Review of Freaks (1932) by Joe L — 23 Mar 2010
Wow Tod Browning is brilliant and I would even argue that this film is his true masterpiece and not Dracula. It's bold in so many ways and after reading Geek Love I figured it was the perfect time to see this.
The movie is incredible because it uses no make up these "Freaks" are actual actors with real deformities. The only travesty is that it was edited down to a mere 64 minutes from the original 90.
Still the movie gets away with a great ending with a similar message and shock value. It centers entirely in a circus and the relationship of a beautiful trapeze artist who tricks a young dwarf into marrying her for his money.
What follows is the true bond these side show freaks have for each other and our lead lady gets a full taste of it. The movie is considered to be horror mainly for the ending and the shock of the time at seeing real disfigured people on screen.
Though most of the movie is about friendship and how though these people are outcasts to society the bond they have between each other is stronger and more supportive than most "normal" people have with their friends or family.
There is no way I'd spoil the ending, but I will say it's the most daring film of it's time I've ever seen and a must see for anyone. Freaks is a true masterpiece and I hope it will never be forgotten.
This review of Freaks (1932) was written by Joe L on 23 Mar 2010.
Freaks has generally received very positive reviews.
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