Guillermo del Toro’s 2021 psychological thriller Nightmare Alley, nominated for an Academy Award, has been officially added to the Criterion Collection as part of their October home video offerings. This inclusion highlights the film’s significance and appeal within the Criterion catalog, catering to cinephiles and collectors alike.
Overview of Guillermo del Toro’s Nightmare Alley and Its Story
Adapted from William Lindsay Gresham’s 1946 novel, Nightmare Alley stars a prominent ensemble cast featuring Bradley Cooper, Cate Blanchett, Toni Collette, Willem Dafoe, Richard Jenkins, Rooney Mara, Ron Perlman, Mary Steenburgen, and David Strathairn. The story centers on a drifter who joins a 1930s carnival, mastering the art of mentalism, a performance technique involving psychic illusions like telepathy and hypnosis.
Details of the 4K UHD and Blu-ray Special Edition
Included in Criterion’s release is a director-approved 4K UHD and Blu-ray edition with exclusive special features. One notable addition is a new black-and-white extended version titled Nightmare Alley: Vision in Darkness and Light, overseen by del Toro and previously shown only in select cities. The package also contains the theatrical version of the film in 4K with Dolby Atmos sound and offers both Dolby Vision HDR and standard Blu-ray discs.
Additional Special Features Spotlight the Film’s Craft
- New audio commentary by Guillermo del Toro on the extended director’s cut
- A documentary exploring the film’s performances, visual style, costumes, production design, and music
- Exclusive conversations between del Toro and Bradley Cooper, as well as del Toro and co-screenwriter Kim Morgan
- Multiple trailers included for fan interest
- English subtitles for deaf and hard of hearing audiences, plus descriptive audio options
- An essay authored by crime-fiction expert Sarah Weinman
Connection to Previous Adaptations and Release Information
Del Toro’s adaptation joins Criterion’s collection alongside Edmund Goulding’s 1947 film version of Nightmare Alley. The new release is scheduled for October 28, providing audiences an opportunity to experience both the modern and classic takes on this haunting tale.
