

directed by
David Lynch
featuring
Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt, Anne Bancroft, John Gielgud, Wendy Hiller
John Hurt stars as John Merrick, the hideously deformed 19th century Londoner known as "The Elephant Man". Treated as a sideshow freak, Merrick is assumed to be retarded as well as misshapen because of his inability to speak coherently. In fact, he is highly intelligent and sensitive, a fact made public when one Dr. Frederick Treves (Anthony Hopkins) rescues Merrick from a carnival and brings him to a hospital for analysis. Alas, even after being recognized as a man of advanced intellect, Merrick is still treated like a ...
Lorin H
May 7, 2020
Although not following the Elephant Man's life exactly (from what I've read), the movie brings compassion for his life, and shows that life can be difficult yet noble. The story is profound. The characters are well chosen, and I think the acting is very good. The black-and-white filming helps the movie feel like a different period of time. The photography and sets enhance the movie to bring out feelings and understanding that make this a truly memorable movie.