Review of Freaks (1932) by Chris — 17 Mar 2009
Probably the strangest film to come out of major studio Hollywood, it was orignially an attempt by MGM to cash-in on the success of the first wave of early 30s horror films. Browning had a background in sideshows however, and MGM got far more than they bargained for as Browning gathered a cast of some of the most famous human oddities and performers for the film, rather than using make-up effects.
This resulted in a very controversial film that still provokes strong reactions today. As a film it is a bit clunky, and Brownings inexperience and dislike of sound films does show. However it does show an insight and compassion towards the sideshow industry, and the close knit community of the performers.
If the final freak attack somewhat undercuts some of the sympathies built up during the film, it is still a disturbing sequence and has justification in the story after the cruel treatment shown by some of the "normal" characters.
This review of Freaks (1932) was written by Chris on 17 Mar 2009.
Freaks has generally received very positive reviews.
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