Essie Davis and Nathan Page are back in the exciting new movie, Miss Fisher and The Crypt of Tears! Let’s dive into the chemistry, costumes, and why we absolutely need another movie.
Miss Fisher is making her return! After a five-year hiatus, following three seasons now streaming on Acorn TV, our beloved female detective is back in grand style, complete with her signature gold handgun. This week marked the release of Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears as an exclusive feature film on Acorn TV. The wait has been long, but it was definitely worth it! I can confidently say that this romantic mystery provides the perfect blend of escapist entertainment we’ve been craving.
ABOUT MISS FISHER’S MURDER MYSTERIES
If you’re new to the world of Miss Fisher, let me introduce you. The original Australian series, set in the 1920s, is centered around a lively, smart, and notably independent woman named Miss Fisher. She returns to Melbourne to start her career as a private detective, much to the displeasure of the dashing Detective Inspector Jack Robinson. Over time, Phryne wins him over with her charm, and together, they solve crimes while gradually falling in love, despite her aversion to marriage.
The series, inspired by Kerry Greenwood’s novels, is a delightful mix of excitement, humor, and sweetness. The romance between Phryne’s assistant Dot and constable Hugh adds an extra layer of charm. The romantic tension between Jack and Phryne, complete with passionate glances and the occasional kiss, keeps viewers hooked.
THE GORGEOUS COSTUMES
A significant part of Miss Fisher’s appeal is her incredible wardrobe. Each outfit is exquisitely detailed and elegantly portrays the time period while highlighting her independent and flirtatious nature. Phryne loves being a woman and doesn’t shy away from the rules of her gender. Thankfully, Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears continues to celebrate Phryne’s iconic fashion sense.
‘MISS FISHER AND THE CRYPT OF TEARS‘ REVIEW: INDIANA JONES MEETS ROMANCE ADVENTURE SERIALS
The new movie, funded by fans, picks up just a few months after the last episode, but it can also stand alone. This time, Phryne takes on crimes of a global scale, starting with an opening scene set in British-occupied Palestine, evoking vibes of James Bond and Indiana Jones. And yes, Miss Fisher’s trademark stylish costumes are just as crucial as Indy’s whip.
While I do miss the Australian setting, watching Miss Fisher and Detective Inspector Jack Robinson solve mysteries around the world fits perfectly within the romantic adventure genre. The new movie embodies an old-fashioned romantic adventure serial.
At the beginning, Phryne rescues Shirin, a girl from unjust imprisonment, and is then presumed dead. Friends and family, including Jack, travel to London to mourn her, only to discover she’s very much alive. However, there’s tension between Jack and Phryne when they meet again; Jack is reluctant to have anything to do with her. Phryne must charm him back while solving an international crime involving ancient curses, treasures, imperialism, and mysteries tied to Alexander the Great.
Though the original series was cozy, The Crypt of Tears introduces a more supernatural and mystical archaeological tone.
JACK AND MISS FISHER
The mystery may take a backseat here because it’s the romance, drama, and adventure that truly shine. The chemistry between Jack and Phryne continues to smolder as they argue, flirt, and save each other from danger. The movie even includes a quicksand scene! This romantic adventure film is reminiscent of classics like The Mummy and succeeds by fully embracing romance. Despite some pacing issues and the minor roles of Dot and Hugh, the film delivers exactly what fans of the genre hope for.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
Accept this film for what it aims to be: a fun, sensational, and romantic adventure with a feminist twist, and you’ll easily overlook any weaker aspects of the rushed mystery. The movie doesn’t pretend to be a serious award contender, and that’s part of its charm. Bonus: fans of Jane Austen will appreciate Rupert Penry Jones’ appearance.
Content Note: It’s NR but includes mild innuendo and mild violence.
What did you think of Miss Fisher & the Crypt of Tears? Did you enjoy it as much as we did? And what about that ending? Let’s chat about it!