I’ve worked with since [Harry] Potter. They do theater, television, and film, and they’ve developed those sorts of muscles.” The screenplay, penned by Katy Brand and Suzanne Heathcote, also features Daniel Mays and Naomi Ackie among its notable ensemble.
The Thursday Murder Club is set to premiere on August 28. Fans eager for more can explore the movie genre landscape or dive deeper into intriguing crime thriller narratives while awaiting the release.