Poern

Edgar Allan Poe's literary works have been adapted many times – but rarely with such a radically different approach. This experimental production combines elements of arthouse cinema with erotic stylistic devices and a clear reference to horror films. The film is based on several of Poe's poems and short stories, including “Alone,” “Song,” “The Black Cat,” “William Wilson,” “Ligeia,” and “Morella” from “Tales of Mystery and Madness”. Each episode is staged independently and linked by a connecting character. POERN brings together five short films made by directors from different countries. Both analog and digital techniques are used, including a completely computer-generated character. The participation of internationally renowned erotic actress Roberta Gemma lends the project additional attention, not least through her appearances as a visual leading figure. The production originates from Italy and was completed in 2024 under the direction of Domiziano Cristopharo, Alessandro Redaelli, Andrea Aste, Alessandro Basso, and Yumiko Itou. With its emphatically cross-genre approach, POERN is exemplary of experimental independent film that deliberately moves outside established narrative patterns. The production remains faithful to the source material throughout, with the aim of opening up new visual approaches to the themes of madness, identity, and desire.