Other interviews include writer Matt Taylor, composer Philip Stanger, and animator Mike Weiss. The interview with Stanger is very interesting. Even though this is a very short film there was still original music composed for it. Stanger confesses his love for Poe, and the darker elements that his work posseses. His music really works, and is the driving force of the movie. Since there is little narration, and no real dialogue, the music is what sets the tone throughout the film.
When watching the special features make sure not to miss the one about the visual effects. Even though the movie is primarily stop-motion, there were still some computer animated elements applied. Some scenes involved green screen techniques in order to make hallways appear longer than they are. They had to add in fire, and even spider webs to give it a real Gothic feel.
Ending Thoughts
I liked the film, but would love to see more of a full length one released later on, maybe when Lougee and his crew have more resources to work with. The DVD is available on The Pit and the Pendulum website, but it’s hard to justify the 13.99$ for a seven minute movie.
Don’t get me wrong — I liked it, and the special features were very interesting to watch, because stop-motion is soon becoming a lost art form with all the CGI films flooding the marketplace. But, what is here is solid. It captures the feel of Poe very well. Every time I read something by Poe I feel like I’m in the most dark and dreary place the world has ever known.
I guess my only complaint is that I wanted more. That’s not really a complaint, as it is a hope that Lougee and company may try and flesh this short film out a little more.
Article comments