The Mortuary Collection (2019) is a stylish and inventive horror anthology that breathes new life into the portmanteau format. Set in a gothic funeral home, the film follows a young woman named Sam who applies for a job under the watchful eye of the enigmatic mortician, Montgomery Dark. As part of her interview, Dark regales her with a series of twisted, phantasmagorical tales drawn from his long and distinguished career, each one a self-contained story of terror, morality, and dark humor.

Writer-director Ryan Spindell demonstrates a remarkable command of tone, seamlessly blending classic horror aesthetics with a modern sensibility. The film's production design is a character in itself, with the mortuary serving as a wonderfully creepy framing device. Clancy Brown delivers a standout performance as Montgomery Dark, bringing a perfect mix of gravitas, menace, and weary wisdom to the role. The supporting cast in each segment is equally compelling, selling the unique horrors of their respective stories.

What makes The Mortuary Collection worth watching is its commitment to practical effects and its love for the genre. Each tale—ranging from a cautionary fable about a pickpocket to a more intimate domestic horror—is crafted with care and a clear directorial vision. The film doesn't just aim to scare; it aims to entertain and surprise, often subverting expectations with clever twists. For fans of anthology horror like Creepshow or Tales from the Crypt, this is a must-watch, offering a satisfyingly dark and imaginative collection of stories held together by a compelling narrative frame. It's a testament to the enduring power of a well-told, macabre tale.