A carnival comes to a small town, and its mysterious proprietor offers customers fantastic wish-fulfillment that bears a heavy price.
Writer Ray Bradbury originally conceived this story as a film vehicle for his friend Gene Kelly, but the two were unable to secure financing, and the idea was turned into a novel, published in 1962. Fifteen years later, Bradbury began the process of adapting the book for the screen, and the project eventually wound up at Disney's live action film division.
Steven Spielberg and David Lean were considered for the director's job, but Bradbury wound up bringing in veteran Jack Clayton, a previous collaborator on the script. Unfortunately, the two experienced serious disagreements with each other and the studio during the production. After the initial cut tested poorly with audiences, major changes were made under the supervision of Bradbury, including rewrites, reshoots, and a new musical score.
Despite good reviews, the film fared poorly at the box office but has gone on to achieve cult status, and is Bradbury's favorite screen adaptation of any of his works.
Academy Award-winner Jason Robards, Jr. heads a cast which also includes Jonathan Pryce (known for his role in Terry Gilliam's Brazil), Diane Ladd, and Pam Grier.
Running time is approx. 90 minutes.
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