Nightmare Alley (1947)

 

The rise and fall of Stanton Carlisle, a mentalist whose lies and deceit prove to be his downfall.

Remarkable drama with heavy noir and goth overtones, a dislikable hero (an unusual role for Tyrone Power), good circus settings and a devastating ending.

Halliwell**: "Unusual road to ruin melodrama, a striking oddity from Hollywood at the time,, and still quite interesting and well done."

Maltin***1/2: "Morbid but fascinating story...highly original melodrama. Compelling look at carny life..."