Silent as the Grave

I enjoy discovering new, truly independent productions, often hit or miss, Silent as the Grave is a major hit.

A simple well-made film, classy, with fine directing, acting. Michael Kunicki is an outstanding lead for this film, a Hitchcockian hero.

The directors Messrs. Gremley and Podowski give the material an old school thriller, mystery feel to it, film noir.

The Christmas theme throughout is a nice touch, contrary to the scenes unfolding, kept my interest throughout. Nice twists and turns, wonderfully not predictable.

The fact this is based on a true, personal story makes it all the more remarkable.

My hat's off to all involved!

Imagine a modern noir film set in the suburbs. There's tons of room for play and that is exactly what Silent as the Grave does. When aspiring documentary filmmaker Chris is hired by a femme fatale (his mother) to investigate a cold case involving the murder of his uncle decades earlier, she sees a potential new project full of conspiracies, cover-ups, and secrets. He has only one clue to start out from, who has been leaving flowers at his uncle's grave all these years and why?

It's ironic that his most recent documentary covered the history of noir filmmaking. If only he could recognize he's in a hardboiled whodunit of his own, maybe he could foresee some of the tropes waiting for him right around the corner.

We've got some good acting here, cinematography is a notch above most of the low budget competitors which brings you into the story quickly. And, as expected, there are lots of reveals along the way that will keep the one interesting for you until the last moments.

Semi-fictional story about a documentary filmmaker who investigates details surrounding the mysterious death of a family member, his Uncle in 1960. This smart indie film has good pacing, is beautifully lit, and carries an evocative music score. Lead actor Michael Kunicki was very good in his portrayal of a husband with divided interests. I really enjoyed Isabella Alonso in her portrayal as his wife. Directors Brad Podowsky and Dan Gremley do an excellent job of placing you as viewer into lead character's shoes. Enjoyed villain turn by actor Antonio Ciano - believably scary. Definitely worth watching.

Based on true events, its an effective crime drama focusing on a documentary filmmaker who sets out to make his second feature investigating the decades old death of his uncle who may have been murdered. Written and co directed by Brad Podowski (and Dan Gremley), the film is paced well, acted by a strong ensemble with a nice subtle approach. As our filmmaker hero, lead Chris (what a great name, lol!), Michael Kunicki gives his role the right amount of nerdish determination to make him charming and likable. He's surrounded by a good ensemble cast. Podowski and Gremley make good use of the Chicago locations and the moody score by Raphael Dargent is a highlight. This is a stylish film noir whodunnit (set during one Christmas) and worth a look on Tubi.

I enjoyed this film which is a family suspense drama based on true family stories. That's what hooked me and it's a slow build up to the conclusion but worth it although I had a feeling about who the "bad guy" was from their introduction. The lead actor is good as he uncovers family secrets but the supporting characters could have been developed more. I liked the cinematography and the overall look of the film, much more professional than other independent films of this genre. Editing could have been a little snappier to bring out the suspense but the noir-ish score is top notch and surprisingly jazzy in parts, which I loved.