“The Lady Vanishes” is a 2013 TV movie produced by the BBC, based on the novel The Wheel Spins by Ethel Lina White. The movie stars Tuppence Middleton as Iris Carr, an adventurous young socialite who is traveling by train through Europe. During her journey, Iris befriends an elderly governess named Miss Froy (played by Selina Cadell), who suddenly disappears.
Iris becomes determined to find out what happened to Miss Froy, but her search is complicated by the fact that the other passengers on the train deny ever having seen the elderly governess. As Iris delves deeper into the mystery, she begins to suspect that there may be a conspiracy at play, and that Miss Froy’s disappearance is part of a larger cover-up.
The 2013 TV movie is a faithful adaptation of the novel, with the train setting and period details well-executed. The production values are high, and the pacing of the story is strong, with the mystery building slowly and steadily. Middleton is a strong lead, giving a compelling performance as the determined and resourceful Iris. Cadell is also excellent as Miss Froy, adding depth to the character and conveying a sense of warmth and kindness.
The supporting cast is also strong, with Tom Hughes delivering a convincing performance as Max Hare, a young man who aids Iris in her search for Miss Froy. Keeley Hawes is also excellent as the enigmatic and mysterious Miss Froy, whose true identity and motives are shrouded in mystery.
The 2013 adaptation of “The Lady Vanishes” is a solid adaptation of the novel that will appeal to fans of the mystery genre. While it may not quite reach the heights of the iconic 1938 film adaptation, it is a well-executed and engaging mystery that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.