“Tale of Tales” is a 2015 dark fantasy horror film directed by Matteo Garrone, who also co-wrote and co-produced the movie. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes Salma Hayek, Vincent Cᴀssel, Toby Jones, and John C. Reilly, the film is based on Pentamerone, a collection of fairy tales by the Italian poet Giambattista Basile. The film presents a series of interconnected, eerie stories set in a fantastical, medieval world. With its dark atmosphere, striking visuals, and haunting narratives, “Tale of Tales” immerses viewers in a twisted fairy tale world that explores themes of obsession, desire, and the darker side of human nature.

“Tale of Tales” is structured as a trilogy of interconnected stories, each focusing on different characters living in a medieval, magical realm. The first story follows a queen (Salma Hayek) who, desperate for a child, makes a ᴅᴇᴀᴅly pact with a mysterious creature. The second tale centers on a king (Vincent Cᴀssel) who becomes obsessed with capturing a rare creature for his own gain, leading to tragic consequences. The third story is about an elderly king (John C. Reilly) whose infatuation with a beautiful woman takes a bizarre turn. Each narrative delves into themes of greed, sacrifice, and the consequences of unchecked desire, all while remaining rooted in the surreal and the macabre.

One of the most striking elements of “Tale of Tales” is its visuals. The film’s cinematography, led by director of pH๏τography Nicolai Brüel, creates a rich, atmospheric world full of lush landscapes, eerie castles, and surreal imagery. The costumes and set designs are period-appropriate yet fantastical, adding to the film’s otherworldly quality. Garrone masterfully blends beautiful, ornate visuals with the grotesque, highlighting the contrast between the fairy tale world’s enchantment and the darkness that lurks within it. The haunting score further enhances the film’s eerie atmosphere, making it an immersive viewing experience.

“Tale of Tales” is steeped in symbolism, with its dark themes revolving around obsession, desire, and the consequences of vanity. The film explores the destructive power of longing, as the characters’ insatiable desires lead them to make dangerous choices. Whether it is a queen willing to sacrifice her own humanity for a child, a king obsessed with an unearthly creature, or a ruler fixated on beauty, the film delves into how unchecked desires can lead to destruction. The narratives also explore the nature of power, illustrating how the pursuit of control and domination over others often results in tragedy.

“Tale of Tales” is a haunting and visually stunning film that takes audiences on a journey into the darker side of fairy tales. With its unsettling narratives, strong performances, and a world that is both beautiful and grotesque, the film is a bold reimagining of classic fairy tale themes. Matteo Garrone’s direction, combined with its strong cast, creates a unique cinematic experience that is as visually captivating as it is unsettling. For those who appreciate dark fantasy and fairy tales with a twist, “Tale of Tales” offers a gripping exploration of human desires and their consequences.