The Thursday Murder Club Movie has officially grabbed the spotlight, bringing Richard Osman’s bestselling crime novel to life on the big screen. Known for its quirky blend of humor, suspense, and heart, the story follows a group of spirited retirees who meet every Thursday to investigate unsolved crimes.

With its unique premise, charming characters, and a stellar cast, the film promises to deliver a refreshing take on the murder mystery genre, appealing to both fans of the books and new audiences alike. But fans are asking the big question: Is the movie an exact copy of the book?

Let’s dive into a side-by-side look at The Thursday Murder Club in its book and movie forms-

The Thursday Murder Club Book

Richard Osman’s debut novel is part murder mystery, part warm-hearted comedy about friendship and aging. Set in the fictional retirement community of Cooper’s Chase, the book introduces:

• Elizabeth – a sharp-minded former spy.

• Joyce – a widowed nurse who narrates sections through her diary entries.

• Ron – a loud, ex-trade union leader.

• Ibrahim – a meticulous retired psychiatrist.

Together, they secretly meet every Thursday to pore over old police files, until a fresh murder lands right on their doorstep. The book’s charm lies in its witty dialogue, layered mysteries, and poignant reflections on growing old.

The Thursday Murder Club Movie

Directed by Chris Columbus, the Netflix adaptation brings the quirky world of Cooper’s Chase to life with cinematic flair. The film leans into humour and character chemistry while keeping the whodunit element alive. Key highlights of the movie version:

• A tighter plot that focuses mainly on the murders of Tony Curran and Ian Ventham.

• A greater emphasis on Elizabeth’s relationship with her husband, Stephen, which adds emotional depth.

• Less focus on Joyce’s diary-style narration (a unique feature of the novel).

Supporting characters are trimmed or merged to streamline the story for a two-hour runtime.

Book vs Movie: What Stayed the Same

• The four main characters are faithfully adapted, with their personalities intact.

• The setting—Cooper’s Chase retirement village—is still the heart of the story.

• The balance of humor, warmth, and mystery that made the book a hit remains a central element.

• The murders of Tony and Ian drive the plot forward in both versions.

Book vs Movie: What Changed

• Complexity of the plot: The book juggles multiple subplots and cold cases, while the film narrows its scope.

• Narrative voice: Joyce’s witty diary entries, which give the book its unique voice, don’t appear as prominently in the movie.

• Character arcs: The film adds new emotional beats—especially with Elizabeth and Stephen—that weren’t explored as deeply in the novel.

• Ending: Some reveals are rearranged for cinematic suspense, giving the finale a slightly different emotional impact.

FAQs on The Thursday Murders Club:

1.⁠ ⁠Is The Thursday Murder Club movie an exact copy of the book?
No, the movie isn’t an exact copy. It keeps the main characters and central murders but simplifies subplots, changes narrative style, and slightly alters the ending for cinematic impact.

2.⁠ ⁠What are the major differences between The Thursday Murder Club book and movie?
The biggest changes are: fewer subplots, less focus on Joyce’s diary narration, more emotional depth in Elizabeth’s personal life, and a rearranged ending.

3.⁠ ⁠Does the Netflix movie capture the spirit of The Thursday Murder Club novel?
Yes, even with changes, the film preserves the book’s cozy humour, warmth, and quirky characters, making it enjoyable for both fans and newcomers.

4.⁠ ⁠Should I read the book before watching The Thursday Murder Club movie?
It’s not required, but recommended. The book offers more layered mysteries, witty details, and side plots that the film doesn’t cover.

5.⁠ ⁠Which version is better: The Thursday Murder Club book or the movie?
The book provides richer detail and subplots, while the movie delivers a charming, fast-paced version with a strong cast. It depends on whether you prefer depth (book) or a light, entertaining watch (movie).

The Thursday Murder Club movie isn’t an exact copy of the book—but that’s not a bad thing. While some of the novel’s subplots and details are lost, the film captures the heart of Osman’s story: the joy of friendship, the wit of unlikely detectives, and the thrill of solving a mystery, no matter your age.

For readers, the book remains a richer, more layered experience. For film lovers, the adaptation is a cozy, charming entry point into the world of Cooper’s Chase. Together, they prove why The Thursday Murder Club has become a modern classic in both print and on screen.