Tell Tale (2009)

After watching Stuart Gordon’s adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s The Pit and the Pendulum, I was still in sort of a Poe mood tonight. Luckily for me, I found a movie (loosely based on Poe) that I have been thinking about for a while, 2009s Tell Tale.

Plot/ A man's newly transplanted heart leads him on a dangerous journey to find out who murdered its donor.

Much like Dorian Gray and its interpretation of the Oscar Wilde classic, Tell Tale is definitely more inspired by the Poe classing than based on it. In fact, there are very few similarities in this modernized version. However, even with those small similarities, this film is does a great job at crafting a story the Poe might have been proud of. More of a thriller than horror, there is a heavy and depressing atmosphere that permeates the film, actually carrying a bit of suspense throughout. The cast and acting are solid and both add to the story. Plus, there is a touch of blood and violence that add just enough to tie it together. Yes, it is not a perfect Indie flick, with some of the characters creating a gauche feel and mood. In the end, this is a decent stand-alone flick that may turn off the Poe fan that was not educated about its premise. Personally, I thought it was a good interpretation with a lot to offer, and a flick that can be enjoyed by many!