As an Edgar Allan Poe fan, I felt somewhat torn...
The Raven follows a series of events that occurred in the last, otherwise unknown, days of Poe's life. From one brutal murder to another, Detective Fields discovers that the connection between the murderous acts link back to the stories by Edgar Allan Poe. In order to find the murderer, he involves the intelligence of Poe himself. This film stars John Cusack, Luke Evans, Alice Eve and Brendan Gleeson.
I can't say that my expectations were high in the first place, but this film was mostly disappointing. Other than quoting some of Poe's famous works, and taking from his stories the many gruesome deaths, this film had so many issues with it, the entire time you knew something was off. The research the film makers attempted, didn't do Poe justice. His character was too modern that it became unrealistic.
As for the genre of the film, it seemed somewhat undecided. Was this a comedic film? It certainly tried to start out that way. Was this a detective film? Well, it's no Sherlock Holmes, but it definitely tried to be that at times. Was this a horror? I found myself jumping a few times. Or was this a thriller? I couldn't figure out what this film wanted to be. It did not flow well at all. And after the first hour, it felt like it was droning on, forcing the minutes to pass. The film could have been concluded so many times, and it became obnoxious how long they kept it going for.
Now, as for the acting, John Cusack was fine. He didn't wow me, but he didn't disappoint me either. Luke Evans, however, is another story. He was famous for overacting. His face gave away a hint of exaggeration, one which told you, 'yes I am an actor, playing a part'. There is no better way to ruin a film, but to overact in your scenes.
Finally, the ending was not satisfying at all. You are dragged through this not-so-complex plot, only to find that the ending you've been waiting for is somewhat taken from you. It's extremely anti-climactic.
Ultimately, I give this film 6/10 for being lazy in its execution and careless with the reputation and respect of Edgar Allan Poe.
