Why Didn't They Ask Evans?

"Why Didn't They Ask Evans?" is a 1980 British made-for-television mystery film that brilliantly translates Agatha Christie's thrilling writing to the screen. The film is directed by the capable John Davies and Tony Wharmby. It stars the versatile trajectory-making stars; Francesca Annis, John Gielgud, and Bernard Miles, who each bring to life unique characters, making the mystery even more engrossing.

The heart of the story revolves around an enigmatic phrase: "Why didn't they ask Evans?". The film begins with a chilling scene nestled in the calm beauty of rural England. Bobby Jones (James Warwick), a roving soul with an unrestricted spirit, is taking part in a friendly game of golf when he stumbles upon the sight of a dying man. In his last moments, the man stirs from unconsciousness to utter just one thing to Bobby, "Why didn't they ask Evans?" This mysterious phrase sparks Bobby's curiosity.

Being a vicar's son doesn't hamper Bobby's innate desire to investigate the mystery. Furnished with an irrepressible excitement for adventure, Bobby delves into solving the puzzle with his childhood friend, Lady Frances Derwent (Francesca Annis). Lady ‘Frankie', renowned for her daring nature, is wholeheartedly in the game, and together they form an amateur detective team. Bobby and Frankie showcase quintessential Christie-like impulsiveness, agility, witty dialogue, and depth, bringing a unique energy to the narrative.

The uncharted territory they venture into is shot beautifully by cinematographer Peter Jessop, enveloping the audience into the scenic portrayal of a typical English countryside, peppered with grand manor houses, idyllic villages, and beautiful cliffs overlooking the sea. The lavish and authentic sets, intricate costuming, and atmospheric lighting further enhance the period setting of the 1930s. Their shedding of urban comforts and immersing themselves into this unfamiliar world unfurls the narrative in a series of unexpected events, with numerous suspenseful encounters paving the way to many thrilling moments.

The film also features stellar performances by veteran actors John Gielgud and Bernard Miles. Gielgud, who portrays a relentless doctor, brings depth and drama to the storytelling through his nuanced performance. Bernard Miles, by playing an essential character to the narrative arc, adds another vibrant color to the palette.

Director John Davies flawlessly brings out these idiosyncrasies in a manner that allows the audience to be firmly rooted in the rich storyline, while the script ensures that the cast's chemistry is palpable. The film moves at a steady pace, continually feeding the audience with small nuggets of information, making them invested in the storyline bit by bit. An interesting sub-narrative is also how Bobby's and Frankie's friendship evolves into possible romantic engagement, subtly portrayed without overshadowing the main mystery.

Like any Agatha Christie tale, the narrative is full of red herrings, twists, and surprises that maintain the suspense until the end. All the clues and incidents cleverly intermingle and slowly build a web that keeps pulling you in. With every step Bobby and Frankie take, the audience is left to speculate and reevaluate their theories, making this film intriguing and interactive in equal measure.

Evoking a strong sense of nostalgia and bathed in quintessential British elegance, "Why Didn't They Ask Evans?" efficiently captures the essence of Christie’s works. It masterfully blends elements of mystery, thrill, drama, humor and romance into its plot. There is a dynamic energy throughout the film which keeps the audience engaged and captivated with the various intriguing plot devices and storytelling techniques. It is a captivating film that boasts of a complex and layered narrative interwoven with stunning performances and skilled cinematography.

In conclusion, the 1980 production of "Why Didn't They Ask Evans?" is an exhilarating journey into the minds of Christie's characters and her unique storytelling methods. It is a film not just for lovers of Agatha Christie, but for anyone who appreciates a good classic narrative, rounded characters, and the thrill of a good mystery. The visually stunning cinematography and the charming performances by the lead actors ensure that this dramatic whodunit deeply engages the viewer, asking continuously: “Why didn’t they ask Evans?”