Angelina Jolie is reportedly circling a role in Fox’s upcoming remake of Murder on the Orient Express. Kenneth Branagh (Cinderella) is directing the film as well as starring as the renowned sleuth Hercule Poirot.
The story comes from the popular Agatha Christie murder mystery novel that sees her Belgian detective happen upon a murder while on board the Orient Express. He begins a lengthy investigation in which numerous passengers are potential suspects. Michael Green (Blade Runner 2) is adapting the screenplay. Due to the extent of roles up for grabs, it is unclear which part Jolie is circling.
The original 1974 film adaptation starred Albert Finney (Big Fish), Lauren Bacall, Ingrid Bergman, Sean Connery, Vanessa Redgrave, and Jacqueline Bisset. It would not be surprising if Jolie reprised Bacall’s role of Mrs. Hubbard whose character is an older sophisticated woman who provides plenty of diversion within the classic story.
This would be a welcome return to the big screen for Jolie, who has mostly stayed away from big Hollywood movies in recent years. Last year, she wrote, directed, and starred in By the Sea with her partner Brad Pitt, but has otherwise kept to animated/children’s roles in the Kung Fu Panda series and Maleficent.
Check back for more updates on the remake which will likely be attracting a lot more star power as casting resumes.