Carny
Carny

Carny

1980Movie107 minEnglish

Tired of being a small-town waitress, Donna departs with the latest carnival show, living with entertainers Frankie and Patch in a tense, emotional triangle.

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Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes67%
Director: Robert KaylorGenres: Drama, Crime

Plot Summary

A young drifter named Donna falls in with a traveling carnival and becomes involved with a charismatic but troubled carny boss named Frankie. As their relationship deepens, Donna is drawn into the harsh realities of carnival life, facing petty crime, exploitation, and the constant struggle for survival. Frankie, meanwhile, grapples with his own demons and his responsibility towards Donna amidst the transient and often dangerous world they inhabit.

Critical Reception

Carny received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising the performances, particularly Gary Busey and Jodie Foster, and the authentic portrayal of carnival life. However, some found the plot to be somewhat uneven and the tone occasionally bleak.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its gritty and authentic depiction of the carnival world.
  • Gary Busey and Jodie Foster deliver compelling and memorable performances.
  • Some critics found the narrative to be underdeveloped or overly grim.

Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available from Google reviews.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location at actual carnivals across the United States, contributing to its authentic atmosphere.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Oldmoviegal

Oldmoviegal

Carny is like a documentary inside a film. The movie revolves around the carnies and their day to day operations and personal lives. Jodie Foster stars as Donna, a bored 18 year old small town waitress who dreams of more excitement. One ni...