The Raven: Forevermore

When the Movie-Slut-to-be was in fourth grade, she was blown away by Edgar Allan Poe's most famous poem. It was recited —most dramatically—by a not-very-tall, but very dark and handsome classmate with a theatrical flourish.

In middle school the great writer's short story, "The Fall of the House of Usher," had a similar affect on the future movie blogger.

Then in college, "Annabel lee" in the kingdom by the sea, sent her swooning.

And so it was with great trepidation that she purchased a ticket for "The Raven." What kind of treatment would Hollywood give to the granddad of horror? Would it be a horrible afternoon at the multiplex?

The answer is an unequivocal "No!"

In fact Poe might relish the movie plot, which supplies a fictional account of his last days and an imaginative explanation for his mysterious death in 1849, at the age of 40. It weaves together many of his stories and poems in quite an ingenious way.

This flick is goth, gripping and gory with some giggles thrown in for good measure.