Watch American Masters: Edgar Allan Poe: Buried Alive

American Masters: Edgar Allan Poe: Buried Alive is a 2016 biographical documentary film about the life and work of the renowned author Edgar Allan Poe. Produced by PBS, the film is directed by Eric Stange and features actor Denis O'Hare as the narrator. The documentary delves deep into the personal and professional life of the troubled writer, exploring the inspiration behind his eerie stories and morbid poems. It traces his journey from a young orphan to a struggling writer to becoming one of the most revered literary figures in American history.

The film begins with the mysterious circumstances surrounding Poe's death and then goes back in time to chronicle his tumultuous life. It talks about his upbringing and how he lost his mother to tuberculosis at a young age, followed by the abandonment of his father. This loss and abandonment would have a profound impact on his life and work.

The documentary then shifts focus to his early years and his love for literature. The narrative is interspersed with readings from his works, including The Raven, The Cask of Amontillado, and The Tell-Tale Heart, among others. These readings serve as a reminder of Poe's mastery of the macabre and his ability to create a haunting atmosphere in his writing.

The documentary then moves on to his personal life, where it explores his relationships with the women in his life, including his tragic marriage to his cousin Virginia, who died of tuberculosis at a young age. This section of the film adds a human touch to the otherwise dark world of Poe's stories and reveals the poet's vulnerability and fragility.

The documentary also sheds light on Poe's struggles with addiction and the impact it had on his life and work. It explores his drinking problems and opium addiction and how it affected his mental health and creativity. The film also highlights how mental illness was stigmatized at the time, making it difficult for Poe to get help.

One of the highlights of the documentary is its exploration of the literary scene of the time. It talks about how Poe's works were received by the public and the critical community, and how his reputation as a writer evolved over time. The film also features interviews with modern-day writers, scholars, and Poe enthusiasts who offer their insights into his work and legacy.

Throughout the film, the narrative is accompanied by stunning visuals that capture the eerie and haunting quality of Poe's stories. The use of archival footage and photos also adds depth and authenticity to the story, making it a compelling and informative watch for both fans of Poe's work and those interested in the history of American literature.

In conclusion, American Masters: Edgar Allan Poe: Buried Alive is a captivating biographical documentary that offers a fascinating insight into one of America's most enigmatic literary figures. It blends literary analysis with personal accounts and contextualizes Poe's life and work within the broader historical and cultural landscape of 19th century America. With its outstanding research, stunning visuals, and powerful storytelling, this film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the life of Edgar Allan Poe.

American Masters: Edgar Allan Poe: Buried Alive is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes.