Cast
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Sarah Smuts-Kennedy
as Sarah (segment 'Eau de la vie')
Kirsty Hamilton
as Catherine (segment 'Eau de la vie')
David Geary
as Grant (segment 'Eau de la vie')
Jeff Boyd
as Maitre'd (segment 'Eau de la vie')
Peter Daube
as Tank Man (segment 'Eau de la vie') / Paul (segment 'Bitch')
Janet Roddick
as Singer (segment 'Eau de la vie')
Joanne Simpson
as Isabel (segment 'Bitch')
Carol Smith
as Ruth (segment 'Bitch')
Stuart McKenzie
as Tony (segment 'Bitch')
Stephen Papps
as Fergus (segment 'The Imploding Self')
Adam Hutchings
as Young Fergus (segment 'The Imploding Self')
Mandy McMullin
as Mother (segment 'The Imploding Self')
Kate Miles
as Lucy (segment 'The Imploding Self')
Patrick Smith
as Dr. Pickeltheeps (segment 'The Imploding Self')
George Boyle
as Father (segment 'The Imploding Self')
Crew
Director
- Simon Baré
- Fiona Samuel
- Anna Reeves
- Simon Raby
- Niki Caro
- Stephen Batt
Writer
- Simon Baré
- Fiona Samuel
- Anna Reeves
- Simon Raby
- Niki Caro
- Stephen Batt
Producer
- Di Oliver
- Glenis Giles
- Robin Laing
- Alex Cole-Baker
- Rachel Jean
- Owen Hughes
- Trevor Haysom
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Dark Stories: Tales from Beyond the Grave presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Simon Baré brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2001, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Dark Stories: Tales from Beyond the Grave took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 314 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2001, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dark Stories: Tales from Beyond the Grave shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Stylist, which focuses more on action than character development, Dark Stories: Tales from Beyond the Grave subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Model Hunger and Zombie Shark explore similar territory, Dark Stories: Tales from Beyond the Grave stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 13, 2001
- Runtime: 1h 23m
