Tale of Tales

The film adapts stories from Giambattista Basile's 17th-century collection, The Pentamerone, blending elements of fantasy, horror, and romance. It follows the Queen of Selvascura, who desperately seeks motherhood; the King of Roccaforte, who becomes infatuated with a mysterious voice; and the King of Altomonte, whose obsession with a flea leads him to neglect his daughter.

Matteo Garrone, known for his visually striking and often surreal style, brings these interconnected tales to life with elaborate sets and costumes that evoke a baroque fairy tale atmosphere. Salma Hayek Pinault’s portrayal of the Queen adds emotional depth to the story of desire and loss, while Vincent Cassel and Toby Jones contribute to the film’s exploration of power and madness.

The production involved multiple European companies, including Archimede and Le Pacte, and was filmed in various Italian locations to capture the period setting authentically. The film’s blend of fantasy and horror elements alongside its complex character relationships gives it a distinctive tone that appeals to collectors interested in genre-crossing cinema.

Collectors may find the film’s physical releases notable for showcasing Garrone’s visual craft and the ensemble cast’s performances. The film is available across formats such as Blu-ray and DVD, often appreciated for its art direction and the atmospheric score that complements its dark narrative. Its cult status among fans of adult fairy tales and European fantasy cinema adds to its collector interest.