Murder by Death is a 1976 film directed by Robert Moore. The film is a comedic murder mystery that parodies the detective genre and features a cast of famous literary detectives called in to solve a murder. 

Plot

The film begins with an invitation from a mysterious host, Lionel Twain (played by Truman Capote), to five famous literary detectives and their assistants for a weekend at an isolated, luxurious mansion. The guests include:

Sam Diamond (played by Peter Falk), a parody of Dashiell Hammett's Sam Spade.

Jessica Marbles (played by Elsa Lanchester), a parody of Agatha Christie's Miss Marple.

Milo Perrier (played by James Coco), a parody of Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot.

Dick and Dora Charleston (played by David Niven and Maggie Smith), a parody of Dashiell Hammett's Nick and Nora Charles.

Once they arrive at the mansion, Twain reveals that he has also invited a mysterious guest of his own and that the weekend will involve solving a murder. The comedy unfolds as the detectives attempt to solve the mystery and prove themselves to be the best, with a series of comedic situations and surprising plot twists.

The film is known for its affectionate parody of literary detectives and offers a blend of humor and suspense.

Director: Robert Moore

Writer: Neil Simon

Producers: Ray Stark and Neil Simon

Music: Dave Grusin

Cinematographer: David M. Walsh

Main Cast:

• Eileen Brennan as Tess Skeffington
• Truman Capote as Lionel Twain
• James Coco as Milo Perrier
• Peter Falk as Sam Diamond
• Alec Guinness as Bensonmum
• Elsa Lanchester as Jessica Marbles
• David Niven as Dick Charleston
• Peter Sellers as Sidney Wang
• Maggie Smith as Dora Charleston
• Nancy Walker as Maid

Major Awards: The film did not win major Oscars but was appreciated for its comedy and outstanding cast.

Box Office Gross: The film collected approximately $32,000,000 at the box office.

Critical Reception:  The film is known for its witty comedy and its exceptional cast, which includes Peter Sellers, Peter Falk, Alec Guinness, Maggie Smith, and many others. Although it did not win major Oscars, the film was appreciated by critics for its satire and humor, achieving a strong box office performance.