The Poe Cinema: A Critical Filmography of Theatrical Releases Based on the Works of Edgar Allan Poe

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.

Don G. Smith is an associate professor in history and philosophy of education at Eastern Illinois University. He has written for numerous publications, including Filmfax, Scarlet Street, Movie Collector’s World and Midnight Marquee. He lives in Riverview Florida.