Netflix is set to breathe cinematic life into one of the most beloved modern British novels with The Thursday Murder Club, a mystery-comedy premiering August 28, 2025. Adapted from Richard Osman’s bestselling 2020 debut, the film blends sharp humor, warm character dynamics, and an old-fashioned whodunit charm—with a cast that reads like a British acting hall of fame.
The Plot: Retirees Turn Sleuths
Set in the peaceful Coopers Chase retirement village in Kent, England, the story follows four unlikely amateur detectives—Elizabeth (Helen Mirren), a former MI5 agent; Ron (Pierce Brosnan), an ex-union leader with a temper; Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley), a meticulous retired psychiatrist; and Joyce (Celia Imrie), a sweet but sharp former nurse. Every Thursday, they gather to reopen cold cases… until a real murder happens on their doorstep.
With a real killer potentially in their midst, this team of senior sleuths decides to solve the mystery themselves—using their collective wisdom, wit, and life experience in ways no one sees coming. What starts as a hobby becomes a high-stakes game that puts their friendship—and their lives—at risk.
🌟 A Star-Studded Cast
The ensemble is packed with prestige. Oscar-winners and household names bring each quirky character to life:
- Helen Mirren as Elizabeth, whose past in espionage gives her an edge.
- Pierce Brosnan trades Bond’s tuxedo for Ron’s working-class bravado.
- Ben Kingsley adds gravitas as the analytically minded Ibrahim.
- Celia Imrie gives Joyce an affable but observant energy.
They’re joined by David Tennant, Naomi Ackie, Jonathan Pryce, Richard E. Grant, Daniel Mays, Tom Ellis, Henry Lloyd-Hughes, and Ingrid Oliver—making this one of Netflix’s most decorated casts to date.
🎬 Behind the Scenes
The film is directed by Chris Columbus, best known for Home Alone, Mrs. Doubtfire, and the first two Harry Potter films—no stranger to balancing heart, humor, and wonder. The screenplay is written by Katy Brand and Suzanne Heathcote (Killing Eve, Fear the Walking Dead), with Amblin Entertainment producing and Steven Spielberg on board as executive producer.
Author Richard Osman, while serving as an executive producer, chose to stay out of the scriptwriting process. As he explained in interviews, he trusted the filmmakers to reimagine his story for a different medium while he focused on writing future entries in the book series.
🎥 Teaser Trailer & What to Expect
A teaser released May 29 previews the film’s quirky tone, picturesque English setting, and the delightful chemistry among its leads. The trailer captures the warm, cozy vibes of British murder mysteries like Midsomer Murders or Agatha Raisin, but with a distinctly modern twist. Fans of Knives Out, Only Murders in the Building, or Death in Paradise will likely find a lot to love here.
Expect banter, red herrings, and plot twists wrapped in sharp dialogue and soft cardigans.
📚 What’s Next for the Book Series?
Osman’s Thursday Murder Club franchise has become a literary juggernaut, with over 10 million copies sold worldwide. The fifth installment, The Impossible Fortune, is due out in September 2025, just weeks after the film’s release. It’s expected to continue the gang’s adventures and further expand the series’ lore.
There are already whispers that if the film succeeds, a franchise of sequels could follow—mirroring the book series’ four currently published novels (The Man Who Died Twice, The Bullet That Missed, The Last Devil to Die, and the upcoming The Impossible Fortune).
Netflix’s The Thursday Murder Club promises to be more than just another adaptation—it’s a tribute to lifelong friendships, unsolved mysteries, and the idea that retirement doesn’t have to mean retreat. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the books or coming in fresh, this cozy crime caper is shaping up to be one of 2025’s must-watch originals.
Key Takeaways
- “The Thursday Murder Club” features an all-star cast including Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan as retirees who solve murders for fun until confronted with a real case.
- Netflix’s adaptation brings Richard Osman’s bestselling novel to life under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker Chris Columbus.
- The mystery-comedy blends humor with suspense while showcasing the unexpected detective skills of its elderly protagonists.
The Story and Characters of ‘The Thursday Murder Club’
The Thursday Murder Club brings together a colorful cast of elderly amateur detectives who find themselves tackling a real murder. This adaptation of Richard Osman’s bestselling novel combines wit, charm, and mystery in a retirement community setting.
Plot Overview
The Thursday Murder Club follows a group of friends living in a retirement home who gather weekly to solve cold case murders for fun. What begins as a casual hobby turns serious when they find themselves entangled in a genuine murder investigation.
The retirees use their varied life experiences and skills to investigate the crime. Their methodical approach to casual sleuthing is put to the test as they navigate complex clues and dangerous situations.
The story balances humor with genuine mystery elements. When a developer associated with their retirement community is found dead, the group must solve the case before more people get hurt.
Main Characters: Elizabeth, Ron, Ibrahim, and Joyce
The film features an extraordinary ensemble cast portraying the four main amateur sleuths:
- Elizabeth (Helen Mirren): A former intelligence operative with extensive experience in espionage and investigation
- Ron (Pierce Brosnan): A charismatic former union leader who knows how to work a room
- Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley): A methodical retired psychiatrist with an analytical mind
- Joyce (Celia Imrie): A former nurse with keen observational skills and practical knowledge
Together, they form a group of senior sleuths whose combined talents make them surprisingly effective detectives. Each character brings unique perspectives and abilities to their murder investigations.
Setting: Retirement Home and Cold Case Murders
The primary setting is an upscale retirement community where the four friends have established their Thursday Murder Club. This peaceful environment contrasts with the grim cold cases they study and the real murder that disrupts their community.
The retirement home provides both limitations and advantages for their detective work. While they may face physical constraints of aging, they benefit from being underestimated by others.
Their Thursday meetings typically involve reviewing unsolved murder cases from police files they’ve acquired through connections. These cold case discussions showcase their analytical abilities and give them practice for when they find themselves stuck in a real whodunit.
The setting creates a unique juxtaposition between the peaceful retirement life and the thrill of solving murders, whether cold cases or frighteningly current ones.
Star-Studded Cast and Crew
Netflix has assembled an exceptional ensemble of award-winning talent for “The Thursday Murder Club,” bringing Richard Osman’s beloved characters to life with remarkable star power. The film’s impressive roster includes some of the most celebrated actors in cinema alongside rising talents.
Leading Roles: Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and More
Oscar-winner Helen Mirren takes on the role of Elizabeth, the shrewd former spy who leads the amateur detective group. Her sharp wit and intelligence make her perfect for this cunning character.
Pierce Brosnan joins as another core member of the club, bringing his signature charm and sophistication to the retirement community setting. His character’s relationship with Mirren’s Elizabeth promises to deliver both humor and heart.
Ben Kingsley and Jonathan Pryce round out the central quartet of retirees, with Kingsley likely drawing on his exceptional range to portray one of the book’s complex characters. The chemistry between these veteran performers shines in early promotional materials.
Richard E. Grant adds another layer of acting excellence to the production, bringing his distinctive presence to this mystery-comedy.
Supporting Cast and Notable Cameos
The supporting cast features an impressive array of British talent. Celia Imrie, known for her work in “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel,” brings her comedic timing to the retirement community setting.
Rising star Naomi Ackie represents the younger generation in the cast, potentially playing PC Donna De Freitas from the novel. Her character likely serves as the bridge between the retirees and the official police investigation.
The ensemble also includes Henry Lloyd-Hughes, Tom Ellis, and Daniel Mays in key supporting roles. David Tennant and Paul Freeman reportedly make memorable appearances, though details of their characters remain under wraps.
Katy Brand joins the cast, adding her comedic expertise to the mix and enhancing the film’s balance of mystery and humor.
Director Chris Columbus and Creative Team
Veteran director Chris Columbus, known for “Home Alone” and the first two “Harry Potter” films, brings his expertise in blending comedy with heart to “The Thursday Murder Club.” His experience with ensemble casts makes him well-suited for this project.
The screenplay adaptation comes from Suzanne Heathcote, whose work on “Killing Eve” demonstrates her skill with balancing tension, humor, and complex characters. Her adaptation reportedly stays faithful to the spirit of Osman’s novel while making necessary adjustments for the screen.
The production team has created an authentic English retirement village setting that serves as both a cozy backdrop and a character in its own right. Filming locations captured the quintessential British atmosphere that fans of the novel will recognize.
From Bestseller to Screen: Adaptation Journey
The transformation of Richard Osman’s beloved mystery series into a Netflix film has been a carefully orchestrated process combining star power with faithful storytelling. The journey from page to screen has preserved the charm and intrigue that made the books international bestsellers.
Adapting Richard Osman’s Novels
Richard Osman’s debut novel “The Thursday Murder Club” became an instant phenomenon when published in September 2020, quickly becoming one of the fastest-selling fiction debuts in UK history. The book’s success spawned a series including “The Man Who Died Twice,” “The Bullet That Missed,” and “The Last Devil to Die.”
The film adaptation focuses primarily on the first book while incorporating elements from the sequels. Screenwriters Katy Brand and Suzanne Heathcote worked closely with Osman to maintain the essence of the charming retirement village sleuths while adapting the complex mystery plot for the screen.
Osman, who serves as an executive producer, has been actively involved in the adaptation process, ensuring the film captures the books’ signature blend of humor, heart, and mystery.
Amblin Entertainment and Production Details
Amblin Entertainment, founded by Steven Spielberg, secured the rights to the book series after an intense bidding war. The production company saw immense potential in the property’s universal appeal and unique premise.
Director Chris Columbus (Home Alone, Harry Potter) was brought on to helm the project, bringing his expertise in blending comedy with heart-warming storytelling. Principal photography began in May 2024 at various locations across the UK, including a picturesque retirement community that serves as the fictional Coopers Chase.
The production assembled an impressive ensemble cast featuring British acting royalty. Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie portray the four senior sleuths, with supporting roles from Richard E. Grant, Naomi Ackie, and Jonathan Pryce.
Release Date and Streaming on Netflix
“The Thursday Murder Club” is scheduled for release on Netflix on August 28, 2025. The streaming giant acquired distribution rights in a strategic move to bolster its original film offerings and attract viewers who enjoy British mysteries.
Netflix released the first teaser trailer on May 29, giving audiences a glimpse of the crime comedy. The brief preview showcases the chemistry between the four leads as they tackle a murder case that hits close to home.
The film will be available exclusively on Netflix in most territories, though select regions may see a limited theatrical release. Netflix has expressed confidence in the project’s potential, with early discussions about adapting the subsequent novels depending on viewer reception.
A Unique Mystery-Comedy Experience
“The Thursday Murder Club” blends traditional murder mystery elements with sharp humor, creating a fresh take on the whodunit genre. The film’s stellar cast brings depth to this retirement home mystery that balances clever detective work with genuine laughs.
Whodunit and Mystery Elements
The film centers on four retirees who meet weekly at their retirement village, Coopers Chase, to solve cold case murders as a hobby. When an actual murder occurs close to home, these amateur sleuths find themselves applying their theoretical detective skills to a real-life situation.
The mystery follows classic whodunit traditions with a modern twist. Each character brings unique investigative skills to the table – one has police experience, another analytical prowess, and so on. The plot likely features red herrings, multiple suspects, and clever clues that viewers can follow along with.
The narrative structure pays homage to classic mystery writers while adding contemporary elements that make the story accessible to today’s audiences. The retirement village setting provides an unexpected backdrop for murder, creating an interesting contrast between the peaceful surroundings and sinister events.
Balancing Comedy and Suspense
The film achieves a delicate balance between genuine suspense and humor. Unlike pure comedies like Mrs. Doubtfire, “The Thursday Murder Club” maintains real stakes while incorporating witty dialogue and comedic situations.
The comedy stems naturally from the characters’ personalities and the incongruity of elderly people investigating murders. Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan’s chemistry promises sharp banter, while Ben Kingsley likely brings dry wit to his role.
Director Chris Columbus, known for family comedies, brings his experience in balancing tones to this project. The film never sacrifices the mystery elements for cheap laughs, instead using humor to enhance character development and provide moments of relief between tense scenes.
This approach creates a viewing experience similar to “Knives Out” – genuinely intriguing as a mystery while entertaining as a comedy.
Official Trailer and First Look
The recently released trailer showcases the film’s unique tone and outstanding cast. It opens with Joyce (likely played by Helen Mirren) being introduced to Coopers Chase retirement village and the murder club.
The trailer highlights both the comedic elements – seniors using unconventional methods to solve crimes – and the thriller aspects when they become involved in a real murder case. Brief glimpses of important plot points are shown without revealing the mystery’s solution.
Visually, the film features bright, colorful scenes in the retirement community contrasted with darker, more atmospheric moments during the investigation. The production design creates a cozy English setting that feels both inviting and potentially dangerous.
Fans of the original Richard Osman novel will notice faithful character representations while newcomers can appreciate the clear establishment of each character’s unique personality and role within the group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions about Netflix’s adaptation of “The Thursday Murder Club” movie, including cast details, release information, and viewing options.
When is ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ movie scheduled to be released on Netflix?
“The Thursday Murder Club” is scheduled to be released in 2025. According to the search results, the film is listed as coming in 2025 on IMDb.
Netflix has confirmed the project but has not yet announced an exact release date beyond the 2025 timeframe.
Who is included in the main cast of Netflix’s film adaptation of ‘The Thursday Murder Club’?
The film features an impressive ensemble cast of award-winning actors. Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan lead the cast, alongside Ben Kingsley, Richard E. Grant, Naomi Ackie, and Jonathan Pryce.
This group of accomplished performers brings decades of acting experience to the retirement home mystery.
Is there a trailer available for ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ on Netflix, and if so, where can it be watched?
Yes, Netflix has released the first trailer for “The Thursday Murder Club.”
The trailer showcases the film’s stars Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Ben Kingsley in their roles as retirement home residents who become amateur detectives.
Was ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ initially a book before being turned into a movie, and who is the author?
Yes, “The Thursday Murder Club” was originally a novel written by Richard Osman before Netflix adapted it for film. The book follows four retirees who gather to solve murders for fun.
Chris Columbus is directing the film adaptation of Osman’s popular mystery novel.
How can someone watch ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ series, and is it exclusive to Netflix?
“The Thursday Murder Club” will be exclusively available on Netflix when it releases. The film is being produced as a Netflix original movie.
Viewers will need a Netflix subscription to watch the film when it premieres in 2025.
What unique elements does Helen Mirren bring to her role in ‘The Thursday Murder Club’?
Helen Mirren brings her renowned acting talents and screen presence to her role in “The Thursday Murder Club.” As one of the quartet of retirees, Mirren portrays a character whose zest for life leads her into amateur sleuthing.
Her extensive experience in both dramatic and comedic roles makes her perfectly suited for this mystery-comedy that balances humor with suspense.
