Nightmare Alley Blu-ray Review

The Criterion Blu-ray release of "Nightmare Alley" presents an impressive 1080p transfer, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and framed in its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio. This new digital transfer, executed in 4K resolution at Cineric in New York using a proprietary 4K HDR wet-gate film scanner, utilizes a 35mm nitrate composite print from the Disney/Fox Collection at the UCLA Film & Television Archive. Despite not being struck from a first-generation element (OCN), the restoration is commendable for its organic qualities and excellent image stability. Grain is naturally present throughout, although it sometimes appears subdued in darker scenes due to source limitations, and highlights can occasionally appear overexposed. However, the grayscale balance remains superb, and the restoration work ensures a clean, stable film experience with no significant anomalies.

The transferred image offers remarkable clarity, with excellent contrast and shadow delineation. The nuanced cinematography of Lee Garmes is faithfully honored; inky blacks and stable whites contribute to a beautifully modulated grayscale that enhances both crowded scenes and intimate shadowy sequences. Close-ups are particularly striking, revealing subtle details such as facial features and textures with exceptional crispness. Noise management has been applied effectively without disrupting the film's natural aesthetic. The absence of digital artifacts and the meticulous attention to detail ensure that "Nightmare Alley" has never looked better on home video, providing a visually satisfying experience for fans and newcomers alike.

The audio presentation on this Blu-ray release of "Nightmare Alley" features an English LPCM 1.0 track, supplemented with optional English SDH subtitles. The restoration of the audio is immediately evident, presenting a full range of nuanced dynamics, which is particularly impressive in the upper register where older films often exhibit weaknesses. This monaural soundtrack has been meticulously remastered from a 35mm nitrate composite print with a variable-density track sourced from the Disney/Fox Collection at the UCLA Film & Television Archive.

The resulting audio track is robust and well-modulated, producing clear and distinct sonic accents like sirens, truck motors, and honking horns. It handles the dynamic scale of Cyril Mockridge's melodramatic music score effectively, with no distortion. Dialogue reproduction is excellent, with all spoken lines easily comprehensible. While there is some very faint surface noise during extended silences, the overall track is notably free from significant age-related defects. The clear and stable performance of this restored audio mix significantly enhances the viewing experience.

The Blu-ray edition of "Nightmare Alley" comes enriched with a captivating selection of supplementary materials that offer a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of this film noir classic. The disc features an insightful audio commentary by film historians James Ursini and Alain Silver, who provide detailed analysis and contextual depth by connecting the film to its author and exploring its moral dichotomies. Cinema enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse range of content, from actress Coleen Gray's archival interview detailing Tyrone Power's casting nuances to Todd Robbins' deep dive into carnival history. Critic Imogen Sara Smith offers a thorough critique of the film's noir elements, while an archival audio interview with director Henry King adds historical texture about his collaborations with Power. A vintage trailer rounds out this impressive collection.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Film historians Ursini and Silver's extensive analysis.
• Imogen Sara Smith: Critic discusses themes and production aspects.
• Todd Robbins: Sideshow historian explores carnival influences.
• Coleen Gray: Actress recalls her involvement in the film.
• Henry King: Director discusses collaborations with Tyrone Power.
• Trailer: Vintage preview of "Nightmare Alley."
• Leaflet: Illustrated essay by Kim Morgan.
• Tarot Cards: Six themed tarot cards.

Edmund Goulding's Nightmare Alley (1947) emerges as a masterwork of film noir, blending cynicism, moral degradation, and raw human ambition with unflinching prowess. Tyrone Power, in a career-defining role, stars as Stanton Carlisle, a small-time carnival worker who evolves into a charismatic mentalist exploiting his charm to rise through society's ranks. Power’s portrayal of Stan's transition from a fascination with the carnival world to his eventual downfall is both ruthless and compelling, highlighting his versatility beyond the swashbuckling roles that previously defined his career. His chemistry with female leads—Joan Blondell as Zeena, Coleen Gray as Molly, and Helen Walker as Lilith—adds layers of complexity to the narrative, each actress embodying different stages of Stan's moral journey.

The film's adaptation from William Lindsay Gresham's controversial novel was made more palpable for audiences of the time by altering the grim finale, though its dark tone still prevented immediate commercial success. Despite this initial lukewarm reception, Nightmare Alley has been consistently lauded as a quintessential noir classic over the decades. Goulding's direction capitalizes on the grim and insidious nature of the source material, offering an unflinching look at human ambition and its consequences. Jules Furthman's screenplay remains poignant, rich with subtext about the human condition and the inherent dichotomy between players and those played.

Technically, the film excels through its crisp monochrome cinematography and engaging performances, particularly Power's nuanced depiction of Stan—a morally ambiguous protagonist whose rise and fall elicits both admiration and repulsion. The supporting cast, including Ian Keith’s touching portrayal of Pete and Mike Mazurki’s imposing presence, enhances the film’s depth. Nightmare Alley stands out not only for its narrative and performance but also for its higher production values uncommon in typical film noirs of the time. This restored Blu-ray edition from Criterion ensures that one of film noir’s most striking representations continues to captivate and resonate with modern audiences.

The new Criterion release of "Nightmare Alley" offers an exceptional opportunity to rediscover one of Hollywood’s finest film noirs. Tyrone Power, known for his swashbuckling roles, delivers what is arguably his best performance, transforming his traditional glamor-boy image into that of a complex and morally ambiguous character. Directed by Edmund Goulding, the film stylishly delves into the dark underbelly of human nature, making it a timeless classic. The Criterion presentation, sourced from a newly remastered 4K master, ensures that the visual and audio quality is outstanding. The richness of the black-and-white cinematography is beautifully preserved and complemented by crystal-clear sound.

In addition to the stellar technical aspects, Criterion has included a comprehensive set of special features that provide valuable context and insights. From behind-the-scenes footage to expert commentaries, these supplements deepen the understanding of the film's production and its enduring significance in the noir genre. Fans and newcomers alike will find these extras both engaging and informative, making this release a must-have for any collector.

It is strange that "Nightmare Alley" exists because once you discard its noir identity, it very quickly becomes the type of eye-opener Hollywood has always been uncomfortable tolerating. The film's dissection of life’s harsh realities is so simply accurate that it is genuinely disturbing, revealing uncomfortable truths about personal and professional relationships. This social sincerity is perhaps why the film remains timeless – its message is immune to intelligent refutation. Criterion’s upcoming release is sourced from a new and very good 4K master. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.