Indian Agatha Christie fans can rejoice! Vishal Bhardwaj’s 2023 web series, “Charlie Chopra & The Mystery of Solang Valley,” is an official adaptation of the mystery queen’s novel, “The Sittaford Mystery.” Set in the stunning Himachal Pradesh, the first episode begins on a chilly snowy night, where members of a family are gathered with a few friends in their hall, while an old eccentric man conducts a séance with theatrical fanfare. The ghost of a woman called “Lady Rose” possesses one of the guests and claims someone is dead.

With an ensemble cast that includes seasoned actors Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Gulshan Grover, the story is led by Wamiqa Gabbi, who plays the titular Charlie, a young woman who runs an organic farm and also plays detective in her free time. When Charlie’s fiancé, Jimmy (played by Vivaan Shah), is jailed as the prime suspect in his wealthy uncle’s murder case, she must prove his innocence. The ghost of Lady Rose talked about the death of the same man. And everybody in his family has a strong motive for killing the rich man. A classic Christie mystery, obviously.

While the cinematography is fantastic, the only annoying aspect is the fact that Wamiqa’s Charlie needlessly breaks the fourth wall to talk to the viewers about what’s going on in her mind. The technique adds a sprinkle of comedy but is largely unnecessary, as very few actors can pull it off with panache. I guess after reading all those Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple-led mysteries, I would’ve preferred an older, feisty detective. Perhaps having Neena Gupta or Ratna Pathak portray the detective could’ve been more fun and entertaining.

Regardless, the world-building in episode one has a lot of old-school charm, and the snowy towns provide a gorgeously engaging backdrop for the murder thriller. It remains to be seen if Charlie Chopra can live up to the expectations Agatha Christie fans will have for her or if she will turn out to be the weakest link in this mystery.

You can stream “Charlie Chopra & The Mystery of Solang Valley” on SonyLiv.