Agatha and the Curse of Ishtar

Agatha and the Curse of Ishtar (2019)

Agatha and the Curse of Ishtar (2019) is a British television drama film that reimagines a chapter of mystery writer Agatha Christie’s life through fictional events. Set in 1928, shortly after her famous eleven-day disappearance and divorce, the film follows Christie as she embarks on a journey to Iraq to escape public scrutiny and personal turmoil. There, she finds herself caught in a dangerous real-life murder mystery at an archaeological dig site.

Directed by Sam Yates and written by Tom Dalton, the film blends historical fiction with elements of classic whodunit. Christie, portrayed by Lyndsey Marshal, arrives in Mesopotamia seeking inspiration and solitude but is soon drawn into a complex web of murder and intrigue. At the heart of the dig lies the ancient temple of Ishtar, where strange events—including a suspicious shooting and the hanging of a pet monkey—begin to unfold. Christie, using her sharp observational skills, begins to investigate.

The film also introduces a fictionalized romance between Christie and a young archaeologist, Max Mallowan, played by Jonah Hauer-King. Their chemistry is subtle and develops alongside the mystery, foreshadowing their real-life relationship, as Mallowan would eventually become Christie’s second husband. Other supporting characters add layers of suspicion and drama, creating a classic closed-circle mystery atmosphere within the confines of the desert excavation site.

Visually, Agatha and the Curse of Ishtar benefits from strong production values. Though it was filmed in Malta rather than Iraq, the sets, costumes, and props convincingly recreate the feel of a 1920s British archaeological mission. The period-accurate details and sweeping desert landscapes help immerse the viewer in Christie’s fictional world, echoing the settings that inspired several of her novels, such as Murder in Mesopotamia.

Performance-wise, Lyndsey Marshal presents a grounded, introspective version of Agatha Christie. She portrays a woman burdened by grief yet driven by curiosity. Jonah Hauer-King adds youthful charm and energy, though some viewers felt his characterization lacked depth. The supporting cast includes seasoned actors who portray scholars, archaeologists, and British officials—all potential suspects in the unfolding mystery.

Reception for the film was mixed. Some praised its stylish execution and the novel idea of putting Christie in the middle of her own murder investigation. Others criticized it for slow pacing, a lack of genuine suspense, and underdeveloped characters. The plot, while intriguing in its concept, was seen by some as predictable and occasionally implausible. The romance subplot, while lighthearted, didn’t resonate with all viewers and felt undercooked to some critics.

In conclusion, Agatha and the Curse of Ishtar offers a light, atmospheric mystery for fans of period dramas and Agatha Christie’s work. Though it may not reach the narrative complexity of her best novels, it provides an entertaining exploration of how her real-life experiences could have influenced her fiction. With its rich setting, nostalgic tone, and fictionalized look into Christie’s life, the film serves as a charming, if imperfect, homage to the Queen of Crime.