Such an amazing film - no fans?!?!

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I remembered seeing it but also remembered that it wasn't as good as it could have been. Now that I have seen it again, I remembered why. A lot of the dialog seems poorly improvised, the characters weren't developed and the soundtrack got on my nerves. A few of the older actors were able to transcend their limitations, along with Gary Busey, who was able to steal every scene, but that isn't saying much, unfortunately. Technically this should have been a career-killer for Jodie Foster, as she just walked through the movie like she didn't know where she was going and didn't much care.

Revenge is a dish that best goes stale.

Here's one. I bought the DVD and am really appreciating Robbie Robertson, as he plays the carny manipulator/negotiator in this fantastic movie of Jodie Foster and Gary Busey. Behind Gary's tough guy demeanor there are those sweet little boy eyes. I never appreciated him before.
I'll be seeing this one again.


"He who swaps his liberty for the promise of 'security' deserves neither." Ben Franklin

I'm a big fan, just was unable to find the film until recently. Didn't seem to be widely available. Saw it on theatrical release and loved it.

Made me a Gary Busey fan. Thought his and Robertson's take on the buddies who get drawn into a triangle was very good. Better than the later Fabulous Baker Boys. Drew elements from Of Mice and Men too that were done well.

This is the Jodie Foster I was hoping for much more of as an adult actress. Seems like after she went to college she dropped all of her aluring traits and went for intellectual roles instead. Maybe the John Hinckley thing made her afraid she would attract stalkers if she continued. But she was excellent in this type role.

A movie that has stayed with me for decades. Many I forget before the year is out, but not this one. Not great, but has a great impact on the watcher. Also the first time I saw the behind the scenes of a travelling sideshow/freakshow. That part was fascinating.

I really like this film. It does of good job of conveying that gritty, soiled feel of people traveling with the carnival. Elisha Cook Jr. is a stand out!
I saw this film on a double bill with Nightmare Alley. I wish that Mr. Robertson had done more film work, he was a natural. Jody and Gary Busey weren't too shabby either.

Watched it last night. I enjoyed it too. I wish it had stuck to the characters instead of going a little over-the-top there at the end. PROS: good acting, interesting characters, interesting perspective of a world I know nothing about. CONS: the happy ending fix cheated the film of possibly rendering some real insights, some gawky direction.

My rating: 7