Quentin Tarantino, a filmmaker known for his encyclopedic knowledge of cinema, has expressed that certain classic movies can still be considered underrated despite their classic status. This perspective suggests a layered debate, as many classics eventually gain recognition either when they are not appreciated in their initial release or are underappreciated during their theatrical runs. Tarantino’s focus on Edmund Goulding’s 1947 film “Nightmare Alley” exemplifies this idea.
“Nightmare Alley” initially faced poor box office results and received a lukewarm reception from critics. However, over time, it has come to be seen as an exemplary film noir. Despite not frequently appearing on the lists of the greatest films, it has garnered a posthumous appreciation, much like Orson Welles’ “Citizen Kane” and Ridley Scott’s “Blade Runner,” which faced similar fates but are now celebrated within cinematic history.
Modern audiences might associate “Nightmare Alley” more readily with Guillermo del Toro’s 2021 adaptation, which was intended as a new interpretation of William Lindsay Gresham’s source novel rather than a direct remake of the original film. Although del Toro’s version did not perform well at the box office, partially due to the pandemic’s impact, it was still acknowledged with four Academy Award nominations, including a nomination for Best Picture.
In Tarantino’s assessment, nothing quite matches the prowess of the original “Nightmare Alley” as a prime example of studio filmmaking, a sentiment he articulates in his book “Cinema Speculation.” He praises lead actor Tyrone Power for his exceptional performance and highlights the script adaptation by Jules Furthman, whom he regards as one of Hollywood’s great screenwriters.
Tarantino further contends that “Nightmare Alley” possesses the qualities of Italian neorealism, contrasting sharply with the typical American studio output of the 1940s, which often consisted of straightforward genre films. This era seldom emphasized innovation or boundary-pushing content, making the unique qualities of “Nightmare Alley” even more significant in his view.
The high regard in which Tarantino holds this film underscores his appreciation for cinema’s capacity to surprise and its enduring potential to be re-evaluated and celebrated long after its release. For Tarantino, “Nightmare Alley” serves as a masterpiece of studio filmmaking, a testament to the complex layers of cinema history that continue to intrigue and influence contemporary filmmakers.