Step into the haunting world of Dante’s Inferno, a 1935 drama-horror film that explores the corrupting power of greed and the ultimate reckoning for one’s sins. Directed by Harry Lachman, this cinematic adaptation of Dante Alighieri’s Inferno delivers a unique blend of moral storytelling and surreal imagery. Now beautifully colorized for modern audiences, this HD download revitalizes one of Hollywood’s most visually arresting films of the 1930s.
The story follows Jim Carter (Spencer Tracy), an unemployed stoker who takes over a carnival attraction depicting scenes from Dante’s Inferno. Under Carter’s management, the exhibit becomes a lucrative success, but his unscrupulous business practices—including bribery and unsafe expansions—lead to devastating consequences.
Carter marries Betty McWade (Claire Trevor), niece of the carnival’s original owner Pop McWade (Henry B. Walthall), and they have a son. However, Carter’s relentless pursuit of wealth results in tragedy: a pier collapse injures Pop, an inspector commits suicide after being bribed, and Carter loses his family. The film culminates in a surreal vision of Hell, where Carter confronts the consequences of his greed and witnesses eternal punishment for sinners.
This morality tale is both a cautionary story about avarice and a reflection on redemption, making it a compelling piece of Depression-era cinema.
The film features standout performances from its talented cast:
Spencer Tracy as Jim Carter
Claire Trevor as Betty McWade
Henry B. Walthall as Pop McWade
Alan Dinehart as Jonesy
Scotty Beckett as Alexander Carter
Dante’s Inferno falls into the genre of drama-horror with strong elements of morality and surrealism. Its depiction of Hell is visually striking, blending Lachman’s background as an Impressionist painter with German Expressionist influences.
Released in 1935 during the Great Depression, Dante’s Inferno reflects societal anxieties about greed, corruption, and economic collapse. The film’s themes resonate deeply with audiences of its time, offering both entertainment and moral lessons.
The movie is also notable for its groundbreaking visuals. The ten-minute depiction of Hell—crafted using stock footage from the Italian silent film L’Inferno (1911)—features surreal imagery such as burning cliffs, chained souls across abysses, and grotesque punishments for sinners. These sequences remain iconic examples of early cinematic artistry.
This colorized version breathes new life into Lachman’s dramatic vision. Advanced digital techniques were employed to enhance the film’s visual storytelling while preserving its original atmosphere. The fiery reds and ominous shadows bring Hell to vivid life, amplifying its emotional impact on viewers.
While some purists may debate colorizing classic black-and-white films, this restoration introduces Dante’s Inferno to new audiences while honoring its artistic legacy.
Director: Harry Lachman
Screenplay: Phillip Klein & Robert M. Yost
Based on: Dante Alighieri’s Inferno
Cinematography: Rudolph Maté
Edited by: Alfred DeGaetano
Production Company: Fox Film Corporation
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Runtime: 89 minutes
Download Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Works seamlessly on smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
While not widely regarded as one of Spencer Tracy’s finest works (he reportedly disliked it), Dante’s Inferno has earned recognition for its ambitious visuals and unique approach to morality tales. Critics have praised its surreal Hell sequences as groundbreaking examples of cinematic art.
The film also holds historical significance as Fox Film Corporation’s last production before merging with Twentieth Century Pictures to form 20th Century-Fox Film Corporation. Its bold visual style influenced later films exploring themes of sin and redemption.
Q: What is Dante’s Inferno about?
A: It’s a drama-horror film about Jim Carter’s rise to power through unethical practices and his ultimate reckoning in Hell.
Q: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes! This restored HD version enhances the original visuals with vibrant colors while maintaining its dramatic essence.
Q: What makes Dante’s Inferno unique?
A: Its striking depiction of Hell—crafted using stock footage from L’Inferno (1911)—and its blend of moral storytelling set it apart from other films of the era.
Q: Who stars in the movie?
A: Spencer Tracy leads as Jim Carter alongside Claire Trevor, Henry B. Walthall, Alan Dinehart, and Scotty Beckett.
Q: What resolution is available for download?
A: The film is available in HD (1080p), ensuring high-quality viewing on all devices.
Witness the Power and Punishment of Dante’s Inferno Today!