Owes a lot to Tim Burton's Sleepy Hollow. But good nonetheless.
As a whodunit, it is a finely functioning affair. A few twists and turns are somewhat outrageous at times. And an eagle-eyed viewer can figure out the ultimate resolution fairly early in the narrative.
But the film is more than a plot.
There is much evocative enjoyment from the setting - which is decidedly bleak with Eastern Pennsylvania standing in for the Hudson River Valley. Rather refreshing that this was not shot in Central Europe. But the wintry locale does add a tremendous amount of verisimilitude and atmosphere to the storytelling.
The film is also ably serviced by a competent cast. Every member is up to the task and seemingly having a good time in their roles. And while Bale has top billing, this film is 100% Harry Melling's to command. Just as Hal Holbrook went on to be the living embodiment of Mark Twain, Melling has captured the Baltimore Bard's appearance and spirit. He has a future in doing Poe readings and playing him in award-winning productions for decades to come. Melling's performance here is that mesmerizing. Dudley Dursley has come a long way from Privet Drive.
Oh and the awesome former Lt Governor (now junior Senator) of the Keystone State can be seen as the pipe-smoking patron at the end of tavern bar. You can't miss his remarkable face.
Timothy Spall, Toby Jones, an over-the-top Gillian Anderson and an almost unrecognizable Robert Duvall all lend their sizable talents to what is a good suspenseful movie with a lot going for it.
But the film is more than a plot.
There is much evocative enjoyment from the setting - which is decidedly bleak with Eastern Pennsylvania standing in for the Hudson River Valley. Rather refreshing that this was not shot in Central Europe. But the wintry locale does add a tremendous amount of verisimilitude and atmosphere to the storytelling.
The film is also ably serviced by a competent cast. Every member is up to the task and seemingly having a good time in their roles. And while Bale has top billing, this film is 100% Harry Melling's to command. Just as Hal Holbrook went on to be the living embodiment of Mark Twain, Melling has captured the Baltimore Bard's appearance and spirit. He has a future in doing Poe readings and playing him in award-winning productions for decades to come. Melling's performance here is that mesmerizing. Dudley Dursley has come a long way from Privet Drive.
Oh and the awesome former Lt Governor (now junior Senator) of the Keystone State can be seen as the pipe-smoking patron at the end of tavern bar. You can't miss his remarkable face.
Timothy Spall, Toby Jones, an over-the-top Gillian Anderson and an almost unrecognizable Robert Duvall all lend their sizable talents to what is a good suspenseful movie with a lot going for it.
- Otkon
- Jan 7, 2023