There must be something about twiddling that infamous moustache that appeals to Kenneth Branagh to see him return to the role of Hercule Poirot for a third time.

The Agatha Christie created character, who first made his appearance in 1920, has long since fascinated actors, including the likes of Orson Welles, Peter Ustinov and John Malkovich, with his outstanding detecting abilities, so it’s no wonder that Branagh is back for more.

Living amongst the many canals of Venice is the world’s greatest detective, Hercule Poirot (Branagh). He’s not there on a case however, as he’s actually retired from the detecting game. That doesn’t stop a large number of wannabe clients from trying to persuade him otherwise, and come out of retirement to solve their case.

He’s adamant however, that he’s leaving his old line of work behind. But when an old friend comes to visit him, American writer Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey), dangles an inviting carrot in the way of a séance, Poirot can’t help but bite.

Little does he know that an evening debunking a rouse of talking to the dead soon spirals into something far more sinister.

You can tell that it wasn’t just the iconic facial hair that saw Branagh return as both director and star for this latest entry in the franchise. Poirot is in a darker place now, turning his back on his long career, and yet unable to fully embrace life after it.

And then there’s the story, which not only features murderous events but also embraces the supernatural; it all takes place in a gothic Venetian property, on Halloween no less. This then, as the film’s title suggests, gives it an appealing air of the occult, which even Poirot himself initially can’t explain. This adds an extra layer to the usual Poirot proceedings, lending itself wonderfully to the mystery of it all.

But with this eclectic cast, that also includes Jamie Dornan, Kelly Reilly, Riccardo Scamarcio and Michelle Yeoh, also maintain the necessary whodunit credentials that you expect from Poirot.

And Branagh appears to genuinely relish playing him, especially in a more vulnerable state, placing him against the atmospheric backdrop of a foreboding looking Venice.

With Branagh at the helm, it’s yet another welcome outing for Belgian’s brightest, brilliant mind, who really is on top form in this atmospheric thriller, making it well worth investigating.