Evil Under the Sun

Evil Under the Sun

Year: 1982

Runtime: 117 min

Language: English

Director: Guy Hamilton

DramaMystery

A renowned detective investigates the death of a glamorous actress at a lavish resort in the Balkans. As Hercule Poirot delves into the case, he finds himself entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and suspicious characters among the wealthy guests. With fame and fortune at stake, Poirot must carefully examine the relationships and hidden motives of those present to discover the killer and expose the evil lurking beneath the sun.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Evil Under the Sun (1982) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Read the complete plot breakdown of Evil Under the Sun (1982), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

The enigmatic Belgian detective Hercule Poirot arrives at what seems to be a serene vacation paradise located on an enchanting island in the Adriatic Sea. However, beneath the idyllic surface lies a dark reality where evil is not reserved for the shadows, as it can lurk even in the most beautiful corners of the world.

The tranquility of the resort is shattered when the former actress, Arlena Marshall, known for her ability to repel those around her, is found strangled on the sandy beach. This shocking event leaves everyone at the resort as potential suspects, each harboring their own motives for wanting her dead, though they all maintain seemingly watertight alibis. Amid the chaos of accusations and whispered secrets, Poirot’s keen investigative instincts are put into action.

As he delves deeper into the mystery, Poirot uncovers that the murderer is none other than Patrick Redfern, James Mason, Arlena’s lover, who had been brazenly conducting their affair in full view of his unsuspecting wife. Patrick’s desire to reclaim a stolen diamond—a precious gift he had once given to Arlena—leads to the fatal confrontation. Surprisingly, it is revealed that his wife was not only aware of the affair but was also complicit in her husband’s machinations. Together, they orchestrated an elaborate scheme designed to mislead Poirot, which included Patrick’s wife temporarily impersonating Arlena after the tragedy had already occurred.

The plot thickens as Poirot discovers connections to another murder case that had previously been dismissed as the work of a vagrant—hinting at a deeper web of deceit and betrayal at play. This captivating narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a sun-soaked paradise, demonstrating that even amid beauty, sinister intentions can flourish. Through meticulous deduction and unparalleled skill, Poirot must untangle the threads left behind by the murder to bring the true culprit to justice.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:36

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Evil Under the Sun

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