Last weekend, I finally got around to watching See How They Run, and honestly? I had way more fun than I expected.
Going in, I thought it would be just another murder mystery. You know the type - stuffy British accents, someone dies in a fancy house, and we spend two hours figuring out who did it. But this movie surprised me. It's actually pretty funny and doesn't take itself too seriously. Plus, it made me curious about The Mousetrap - that famous play that's been running in London for over 70 years straight (which is pretty incredible when you think about it).
What's It About?
The story happens in 1950s London, where someone gets murdered during a play called The Mousetrap. If you've never heard of it, it's this Agatha Christie play that's literally been running in London theaters since 1952 - same play, different actors, over 70 years straight. Pretty wild, right? Anyway, the victim is this obnoxious American movie director who pretty much everyone hated.
Two detectives have to solve the case: Inspector Stoppard (Sam Rockwell), who looks like he'd rather be anywhere else, and Constable Stalker (Saoirse Ronan), who's basically the most enthusiastic police officer you've ever seen. They're complete opposites, which makes for some genuinely funny moments.
The Good Stuff
Saoirse Ronan (you might know her from Lady Bird or Little Women) absolutely steals this movie. I've seen her in serious dramas before, but I had no idea she was this funny. Her character Constable Stalker is like that friend who gets way too excited about everything - she's constantly taking notes, making bad puns, and just being adorable. Every scene with her is a delight.
The movie looks great too. Everything feels very theatrical and stylish, which makes sense since half of it takes place in a theater. The costumes are spot-on for the 1950s, and the whole thing has this cozy, old-fashioned vibe that I really enjoyed.
I also loved how the movie pokes fun at murder mysteries in general. It knows exactly what kind of movie it is and has fun with all the usual tropes. There are moments where characters basically wink at the camera, and somehow it works.
The Not So Good
Sam Rockwell plays the older detective, and while he's usually great, he felt a bit too low-energy here. I get that his character is supposed to be tired and jaded, but sometimes he was so quiet I almost forgot he was there. The movie really comes alive when Ronan is on screen.
The mystery itself isn't super complicated. I figured out who the killer was pretty early on, and I'm usually terrible at these things. But honestly, I don't think that's the point. This isn't trying to be the next Knives Out - it's more interested in having fun than keeping you guessing.
The ending felt a bit rushed too. When we finally learn why the murder happened, it's actually pretty sad and serious. But then the movie quickly moves on to more jokes, which felt a little awkward.
Should You Watch It?
If you're looking for a serious, complex murder mystery, this probably isn't for you. But if you want something light and entertaining for a Friday night, definitely give it a shot.
It's especially fun if you're familiar with Agatha Christie's work - there are lots of little references and jokes that fans will appreciate. But even if you've never read a mystery novel in your life, you'll probably still enjoy it.
The movie clocks in at just over an hour and a half, so it doesn't overstay its welcome. And Saoirse Ronan is so charming that she makes the whole thing worthwhile.
Sometimes you just want to watch something that makes you smile, and this movie delivers on that front. It's the kind of film that would be perfect for a cozy night in with some popcorn and hot chocolate.
Watch on Apple TV