The Elephant Man - Review

"I am not an animal! I am a human being! I am… a man!" – A review of The Elephant Man. 

Sometimes you discover a film so poignant that you know it'll stay with you forever. A film that's sensitive and devastating, a film based on real lives and real pain, and those films change the way you see the world. The Elephant Man really is one of those films.

Directed by the legendary David Lynch and released in 1980, The Elephant Man explores the life of Joseph Merrick, known as John Merrick in the film. John lives with severe physical deformities and whilst being subjected to life in a Victorian freak show, is discovered by Dr Frederick Treves. After a life in squalor and exploitation, John slowly becomes recognised for his intelligence and gentle nature in London Hospital, where Treves seeks to provide him with dignity, respect and sanctuary. As the plot continues, John faces both prejudice and kindness as the film explores cruelty, compassion, human connection and acceptance.

John Hurt is nothing short of phenomenal as John Merrick. His portrayal is vulnerable yet dignified, a deeply moving performance which had me in tears several times throughout. Dr Frederick Treves is played by Anthony Hopkins, who brings a subtle humanity to the role as he navigates the moral dilemmas he faces every single day. There isn't a bad performance in the film; each actor brings emotional depth and nuance to their role, helping to bring the story to life.

Something truly integral to the film is the black and white cinematography. It creates an elegant but haunting atmosphere, and the use of shadows and textured lighting helps to enhance both the setting and the emotional tone, making you feel like you're there in Victorian London, heightening the realism and intimacy of the story. The sound design is subtle too, complimenting and enhancing the emotional depth of the story without overwhelming it – there are little distractions in this film, the visuals and audio are designed in such a way that your focus remains ever on the characters and their journeys, which is exactly right for a film of this nature.

At the heart of the film, The Elephant Man explores themes of dignity, compassion and the nature of humanity in such a sensitive and thought-provoking way. It addresses societal exclusion and prejudice and emanates empathy as you watch John struggle to find acceptance. You're forced to reflect on the emotional impact of difference and othering whilst understanding the importance of kindness, and that's exactly what this true story should do to an audience.

This is such a beautiful film. Thought-provoking, emotional and full of strong, nuanced performances and evocative themes, The Elephant Man is the kind of film that never leaves you. Deeply compelling and devastatingly beautiful, this is a film that I truly believe every single person should watch at least once.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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