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Full Breakdown

Jonathan Entwistle to Direct Modern Adaptation of Agatha Christie's *Endless Night*

12/10/2025, 11:30:23 PM

Overview of the Project

Jonathan Entwistle is set to direct a modern psychological thriller adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel *Endless Night*, produced by Studiocanal. The screenplay, adapted by Emily Siegel, centers on a young hustler who becomes embroiled in a complex web of deception after a romantic involvement with a volatile American heiress and her assistant. The project is part of Studiocanal's ongoing efforts to revitalize classic literary works, following a series of successful adaptations.

Background on Agatha Christie’s *Endless Night*

Originally published in 1967, *Endless Night* is considered one of Agatha Christie's favorites and is distinct from her more famous detective series featuring Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. The novel follows Michael Rogers, a twenty-two-year-old who works as a chauffeur for the enigmatic designer Rudolf Santonix. The story has previously been adapted into a feature film in 1972, directed by Sidney Gilliat.

Production Team and Timeline

The production will be overseen by Andrew Rona and Alex Heineman of The Picture Company, with Studiocanal executives Ron Halpern and Shana Eddy-Grouf serving as executive producers. While the film does not yet have a cast attached, it is positioned within a broader trend of adapting Christie’s works, which includes a BBC and BritBox television series also based on *Endless Night*.

Current Landscape of Christie Adaptations

Agatha Christie adaptations remain popular, with multiple projects in development. Following the success of Kenneth Branagh’s adaptations of Christie’s works, 20th Century Studios announced plans for adaptations of *And Then There Were None*, *Witness for the Prosecution*, and *Miss Marple*. Additionally, Netflix is preparing to release an adaptation of *The Seven Dials Mystery* in January 2026, featuring a notable ensemble cast.

Criticism & Opposition

While adaptations of Agatha Christie’s works continue to attract attention, there is a mixed reception regarding their execution. Critics have noted that while some adaptations receive positive reviews, audience ratings can be significantly lower, indicating a disconnect between critical acclaim and public reception.

Official Statements & Responses

Studiocanal has not released specific comments regarding the adaptation's direction or casting. However, the ongoing interest in Christie's works suggests a robust market for such adaptations. Jonathan Entwistle, known for his work on *The End of the F***ing World* and *Karate Kid: Legends*, is viewed as a promising choice for this reimagining.

What's Next

As production progresses, further announcements regarding casting and filming schedules are anticipated. The dual adaptations of *Endless Night* by both Studiocanal and the BBC highlight the enduring appeal of Agatha Christie’s storytelling and the potential for fresh interpretations in modern cinema.