The Elephant Man (1980)

Foremost in the cinematic achievements of director David Lynch, is the story of John Merrick, aka the Elephant Man.

Played by the fantastic John Hurt, Mr Merrick is a tragically disfigured man, whose body was born terribly deformed after his mother was trampled by an elephant during pregnancy. John is found in a travelling circus, as part of the Freak Show, by a curious doctor called Frederick Treves (Anthony Hopkins). The ringmaster of the circus is John’s “owner”, who exploits The Elephant Man to make his show profitable, as well as abusing John, whipping him like an animal.

After Dr Treves sees John’s shocking appearance, he takes him into the hospital, where he attempts to learn more about the disfigurement, as well as the man underneath. What Treves discovers is a tortured but beautiful soul, an intelligent man who has suffered not only a terrible fate, but also the appalling cruelty of a society which devours the abnormal and different. While Treves brings Merrick out of his protective shell, slowly giving him more confidence, darker members of society reveal themselves, who hope to continue exploiting The Elephant Man.

Lynch’s film is evocative, bringing to surface aspects of the human condition which we very rarely want to examine. Merrick’s appearance, whilst shocking, is not the most disturbing aspect of this film. The part which will stay with you, is the human reaction to John’s plight, how he is exploited for our own needs within a consumer culture, and used as a “monster” for social control. Our own voyeuristic tendencies are played with, and manipulated, throughout the film, which creates a viewing experience that is uncomfortable yet absorbing (pure Lynchian). John Hurt’s performance is filled with subtle dignity and sensitivity, giving Merrick the attributes which make his character so intensely fascinating.

Anthony Hopkins also delivers a marvellous, complex performance, of a man who is deeply intrigued by this poor character, but who experiences none of the horror which seems to strike others who encounter him.

David Lynch has chosen to depict this Victorian story in black and white, giving the film tremendous amounts of pathos and emotion. The original music, by John Morris, adds a great deal of depth and authenticity to the film’s aesthetics, and brings the era to life.

Arguably the best way to be introduced to the work of David Lynch, The Elephant Man has all of the power and effect of the director, but with equal amounts of sentiment, pathos and tenderness.