The Thursday Murder Club: A Cozy Comedy Mystery for Armchair Detectives

The Thursday Murder Club is a delightful movie mystery ideal for fans who enjoy their crime stories cozy, with a dash of broad humor. Based on Richard Osman’s debut novel published in September 2020, the film quickly gained popularity, featuring a stellar cast of pensioners bringing Osman’s quirky characters to life. Now, available on Netflix, this charming adaptation is directed by none other than Chris Columbus, renowned for Home Alone.

What’s The Thursday Murder Club About?

Set in the picturesque retirement community of Cooper’s Chase, the story revolves around a group of residents who, every Thursday, gather in the jigsaw room to investigate cold cases from their past. The community, with its endless sunshine and quirky amenities—support llamas, archery, and life drawing lessons—appears idyllic. But beneath this façade, the residents stumble upon real murder cases.

The initial mystery involves an unsolved 1973 case—the so-called “woman in white” who tragically fell out of a window. As the story unfolds, the club faces contemporary threats involving unscrupulous businessmen, gangsters, and the ownership rights of Cooper’s Chase itself. Using their wisdom, cunning, and a healthy appetite for cake, they aim to solve these crimes and protect their home.

Who Are the Members of The Thursday Murder Club?

Netflix’s adaptation brings Osman’s characters to vibrant life, with each member possessing unique skills—think of them as the Avengers of elderly sleuths or a geriatric Justice League.

• Elizabeth (Helen Mirren): The club’s leader, possibly a former government spy, exudes authority and sharp wit.
• Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley): A retired psychiatrist, often the smartest person in the room.
• Ron (Pierce Brosnan): A tough, retired trade union leader with a rough edge.
• Celia Imrie’s Joyce: A new addition, a former nurse whose medical expertise proves invaluable.

Pierce Brosnan's performance, despite a questionable cockney accent, is memorable. The chemistry among the cast makes their teamwork feel authentic and engaging.

Heartfelt Moments and Comedic Brilliance

Helen Mirren shines in scenes with her husband, Stephen (Jonathan Pryce), who suffers from dementia. Their tender interactions offer touching moments that are both heartwarming and heartbreaking.

While the cast delivers plenty of laughs—especially Brosnan, who excels in humorous scenes like exercising poolside with elderly friends, fooling police officers, or giving them a dressing down in his wedding suit—the film also contains poignant moments addressing loneliness, health issues, and aging.

Daniel Mays provides comic relief as the increasingly frazzled DCI Hughes, often outwitted and outmaneuvered by the clever residents.

Is The Thursday Murder Club Worth Watching?

This mystery film keeps viewers engaged with its unpredictable storyline and snappy dialogue, penned by Katy Brand and Suzanne Heathcoate. The 118-minute runtime flies by thanks to its blend of comedy, mystery, and touching moments.

Though it features some contrived plot points—like a dictaphone and a boxing stance—and occasionally heavy-handed messages about aging and gender, the film’s humor and emotional beats shine through. The quieter scenes, exploring themes of loneliness and aging, are handled with sensitivity, often resonating deeply.

Final Verdict: 4/5

While some may find it overly twee, The Thursday Murder Club faithfully captures the spirit of Osman’s novel, balancing murder, humor, and touching reflections on growing old. It is a charming, well-acted, and heartfelt film that might just leave a tear in your eye when the credits roll.

The Thursday Murder Club premieres on Netflix on August 28, 2025. For more thrilling options, explore our list of the best thrillers on the streaming platform.