By Jon Donnis
Murder mysteries rarely go out of fashion, but A Murder Between Friends looks determined to lean fully into the glamour, mischief and deliciously theatrical chaos that made classic whodunits such enduring crowd-pleasers. Set for release across UK digital platforms on 15 June 2026, the film brings together a flashy ensemble cast, a sprawling countryside estate and a murder that threatens to tear apart a group of old friends.
At the centre of it all is Dame Joan Collins, who appears perfectly cast as Francesca Carlyle, a celebrated true crime television personality suddenly forced to put her sleuthing instincts to real use. Collins has always thrived in roles packed with sharp dialogue and larger-than-life confidence, and A Murder Between Friends seems built around those strengths. The film clearly knows the appeal of placing an iconic screen presence in the middle of a murder mystery where every guest has secrets to hide.
Written and produced by Mark Rozzano, with Joan Collins and Percy Gibson serving as co-producers, the film is directed by Jacob Young and Trent Garrett. The production openly embraces the spirit of classic Agatha Christie mysteries, mixing suspicion, betrayal and dark humour with a modern glossy edge. Alongside Collins, the cast includes Toby-Alexander Smith, best known to many viewers for his villainous turn in EastEnders, as well as Young, Garrett and a wider international ensemble.
The premise is simple but effective. Six old friends gather for a luxurious countryside getaway at Francesca Carlyle’s lavish estate. What begins as an evening of drinking, dancing and rekindled relationships quickly spirals into something far darker when one member of the group is discovered murdered under bizarre circumstances. As accusations begin to fly and tensions rise, the surviving guests are forced to confront the uncomfortable possibility that the killer may be sitting among them.
Rather than focusing purely on grim suspense, A Murder Between Friends appears to be aiming for something more playful and knowingly stylish. The promise of twists, sharp exchanges and escalating paranoia suggests a film more interested in entertaining audiences than overwhelming them with bleakness. The combination of celebrity satire, locked-room mystery energy and glossy showbiz flair could make it an appealing choice for viewers looking for an easy summer thriller with a bit of personality.
With Joan Collins leading the charge and a premise designed to keep audiences guessing until the final reveal, A Murder Between Friends could end up being one of those cosy yet chaotic murder mysteries best enjoyed with a crowd all trying to solve the case before the credits roll.
Watch On Apple TV - https://apple.co/49KlvOV
