Did a Major Plot Change Cause Thursday Murder Club's Fall on Netflix?

The adaptation of Richard Osman's bestseller, The Thursday Murder Club, has garnered mixed reactions since its Netflix release, with fans divided over significant plot changes, particularly concerning the character Bogdan. While the film initially climbed to the top of Netflix rankings, it has since slipped, drawing attention to the adaptation's reception and its divergence from the source material.

Last updated: 18 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Thursday Murder Club film adaptation faced backlash for altering key plot elements from the book.
• Character Bogdan's storyline and motivations differ significantly between the book and the film.
• The film was initially well-received but has fallen in Netflix rankings within weeks of release.
• Critics and fans have expressed disappointment, particularly regarding the casting and portrayal of Bogdan.
• The film's limited cinema release may have affected its overall viewership on Netflix.

The Thursday Murder Club: Overview

Released on Netflix following a premiere at Leicester Square, The Thursday Murder Club features an ensemble cast led by esteemed actors such as Dame Helen Mirren and Sir Ben Kingsley. The film revolves around a group of retirees who engage in solving cold cases, blending elements of comedy and mystery. Its initial reception was enthusiastic, with the film quickly reaching number one on Netflix in several countries.

Initial Success and Rapid Decline

The film's launch was marked by significant viewership, amassing 43.4 million views globally. However, it has since slipped to third place in Netflix rankings, overshadowed by titles like KPop Demon Hunters. This decline raises questions about viewer retention and the impact of narrative choices on audience engagement.

Controversial Changes to the Plot

One of the most controversial aspects of the adaptation is the portrayal of Bogdan, played by Henry Lloyd-Hughes. In the original novel, Bogdan's motivations for murder stem from a personal vendetta against Tony Curran, who is responsible for his friend Kaz's death. In contrast, the film alters this backstory, presenting a different motive that has left many fans dissatisfied.

Fan Reactions and Author's Response

The changes to Bogdan's character have sparked significant backlash on social media, with fans expressing their frustration over the adaptation's divergence from the source material. In a recent newsletter, Richard Osman acknowledged the plot differences and hinted at the potential for future adaptations, despite the mixed reactions.

Comparison of Book vs. Film Motives

• Book: Bogdan seeks revenge for his friend Kaz's murder.
• Film: Bogdan's motivations are altered, leading to a different narrative arc.
• Book: Elizabeth and Stephen knowingly assist Bogdan.
• Film: Bogdan is arrested, diverging from the original storyline.

Criticism of Casting Choices

The casting of a British actor for Bogdan has raised eyebrows, with critics arguing that it fails to represent the character's Polish heritage authentically. Anna Tryc-Bromley, director of the Polish Cultural Institute, described this decision as a "comedy of errors," emphasising the need for more nuanced portrayals of Polish characters in film. The discrepancy in language proficiency between Helen Mirren's character and Bogdan further compounds the criticism.

Comparative Performance on Streaming Platforms

Despite its initial popularity, The Thursday Murder Club's performance pales in comparison to other recent Netflix releases. For instance, Happy Gilmore 2 achieved a staggering 46.7 million views within its first three days, demonstrating the competitive landscape that The Thursday Murder Club must navigate. Similarly, My Oxford Year garnered impressive viewership, suggesting that audience preferences are shifting rapidly.

Limited Cinema Release Impact

The Thursday Murder Club was released in only about 30 cinemas across the UK, significantly limiting its exposure. This restricted rollout may have hindered its potential viewership and contributed to its later decline on Netflix. In an era where streaming content competes fiercely for attention, such limitations can have a lasting impact on a film's success.

Future of The Thursday Murder Club Franchise

The mixed reception of the film raises questions about the future of The Thursday Murder Club as a franchise. Despite Osman's optimistic tone in his newsletter, the significant changes to beloved characters like Bogdan may deter fans from engaging with potential sequels. The complexities of adapting a beloved book into a film are evident, particularly when key character arcs are altered.

The Role of Audience Expectations

Adaptations often grapple with audience expectations, especially when the source material has garnered a dedicated fanbase. The Thursday Murder Club's deviation from the book may have alienated some viewers who anticipated a faithful representation of the characters and plot. Understanding the balance between artistic interpretation and fan expectations is crucial for future adaptations.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead?

As The Thursday Murder Club navigates its mixed reviews and fluctuating viewership, the future of the franchise remains uncertain. The reactions to changes in character portrayal, particularly Bogdan, highlight the challenges of adapting beloved narratives for the screen. What remains to be seen is whether the franchise can reconcile these differences and regain the trust of its audience, or if it will continue to face backlash as it moves forward.

With the ongoing evolution of content consumption and audience preferences, the next steps for The Thursday Murder Club will be pivotal in shaping its legacy. Will the filmmakers heed the feedback from fans, or will they continue to forge their own path? Only time will tell. #ThursdayMurderClub #RichardOsman #NetflixAdaptation

FAQs

What is The Thursday Murder Club about?

The Thursday Murder Club follows a group of pensioners at a retirement village who come together to solve cold cases, blending elements of mystery and comedy.

Why has The Thursday Murder Club film received criticism?

Criticism stems from significant plot changes, particularly concerning the character Bogdan, whose motivations and storyline differ markedly from the original book.

How well did The Thursday Murder Club perform on Netflix?

The film initially performed well, achieving 43.4 million views, but has since dropped to third place in Netflix rankings, facing tough competition from other releases.

What did Richard Osman say about the film adaptation?

Richard Osman acknowledged the differences between the film and the book in his newsletter, expressing hope for future adaptations while addressing fan concerns.

How did the limited cinema release affect the film?

The Thursday Murder Club's limited release in approximately 30 UK cinemas likely restricted its exposure and contributed to its lower viewership on Netflix.