The Raven

Essentially a dramatization of Edgar Allan Poe's wildly popular 1845 narrative poem about a mourning lover's torment over the arrival of a talking raven, this short film is a well-meaning, glossy production burdened by a strained performance by the narrator (David JM Bielewicz). Although the poem is recited in its entirety, this is not a particularly illuminating rendition, especially since the approach here results in the loss of most of the essential musicality of Poe's writing. Extras include lesson plans and the original poem. Although rather disappointing, some might consider using this as a teaching supplement for a reading of the poem. A strong optional purchase. Aud: J, H, C, P. (T. Keogh)