In period pieces and Agatha Christie-style mysteries, sometimes the setting is as much of a character as the detectives. See How They Run is a comedic mystery written by Mark Chappell, directed by Tom George, and staring Saoirse Ronan, Sam Rockwell, Harris Dickinson, Adrien Brody, Ruth Wilson, Charlie Cooper, and Sian Clifford.
Set in 1950's London, an uncouth Hollywood director named Leo Kopernick (Brody) is visiting the West End to adapt a stage play when he is brutally murdered. Enter stage left, the juxtaposed Scotland Yard detectives! Plucky Constable Stalker (Ronan) and jaded Inspector Stoppard (Rockwell) are on the case. Can they solve the murder before the killer drops the curtain on more of the cast?
While the acting is wonderful from all parties, Saoirse Ronan steals the show. She is a delight in the role of spunky and lovable Constable Stalker. Her penchant for jumping to conclusions is relatable. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and her doe-eyed naivety is charming.
The film gives homage to +The Mousetrap, a play written by Agatha Christie, which opened in 1952 and which ran continuously until March of 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic interrupted it for a little over a year until it reopened in May of 2021. Not only is the play the center of the film, Chappell and George also play with traditional Agatha Christie tropes within the movie itself. All the characters have a motive. The red herrings are well-executed. Although, it is surprising they did not choose to set-up the story as a locked-room mystery, seeing as how the detectives investigate outside of the theater.
See How They Run isn't quite self-aware, but it makes sure not to take itself too seriously. The dialogue and the setting almost feel like a Wes Anderson movie with dry wit and humor that are performed earnestly.
The setting is lush and comfortable with the luxurious theaters, cozy bookish apartments, and the hustle of a 1950s era police station. See How They Run feels like the perfect movie to start off the autumn season.
Shows like "Only Murders in the Building" and movies like "Knives Out have led the revival of the cozy murder mystery. These are a nice break from depressing hard-boiled and procedural shows. Moviegoers who love a fun mystery, quirky characters, and witty comedy will enjoy the antics of See How They Run. And while it might not have the staying power of "The Mousetrap," it is a fun romp and an entertaining way to spend an evening with friends.