Okay, if you’re going into this movie thinking it’s going to be a horror movie filled with frightening jump scares, know now that it is not a horror film. A Haunting in Venice falls more under the “Crime” and “Thriller” category, but the moment I saw the preview I knew I had to watch it in theaters and I’m glad I did. Read along for my spoiler free movie review of “A Haunting in Venice.”

Spoiler Free Plot Summary

A Haunting in Venice, directed by Kenneth Branagh, takes place in Venice, Italy, during post war times. Most of the film takes place inside the walls of a stunning palazzo, giving the film the perfect glamorous and eerie vibe it needed. The story unfolds on Hallows eve, making it the perfect movie to watch this Halloween season. Hercule Poirot, a famous detective is forced to come out of retirement after he very reluctantly attends a seance at an infamous palazzo that’s haunted by its macabre past. The seance soon becomes a crime investigation where Hercule Poirot is set on discovering the truth.

The Main Characters in the Film

Hercule Poitot

Hercule Poirot, portrayed by actor Kenneth Branagh, is a retired detective living in Venice, Italy. His character is very logical and believes there is very little mystery in the world. He believes that everything believed to be supernatural has a logical and scientific explanation, and is set to prove it.

Rowena Drake

Rowena Drake, portrayed by actress Kelly Reilly, was recently struck by tragedy and was desperate to see her dearly departed once more. Prompting her to host a seance in her home despite knowing the tragic events that once took place in the immaculate palace.

More  About the Film

If you’re a fan of movies like “Death on The Orient Express” or the classic board game Clue, then you will surely like this movie. This movie was a classic whodunit that had me re-evaluating my suspect at each turn. Though I would not classify the film as a horror movie, it did build up quite a bit of suspense and tension. There were plenty of moments where the build up lead me to believe I was about to be jump scared, but I was not. Which can be a benefit if you’re not big on being scared. 

Is it Family Friendly?

In my opinion, the movie is family friendly. The movie is rated PG-13, and I’d say the rating is pretty spot on. There are no adult scenes, but it is a murder mystery, so people will be un-alived in the film. There might be one or two scenes that you might find to be too gruesome.

I have two tweens who love scary things, just like their mother, so I will definitely be watching this with them as soon as it becomes available on streaming platforms. If you’re looking for more family friendly Halloween movie recommendations, check out my not so scary halloween movie list.