January 31st Log

NIGHTMARE ALLEY
1947, Edmund Goulding, United States
Repeat Vieiwng, DVD

Lead by a fascinating performance (and very different role then he was known for) from Tyrone Power, Nightmare Alley is a gritty and energetic film noir. Power plays a classic "doomed" noir character. Nightmare Alley is a rare film that suffered through struggles with Fox Studio, which refused to release the film and battled with the films producer (George Jessel). This has since proven to be a film ahead of it's time. Power's performance is truly special in the darkest and most complex role of his career and the film effectively plays with his star status. The film is directed by Edmund Goulding, who was known for much more sophisticated and elegant dramas, but this may very well be his finest achievement. Nightmare Alley is a difficult film to explain, but there is just something about it that is unforgettable. "I was born for it."


PRIDE & PREJUDICE
2005, Joe Wright, United Kingdom / United States
Repeat Viewing, DVD

I decided to close out my month of Jane Austen adaptations with what it my personal favorite cinematic adaptation of her finest work: 2005's Pride and Prejudice. I have seen this film many times and I will continue to revisit it often as it warms my heart with joy. I love every little detail of this story and these characters, and from the beautiful opening moment Joe Wright brings them alive through a dazzlingly stylish and energetic cinematic style. The filmmaking is masterful, the performances lovely, and the story enriching and romantic. A masterpiece on levels of literature, and of film. This is more and more becoming a modern-day classic and personal favorite!!