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slow story, yet suspensful
lengthy as any period piece is, but well told
strong performances by all
This isn’t just the first of many Netflix big hitters coming this year, and casting Christian Bale is always a safe and strong bet for pulling in the viewers. However it was Henry Melling that a nod should be given, portraying Edgar A Poe, Melling steals almost every scene with his delivery of the wordsmiths’ words, but also showcases the excitement of a poet caught up in the drama that is writing itself around him.
Beautifully set, this period piece is both lengthy and slow-paced, however, as the murder mystery plot deepens the suspense and restlessness of the Academy cadets and officers is clear to see. And this is where the film starts to redeem itself. With a little uncertainty about how many more twists or turns this isolated community will face, the viewer’s intrigue is contained.
Mr Landor (first name escapes me from its clear lack of use) played by Bale is a strong and somewhat reserved character. Landor is an aged but experienced person who keeps himself guarded although clear to see and even referenced as military experience, something he draws on to gain other people’s trust and confidence. His true being, that of a caring yet dominant figure unravels as he leads the investigation into the cadet’s murder. Relying on another outcast character like himself he gathers the unlikely allyship of Poe.
With little else to say on the development of the story and exceptional delivery from both Bale and Melling, The Pale Blue Eye does leave you fully immersed as it holds its own albeit slightly longer than most as can begin to feel like a marathon before the final twist. The film does lend itself artistically to the likes of other period murder mysteries in recent years, such as Netflix’s Alienist and competitor Prime with Ripper Street
Andy Cook 