One in three Brits stick to the same dish every time they go for dinner
According to a survey of 2,000 UK adults commissioned by Netflix to mark the launch of its eagerly awaited Thursday Murder Club film, the mental workout of solving a ‘whodunnit’ is described as the ultimate wind-down for nearly half of Brits (47%),
With one in three Brits now finding the prospect of solving a murder more relaxing than meditation, as 60% turn to murder-mystery-based escapism as a method of mindfulness. And a further 43% find the challenge of solving it before the characters the pinnacle of relaxation.
A national love for murder mysteries is thriving, especially amongst those aged 55 and older, with over a third (36 %) identifying as armchair sleuths, with 73% captivated by the unique blend of peaceful settings and cold-blooded murder. Reflecting a desire for mindfulness through murder mysteries, as 21% of fans cite the beautiful countryside and idyllic villages as a main draw, and 31% of retirees feel more active and engaged by such activities.
Recognising this interest, Netflix is partnering with the Royal Horticultural Society to offer a week-long series of Thursday Murder Club events. Starting August 22nd, this partnership will bring the ultimate murder mystery escape to all five RHS gardens in the UK.
Featuring interactive floral billboards and themed scavenger hunts inspired by the film’s plot, guests can immerse themselves in zen gardens around the highly anticipated big-screen adaptation of Richard Osman’s best-selling novel, The Thursday Murder Club. Additionally, for a taste of something truly killer, a Joyce-themed tearoom takeover at the iconic RHS Garden Wisley will offer character-inspired treats crafted in the style of Celia Imrie’s fan-favourite portrayal; think Elizabeth’s Earl Grey (with a twist) and Ibrahim’s Calming Chamomile to Joyce’s famous Lemon Drizzle and Ron’s must-try Sausage Rolls.
Victoria Dowling, Business Development Manager for RHS Gardens, said, “We are delighted to have partnered with Netflix to infuse our own iconic gardens with a distinctive murder-mystery twist, giving our visitors a taste of The Thursday Murder Club.”
Beyond the idyllic settings, the genre has surprisingly emerged as a ‘feelgood’ entertainment favourite for film and TV enthusiasts, with murder mystery (35%) significantly more popular than romance (24%). This trend is particularly strong among Millennials (51%), who are drawn to the genre’s puzzle-based nature for a sense of order amidst the complexities of everyday life. Its appeal also spans generations, captivating nearly half (46%) of Gen Z (16-24 year olds), with the average entry age as young as 16.
Based on Richard Osman’s international best-selling novel and directed by Chris Columbus, The Thursday Murder Club stars Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie as ageing retirees who solve cold case murders for enjoyment, before a thrilling turn of events thrusts a genuine whodunnit upon them.
