The Elephant Man

1980 • 123 minutes

About this movie

All the human spirit needs to thrive...is a chance. In one of his most legendary films, director David Lynch chronicles the intense emotional journey of a complex, lonely man and the dedicated surgeon who changed his life. John Merrick (John Hurt) was born with a horribly disfiguring congenital disease, and suffered the humiliation of being a sideshow freak. Only when London doctor Frederick Treves (Anthony Hopkins, SILENCE OF THE LAMBS, RED DRAGON) rescues him does Merrick begin to regain the life of dignity and respect that everyone deserves. Based on a true story, the critically acclaimed, Oscar®-nominated film has earned its place in cinematic history. Anne Bancroft, John Gielgud and Wendy Hiller lend moving performances to an already powerful story. Visually fascinating and historically relevant, Lynch has created a haunting masterpiece of compassion, beauty and ultimately, humanity.

Ratings and reviews

I like this film now but I was 7 years old when I 1st saw this so I was terrified by the look of John Merrick (and the fact this really happens) but now that I'm older this is a sad and charming film

Honestly, I haven't watched the movie, but I've seen scenes and the trailer, and I honestly think Merrick had it harder than any other kid at the time. And he had to cope with every single abnormal thing about him in public! It gets a little rough when you have to cope with something about you that isn't considered "publicly normal." Take it from me: I was born with a Hare lip, and had to get surgery to close it and in turn make my nose crooked. I have to cope with that! I'm in John's shoes now!

This is a must watch. I've always put off watching this film because it sounds like a ludicrous story, I was severely wrong. The conflicts, the story and the characters are perfect. This is one of Lynch's best.