Silent as the Grave

I've long been a fan of film noir and just recently finished reading Eddie Muller's "Dark City: The Lost World of Film Noir." So when I saw the trailer for this neo-noir-esqe crime story, I just had to take a look. And I'm so glad I did. Silent as the Grave is about a documentary filmmaker with his own love of film noir. And his curiosity about a family mystery soon leads him into a real life crime story of his own. I won't spoil the plot, but it's fair to say as the mystery grows, so does the filmmakers sense of peril. This was a delicious crime-drama. And you don't have to be a noir fan like me to enjoy it. If you like a good, involving mystery with some dark family secrets, you'll get into this movie. I absolutely recommend it.

Semi-fictional story about a documentary filmmaker who investigates details surrounding the mysterious death of a family member, his Uncle in 1960. This smart indie film has good pacing, is beautifully lit, and carries an evocative music score. Lead actor Michael Kunicki was very good in his portrayal of a husband with divided interests. I really enjoyed Isabella Alonso in her portrayal as his wife. Directors Brad Podowsky and Dan Gremley do an excellent job of placing you as viewer into lead character's shoes. Enjoyed villain turn by actor Antonio Ciano - believably scary. Definitely worth watching.

I enjoyed this film which is a family suspense drama based on true family stories. That's what hooked me and it's a slow build up to the conclusion but worth it although I had a feeling about who the "bad guy" was from their introduction. The lead actor is good as he uncovers family secrets but the supporting characters could have been developed more. I liked the cinematography and the overall look of the film, much more professional than other independent films of this genre. Editing could have been a little snappier to bring out the suspense but the noir-ish score is top notch and surprisingly jazzy in parts, which I loved.

Silent as the Grave is a rich and complicated mystery/drama. It feels rare to find a modern day movie in the mystery genre that is so well plotted out and executed. A documentary filmmaker investigates his uncle's mysterious death, but falls into a world of danger, threats, uncertainty, and secrets. There isn't so much documentary filmmaking being done by the main character, rather the story focuses on his detective work in trying to solve the mystery. This movie will truly keep you on the edge of your seat and it will keep you guessing. The writing and direction were great, along with an interesting score.

I enjoy discovering new, truly independent productions, often hit or miss, Silent as the Grave is a major hit.

A simple well-made film, classy, with fine directing, acting. Michael Kunicki is an outstanding lead for this film, a Hitchcockian hero.

The directors Messrs. Gremley and Podowski give the material an old school thriller, mystery feel to it, film noir.

The Christmas theme throughout is a nice touch, contrary to the scenes unfolding, kept my interest throughout. Nice twists and turns, wonderfully not predictable.

The fact this is based on a true, personal story makes it all the more remarkable.

My hat's off to all involved!