Poe Cinema

by Don G. Smith

McFarland & Company (series)

Who can forget haunting tales like "The Oblong Box," "Murders in the Rue Morgue," "The Pit and the Pendulum," and "Torture Garden"? This is a critical filmography of the 81 features from 13 countries that have adapted the literary works of Edgar Allan Poe. Each entry includes the title of the work, year of release, studio, full cast and credits, running time, and a detailed plot synopsis. Production and marketing notes first examine the degree to which the film is faithful to Poe's original work. Pertinent career information for the primary actors and filmmakers, anecdotes and perspectives from the principals, and an overview of the marketing of the movie are next provided. A thorough critical analysis, including contemporary reviews of the film, completes each entry.