Search - The Raven on DVD

Craig S. (InnerMacro) from WAUSAU, WI
Reviewed on 9/13/2022...

The concept of this film had potential, but it's too confused about its target audience. On one hand, literary fans of Poe would like the dialogue and references to his works . . . but Cusack's character is nothing like the real Poe. He is characterized as a combative, egotistical drunk, who sets about wooing the beautiful daughter of a wealthy man with his attractive charm (?). Anyone who knows Poe knows that this is fairly opposite of his disposition and demeanor. On the other hand, the film could be a thriller that appeals to the casual viewer that knows little or nothing of Poe, but the pacing and focus on him as a writer slows the movie too much to be enjoyable in that respect. So, the film falls short for both audiences, satisfying neither. The sets and details of the film were okay, but not enough to save the film from feeling like we've seen this one before.

2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.

William B. from NINETY SIX, SC
Reviewed on 12/1/2021...

This movie is set in the mid 1800s and involves poet Edgar Allan Poe. A serial killer is on the loose and murdering people using Poe's descriptions from his published stories and poems. Poe teams up with Detective Fields, a Baltimore policeman to try and catch the killer by using his knowledge of the descriptions. Even though the stories are fictional, they start to become reality and the killer is a step ahead of them. Then it takes on a personal note as Poe's lover becomes a target. Will they stop the killer in time?

2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.