Review of The Elephant Man (1980) by Tyler M — 31 Mar 2012

People are frightened by what they don't understand.

It's a heartwarming story, that will leave you speechless.

The Story: It's the true story of John Merrick, also known as "The Elephant Man", and the doctor that saw him as something more than a freak. For anyone that might not know, John Merrick was a horribly disfigured man, who led a life of abuse as a sideshow freak. This story is one that as I said before, everyone should see and hear. It's as heartwarming as it is heartbreaking, and you won't soon forget it. It's cinematography is great, and it's overall gritty style is a great way to tell the tale. This film also has some of the most notable makeup effects ever to be seen. This film was made in 1980, but even today is something impressive, as John Merrick is fully realized with fine precision.

The Cast: Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt... Anthony Hopkins is Dr. Frederick Treves, the man that took John Merrick in and gave him a place and a reason to live. I've seen a lot of Hopkins movies, but this one is my favorite. He gives a great performance, and you'll honestly feel a good solid connection with him, you'll feel the warmth of his heart, and the guilt of his mind as he takes a look at his own life. John Hurt is John Merrick, the Elephant Man, a deformed man who's lost everything in life because the world is just a cold place. He gives one of the greatest performances in the world here, if you don't feel for this man you're heartless. When he cries, it honestly makes the viewer want to cry with him. Yeah, he's that good. There's a surprising amount of depth to the character of John Merrick, and John Hurt shows it with this amazing performance.

One to Five Scale: 5.

Highest of recommendations for this film. It's an all out drama, and it's from 1980, but it's definitely worth any trouble it might be to find it.

Tyler.

03/27/06.