Tales from the Darkside: The Movie is an American anthology film of the horror genre. It is based on the syndicated television series Tales from the Darkside, developed by George A. Romero. The movie features three tales of terror within a wraparound story and was directed by John Harrison screenplays written by Michael McDowell, and George Romero. The film was produced by the Laurel Group and Paramount Pictures and premiered theatrically in the U.S. on May 4th, 1990. The film is notable for featuring former Blondie singer Debbie Harry in the role of Betty, the witch in the framing story.
"Lot 249" is based on the story "Lot No. 249" by author Arthur Conan Doyle. It was first published in Harper's Magazine in September, 1892.
"Cat from Hell" is based on a short story called "The Cat from Hell" by author Stephen King. The first segment of the story was published in Cavalier in March, 1977, with the completed story being published in June.
"Lover's Vow" is an original story written specifically for this film.
The gargoyle featured in "Lover's Vow" is based on the Yuki-onna, a spirit or yōkai in Japanese folklore or more specifically Lafcadio Hearn's version in Kwaidan: Stories and Studies of Strange Things.
