Review of The Elephant Man (1980) by Zachary Z — 24 Nov 2008

A breath-taking expierence.

'The Elephant Man' is probably one of the most emotionally exhausting films you can find. The fact that it is based on a true story doesn't help. The film highlights mans inhumanity to man, but there is a glimmer of hope. That no matter, how bad things may get for us, we all have a chance at happiness. What I always enjoyed about the movie, is how it shows us how lucky we are not to have gone through the same terrors as an intelligent, loving and gentle man, who was abused and judged based soley on his outward appearence. Something he could not help or control.

John Merrick is a tragic character who is portrayed masterfully by John Hurt (Crystal Skull, Alien, V for Vendetta). Few people could have convincingly pulled of his body movements and speech, but Hurt gets lost within the character. Anthony Hopkins also gives a great performance as a Doctor who attempts to help John, yet can't help but feel guilty for what he does.

This is David Lynch's first major motion picture and I have to say he did a great job. The camera angles are great, the pacing is nice and everything is well written. His style doesn't overwhealm the movie, and is actually a benefit to the story.

The cinemetography is beautiful to look at. I love the gritty, wet and depressing atmosphere. The gas, smoke, heat and fire of the Victorian industries...it all sets the mood effectivly.

The music is quite interesting. much of the sound effects are loud and industrious (very Lynch), but it is still poetic in its own right. The rest of the music ranges from a carnival track that seems cruel and insane, to a beautiful song that will bring you to tears.

The movie was nominated for 8 Oscars, but didn't even win one. I think that is a real shame becasue this is one of my top 5 favorites. I do take some solace that the academy created a make-up Oscar when people were agitated because this film wasn't rewarded for it's top notch effects.

You don't want to miss this experience, I promise you won't for get it. He is not an monster, he is a human being like all of us.

Nothing will Die.