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Mystery 101: An Education in Murder (2020): Cast & Ratings

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder (2020) movie poster

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder is a 2020 mystery film directed by Michael Robison, starring Kristoffer Polaha as Detective Travis Burke, Jill Wagner and David James Lewis. It runs 1 hour 23 minutes. Its Echo Score is 76/100.

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Mystery 101: An Education in Murder (2020) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 23m (83 min)
Director
Michael Robison
Genre
Mystery
Original language
English
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Mystery 101: An Education in Murder About?

The premise of Mystery 101: An Education in Murder without spoilers.

A young writer’s investigation into a case leads the police to reopen a notorious murder trial. A professor at Elmstead was previously convicted, and now, with new evidence, a colleague’s reputation is on the line. Two detectives are given a second opportunity to prove the professor’s innocence and uncover the truth behind the original conviction.

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder Themes & Keywords

· 9 tags
  • adultery
  • boy
  • infidelity
  • jealousy
  • gift
  • prison
  • punishment
  • contraband
  • scolding
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Cast & crew

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder Cast & Characters

Kristoffer Polaha leads the cast as Detective Travis Burke, with Jill Wagner as Professor Amy Winslow and David James Lewis as Dwight Merrill. Directed by Michael Robison; 16 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Mystery 101: An Education in Murder

· 12 more
From the director

More from Michael Robison

More films directed by Michael Robison, best-rated first: An Unexpected Valentine, Holiday Crashers, A Novel Noel and Family Practice Mysteries: Coming Home.

Full filmography
Ratings

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder Reviews & Ratings

Our Echo Score gives it 76/100, strongest in character & emotion (85) and weakest in sensory experience (60).

76 /100

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder Echo Score Breakdown

Mystery 101 delivers a solid entry in the Hallmark mystery line, buoyed by strong lead chemistry and a satisfying, if occasionally predictable, plot. Viewers note the series maintains its familiar formula while offering enough twists to keep the mystery interest alive. Production values are adequate for the genre, though the visual style remains unremarkable. The series' appeal lies in its comfortable pacing and the desire for more installments, resulting in a generally positive reception overall.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 65

    In terms of direction and visual craftsmanship, the film adheres to Hallmark's standard production quality without notable innovation. Reviewers describe the cinematography and editing as serviceable but not distinctive, resulting in an average aesthetic experience. The lack of memorable visual moments keeps the technical execution solid yet unexceptional. Consequently, the artistic component registers as competent but unremarkable.

  • Character & Emotion 85

    When evaluating character work, the chemistry between the two leads receives consistent commendation, with their interactions described as engaging and natural. Performances are praised for realistic dialogue and nuanced emotional beats, enhancing audience connection. Even the supporting role of the lead's father is highlighted positively. This strong relational dynamic and credible acting elevate the character aspect considerably.

  • Story & Flow 75

    The narrative structure offers a well‑crafted mystery that balances familiar genre tropes with occasional surprises. Reviewers appreciate the breadcrumb clues and the overall coherence of the plot, though some note moments of predictability and low tension. The pacing remains measured, keeping viewers invested without overwhelming intensity. Overall, the story succeeds in delivering a satisfying mystery experience.

  • Sensory Experience 60

    Sensory elements such as soundtrack and sound design are mentioned only in passing, suggesting a functional but nondescript auditory backdrop. Visual style maintains the series' safe, conventional aesthetic, lacking bold color palettes or striking cinematographic choices. The sensory experience thus fulfills basic expectations without adding notable flair, resulting in a moderate assessment.

  • Rewatch Factor 78

    Rewatch potential is high among fans, with many expressing eagerness for future installments and a desire to revisit the series. The comfortable formula and enjoyable mystery puzzles encourage repeated viewings, though the low‑stakes tension may limit broader appeal. Overall, the film's lasting charm and fan enthusiasm support a strong rewatch factor.

Videos

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder Trailers & Videos

The trailer of Mystery 101: An Education in Murder.

Preview + Sneak Peek - Mystery 101: An Education in Murder - Hallmark Movies & Mysteries
Details

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder Also Known As

10 alternative titles, including “Тайна 101: Убийственное образование” and “神秘101: 谋杀案教育”.

Also known as
  • Тайна 101: Убийственное образование
  • 神秘101: 谋杀案教育
  • Rejtélyek professzora - Bűnügy újratöltve
  • Введение в детективы: Убийственное образование
  • Mystery 101: Diploma in omicidi
  • Záhady pro začátečníky: Vražda na univerzitě
  • Petits meurtres sur le campus : Affaire classée
  • Záhady pre začiatočníkov: Vražda na univerzite
  • Petits meurtres sur le campus - affaire classée
  • Теорія і практика детективу: Літературне вбивство

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FAQ

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder FAQ: Cast & Runtime

Runtime, release date, director, cast and post-credit scenes of Mystery 101: An Education in Murder, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Mystery 101: An Education in Murder?

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder runs 1 hour 23 minutes (83 minutes).

When was Mystery 101: An Education in Murder released?

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder was released on March 29, 2020.

Who directed Mystery 101: An Education in Murder?

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder was directed by Michael Robison.

More films by Michael Robison

Who is in the cast of Mystery 101: An Education in Murder?

Mystery 101: An Education in Murder stars Kristoffer Polaha as Detective Travis Burke, Jill Wagner as Professor Amy Winslow and David James Lewis as Dwight Merrill, among 16 credited actors.

Does Mystery 101: An Education in Murder have a post-credit scene?

No. Mystery 101: An Education in Murder has no extra scene during or after the credits.

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