Nero Wolfe

Synopsis

Nero Wolfe, the 1979 television film starring Thayer David, brings to life the iconic detective created by Rex Stout. Wolfe is a reclusive and genius private detective who solves crimes from the comfort of his brownstone in New York City. Paired with his fast-talking assistant Archie Goodwin, he uses his intellect and eccentric methods to crack complex cases. The film showcases Wolfe’s distinct personality, his love for orchids, gourmet food, and sharp investigative skills. Set in the late 1930s, the story masterfully combines classic detective fiction elements with atmospheric settings, capturing the essence of the beloved literary character and offering fans a faithful adaptation of one of his intriguing cases.

Cast

• 

  Thayer David

  Nero Wolfe

• 

  Tom Mason

  Archie Goodwin

• 

  Anne Baxter

  Mrs. Rachael Bruner

• 

  Brooke Adams

  Sarah Dacos

• 

  Biff McGuire

  Insp. Cramer

• Sarah Cunningham

  Mrs. Althaus

Reviews

Nero Wolfe (1979) received mixed to positive feedback from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a respectable rating of 7.0/10, indicating a favorable reception from viewers who appreciate classic detective stories. Critics praised Thayer David's portrayal of the legendary detective, emphasizing his commanding screen presence and the authenticity he brought to the role. Some reviews highlighted the film’s adherence to Rex Stout’s original characterizations and period detail, which fans of the novels found particularly satisfying. However, others noted that the pacing might feel slow for those accustomed to more modern, fast-paced mystery thrillers. The film's production values and script were seen as solid but not groundbreaking, solidifying it as a faithful but modest adaptation. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film does not have an official score, reflecting its niche appeal and limited modern-day reviews. Overall, critics appreciate Nero Wolfe's intellectual charm while acknowledging it as a product of its time, best suited for enthusiasts of classic mystery narratives.

See also

Joker

Avengers: Endgame

Titanic

Shutter Island