Murder Mystery, starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston, is a delightful blend of comedy and whodunit mystery. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Europe, from bustling New York streets to the glamorous villas on Lake Como, the film falls squarely into the genre of action-comedy with a twist of murder mystery. The movie, directed by Kyle Newacheck, attempts to combine the classic elements of Agatha Christie-esque mysteries with the slapstick humor that Sandler is known for.
The plot revolves around Nick and Audrey Spitz, a middle-class couple from New York who, on their long-overdue European vacation, find themselves invited to a billionaire’s family gathering on a luxurious yacht. The glamorous setting quickly turns sinister when the host, Malcolm Quince, is murdered, and the Spitzes become the prime suspects. As the couple tries to clear their name, they dive deeper into a world of intrigue, encountering a colorful array of characters, each with their own motives and secrets.
One standout aspect of the film is the chemistry between Sandler and Aniston. Having worked together before in “Just Go with It,” their on-screen rapport feels natural and genuinely funny. Sandler plays Nick, a weary New York cop with a penchant for lying, while Aniston’s Audrey is a quick-witted hairdresser with a love for crime novels. Their banter and comedic timing bring life to the somewhat predictable plot. For instance, in one scene, Audrey’s fascination with detective novels leads her to impulsively confront a suspect, creating a hilarious moment that showcases Aniston’s knack for physical comedy.
The direction by Kyle Newacheck, known for his work in “Workaholics,” is competent but doesn’t bring much novelty to the genre. The film moves at a brisk pace, ensuring there’s never a dull moment, but it also doesn’t take any risks that could have elevated it beyond a standard comedy. The editing, while tight, occasionally feels rushed, especially in the climax, where the resolution feels more convenient than clever.
Cinematography by Amir Mokri deserves mention for capturing the stunning European locales, which add a layer of visual appeal to the film. The sweeping shots of Lake Como, the bustling streets of Monte Carlo, and the luxurious interiors of the yacht create a contrast between the couple’s ordinary life and the extraordinary situation they find themselves in. However, while the settings are beautiful, they sometimes overshadow the mystery itself, making the plot secondary to the film’s visual spectacle.
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Rupert Gregson-Williams, complements the movie’s lighthearted tone, although it doesn’t particularly stand out. The music cues work to enhance the comedic moments and add suspense to the mystery, but they don’t leave a lasting impression. The special effects, mostly used during the action sequences, are minimal and serviceable, focusing more on practical stunts than CGI, which suits the film’s grounded style.
Overall, Murder Mystery is a fun, if formulaic, ride that benefits greatly from the charisma of its leads. It’s not a groundbreaking film by any means, but it’s an enjoyable one, especially for fans of Sandler and Aniston. The movie delivers exactly what it promises—a light, entertaining watch with a few laughs and a touch of suspense. For those looking for a simple, enjoyable movie night, Murder Mystery is a solid choice. However, if you’re hoping for a film that challenges the conventions of the genre or offers a genuinely surprising mystery, you might want to look elsewhere.
