One of the most brilliant and touching movies ever made. Beautifully acted drama film based on the story of the real life 19th Century Englishman Joseph Merrick (called John Merrick in the film). The stroy of the film follows John from his squalid existance as a freak show performer who is severely deformed and living a horrible existance, to an improved life in one of London's hospitals. However, even in his rescuer, he remains a freak for others amusement, even as he tries to behave as a human being. Fantastic direction by David Lynch and stellar performances by John Hurt as John Merrick and Anthony Hopkins as the surgeon Frederick Treves. Human nature and frailty is wonderfully played out in black and white, adding wonderfully to the cinematic experience.
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Description
The Elephant Man
Dr. Frederic Treves (Anthony Hopkins) discovers Joseph (John) Merrick (John Hurt) in a sideshow. Born with a congenital disorder, Merrick uses his disfigurement to earn a living as the “Elephant Man.” Treves brings Merrick into his home, discovering that his rough exterior hides a refined soul, and that Merrick can teach the stodgy British upper class of the time a lesson about dignity. Merrick becomes the toast of London and charms a caring actress (Anne Bancroft) before his death at 27.
- Best Picture BAFTA Winner 1980.
Critic Reviews:
- " It is an absorbing and satisfying drama, and Hurt's Merrick is very powerful. " – Peter Bradshaw
- " Many Lynchian tropes are here, from a sense of foreboding to a fascination with the grotesque, in terms of Merrick and outsiders' reactions to him. " – Ed Potton
- " From deep beneath layers of latex makeup, Hurt inhabits a highly specific physical and behavioral characterization, while also conveying the essential, universal loneliness of the human soul. " – Adam Nayman
- Region 4
- 2.35 : 1
- Dolby Digital Surround 2.0
- Biography
- Drama
Videos
Marketplace listings
Comments: New. region 4 (NZ). 20th Anniversary Edition. Sorry, no Rural Delivery or POBox addresses accepted.
or $10.50 post
Comments: 2th Anniversary Edition. Untracked post is actually tracked option for rural delivery. y18
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