After numerous delays over two years, Disney is finally pushing forward with the release of “Death on the Nile,” despite the ongoing controversy surrounding lead star Armie Hammer in the wake of his rape allegations and cannibalism scandal.
After repeatedly delaying the film’s release due to the coronavirus pandemic — and Hammer’s own notoriety — 20th Century Studios has announced a February 11th premiere date for Death on the Nile.
They also released a new trailer for the upcoming murder mystery that is directed by Kenneth Branagh.
The movie’s IMDB page writes its synopsis as follows:
Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot’s vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer turns into a terrifying search for a murderer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short. Set against an epic landscape of sweeping Egyptian desert vistas and the majestic Giza pyramids, this tale of unbridled passion and incapacitating jealousy features a cosmopolitan group of impeccably dressed travelers, and enough wicked twists and turns to leave audiences guessing until the final, shocking denouement.
The decision to continue with the release has caused outrage amongst movie fans, who have taken to social media to mock the trailer – which appears to have gone to great lengths in the editing to minimize
Hammer’s role in the film.
There were rumors suggesting that the film would skip theatres altogether and opt for a streaming release instead. However, Disney has to release the film exclusively in theaters due to contractual obligations as a 20th Century acquisition. There is also a belief that the film has big commercial possibilities given its predecessor “Murder on the Orient Express” made more than $350 million at the worldwide box office.
20th Century Studios production president Steve Asbell spoke on the decision to release theatrically, stating the following:
“Ken’s sweeping, elegant vision for this classic story deserves to be seen on the biggest screen possible. We’re so proud of this film, our brilliant cast, and the stellar work that went into bringing ‘Death on the Nile’ to screen. We know that audiences can’t wait to experience Hercule Poirot’s next adventure, and we’re thrilled to continue working with Ken as he lends his masterful storytelling vision to the newest film in this celebrated franchise.”
James Prichard, chairman, and CEO of Agatha Christie Ltd also spoke on the release, saying:
“More than 100 years after the publication of Agatha Christie’s first novel, her crime fiction works remain immensely popular and continue to be discovered anew by people around the world. I’m thrilled that Disney and our partners believe in this franchise, which has helped introduce millions of new fans to Christie’s classic works. We’re honored to be in business with Disney, Ken, and all who are dedicated to preserving the long legacy of these titles for future generations.”
Check out the brand new trailer and poster below.
