The Thursday Murder Club Tamil Movie Review: A Charming but Flawed Mystery-Comedy
The Thursday Murder Club, a 2025 Netflix release directed by Chris Columbus, adapts Richard Osman’s bestselling novel into a cozy mystery-comedy filled with humor, heart, and light intrigue. Released on August 28, 2025, the film stars Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie as a group of spirited retirees who turn detectives after a murder rocks their retirement village, Coopers Chase. For Tamil audiences who enjoy ensemble dramas with warmth and wit, the film offers lighthearted entertainment, though it struggles with a predictable plot and rushed pacing.
Plot and Themes
Set in the English countryside, the film follows four retirees who form an amateur detective club to solve cold cases:
Elizabeth Best (Helen Mirren), a sharp ex-MI6 agent
Ron Ritchie (Pierce Brosnan), a fiery former union leader
Ibrahim Arif (Ben Kingsley), a thoughtful ex-psychiatrist
Joyce Meadowcroft (Celia Imrie), a cheerful ex-nurse with a love for baking
When Tony Curran, a shady property developer, is murdered, the group dives into the case. Their investigation uncovers corruption, crime syndicates, and secrets tied to a decades-old unsolved killing involving their comatose friend Penny Gray.
The story blends friendship, resilience, and the fight against ageist stereotypes, showing the elderly as sharp, resourceful, and full of life. For Tamil viewers, these universal themes connect well, though the mystery itself feels a little rushed and predictable compared to the book’s layered plot.
Performances
The heart of the film is its stellar cast:
Helen Mirren is outstanding as Elizabeth, her wit and gravitas making her the group’s natural leader.
Pierce Brosnan brings energy as Ron, though at times his performance feels exaggerated.
Ben Kingsley shines as Ibrahim, offering calm wisdom and quiet humor.
Celia Imrie steals scenes with her warmth, especially in moments of comedy and domestic charm.
Supporting roles add flavor—Naomi Ackie brings sincerity as policewoman Donna, while David Tennant and Richard E. Grant lean into villainous roles with flair. The ensemble chemistry and sharp banter keep the film lively even when the script falters.
Direction and Writing
Chris Columbus directs with polish but opts for a safe, formulaic tone. The adaptation simplifies Osman’s intricate novel, trimming subplots and character layers for a brisk pace. While this makes the film more accessible, it also reduces suspense and emotional depth.
The humor lands well, especially Elizabeth’s witty one-liners, but the mystery feels like a TV drama condensed into under two hours. Tamil audiences who appreciate layered storytelling may find the third act too rushed and the secondary plots underdeveloped.
Technical Aspects
Cinematography captures the lush beauty of the English countryside, offering postcard-like visuals.
Music combines a playful score with nostalgic tracks, adding a cozy feel.
Editing keeps things moving but struggles to juggle the crowded narrative.
The retirement home setting, though lavish, feels slightly disconnected from the grounded themes the story aims to convey.
Overall, the technical side is neat but unremarkable.
Social Relevance and Impact
The film’s strongest aspect is how it celebrates aging with dignity. The retirees are portrayed as vibrant, capable individuals who refuse to be sidelined—a message Tamil audiences can easily connect with. A subplot exploring dementia through Elizabeth’s husband adds poignancy, resonating with themes of family care and love.
Still, the lack of cultural depth or strong suspense prevents the film from leaving a lasting impression. It works best as light weekend viewing, particularly for families streaming on Netflix.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
Stellar performances, especially Mirren, Imrie, and Kingsley
Warm humor and witty banter
Themes of friendship, resilience, and community
Weaknesses:
Predictable and simplified mystery
Rushed climax and underdeveloped subplots
Glossy tone that feels more like a TV-movie than a gripping thriller
Final Verdict
The Thursday Murder Club is a pleasant, star-driven mystery-comedy that entertains with charm and warmth, even if it lacks the depth and suspense of the original novel. For Tamil audiences, it’s a cozy watch with universal themes of aging, friendship, and resilience. Stream it for Helen Mirren’s commanding presence and the ensemble’s chemistry, but don’t expect a tightly woven thriller.
Rating: 3/5
Streaming Platform: Netflix