You know the text by E. A. Poe. This fact is used, in brilliant manner, by Alexandre Astruc as precise exploration of details. The cinematography gives all, from the pendulum to the rats and the face of Maurice Ronet. The movement of the walls of cell , the beeings in the pit, the states of prisoner are pieces of pure chess play between director and audience.
And, in some measure, you feel be more than a wise crafted version but a rediscover of the short story by Poe in its true essence.
In short, admirable work of camera , the beautiful atmosphere , created drop by drop and, sure Maurice Ronet , impressive for the each aspect of work, from facies, body movements and , not the last, voice.