Part 1

For the most part this episode follows the book pretty closely, with only the addition of the character of Malcolm, the not-very-bright bicyclist being the main deviation. The book and teleplay both open with the Bantry's maid awakening them with the news that a body is lying in their library. The casting of Hickson is a slight disappointment since she seems too introspective most of the time, but it's a slight quibble in a mostly enjoyable first part.

The Bantries awaken from their sleep to discover a body in their library, a blonde, a platinum blonde.

It's still a brilliant book, so the bar was set very high. Not many changes thus far, it's pretty faithful. As for casting, Joan Hickson is instantly incredible, she still is Miss Marple, Moray Watson and Gwen Taylor are terrific also.

It's very nicely made, gorgeous costumes and attention to period detail.

One observation I would make is the pacing, it's about three hours long, you could argue that it drags its feet a little, that's me being picky, it's absorbing.

Miss Marple is given a wonderful introduction, we're left in no doubts at all what to expect from her going forward. Inspector Slack also begins in the manner to which we'd become used to.

What a marvellous way to have spend boxing day evening back in 1984.

9/10.