William Lindsay Gresham's classic noir novel, "Nightmare Alley" was published 80 years ago this year, 1946! This was his first and most successful novel by the way. Gresham was inspired to write the book apparently after conversations he had with a former carnival worker while serving as volunteers in the Spanish Civil War! 

The novel was purchased by Hollywood as a vehicle for 20th Century Fox star, Tyrone Power! Power had just served in WW2 and was known for his swashbuckling, romantic leading man roles. He got his way and was the star of the film , which had a significant budget which was unusual for a 'film noir". The film unfortunately received mixed reviews and flopped big-time at the box office and wasn't even available on home video until 2005!!!

Fast forward to 2021, award winning filmmaker, Guillermo del Toro released his adaptation with an all-star cast including: Bradley Cooper (in the leading role), Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara & Willem Dafoe! This version didn't have the hopeful Hollywood ending of the original. This adaptation was just as bleak as Gresham's novel!  Like the 1947 film, this one bombed at the box office!

Both film versions released lavish home video releases courtesy of the Criterion Collection! If you want to hear me go deep into the history of the novel and the film versions, then click below!