*NOTE*: John Merrick's real name was Joseph Merrick, so that what he will be reffered to from now on.
In most societies, when we see something that does not look "normal" to us we naturally fear it. Even if this soething is hurting, sick or even dying, we run in fear because what we see is ugly. But we are drawn to these "freaks" in a way unlike no other.
This is very sad for many reasons, not the least of which is that these "freaks" usually end up in side-show attractions like Joseph Merrick did.
Joseph Carrey Merrick (John Hurt) was born in the 1800's in England. During the fourth month of pregnancy, his mother was struck down by an elephant, and hurt. Months later, she gave birth to Joseph. He was born OK but slowly developed massive tumors all over his body causing major deformities to his face, arm and body.
At a young age he was taken by a side-show operator and spent his life being gawked at by the horrified public. He was beaten by the side-show owner, and treated like a farm dog. And because of his large head, Joseph cannot sleep like normal people; he must sleep sitting up.
One day, at age 21, he was spotted by Dr. Frederick Treves (Anthony Hopkins) of the London hospital. Taking him away from the side-show, Treves sets Joseph up in the London hospital, to some misgivings. But once Joseph prooves himself sane, smart, and kind, he is allowed to stay for a while.
Joseph is well cared for in the hospital, and makes many friends; women, as well, even members of the Royal Family.
Here, at the hospital, Joseph is treated like royalty, and is admired for his braveness and courage. Jospeh has lived at the hospital now for about five years, as this had become his permanent home.
Them, one day, after having tea with important people, getting presents from admirers, and making many friends, he was taken to a play at a theater: Puss in boots.
Later that night, Joseph, at the hopital, decides that he is going to sleep like a normal person, and in doing this, he passes away.
Joseph's head was so large that when he slept normally, the weight of his head crushed his neck and asphyxiated himself.
Joseph was 27 years old.
At first Joseph was thought to have Elephantiasis, a tropical condition which is transmitted by mosquitos which enlarges areas infected to gigantic proportions. Later he was thought to have Neurofibromatosis, a nervous system condition which creates tumors over the body.
In the 1970's Joseph Merrick's condition was changed from the previous condition to Proteus Syndrom, a much rarer condition affecting 100-200 people in the world. This is generally excepted as his true illness.
If you would like to learn more about Joseph Merrick, visit this wonderful site: Joseph Merrick
Anthony Hopkins is exceptional as Fredrick Treves, and John Hurt could not have been better as Joseph Merrick. In fact, the whole cast work very well together.
This film is a grand historical reference to the life of Joseph Merrick. Althought there are several glaring inconsistancies, is it still a great film.
As a side note, this film was executive produced by Mel "Blazing Saddles" Brooks. He didn't want people to think that The Elephant Man was a comedy, so he left his name off ALL the credits.
Plot: 
A wonderful account of Joseph Merrick's life.
Visual Effects: 
The black & white cinematography makes this film feel like a 1930's film yet it is from 1980. The film would have benfited from color, although the horrifying condition of Joseph may have been frightful to some if shown in true color.
Sound:
Above average.
Character Development:
Atmosphere:
Realism: 
Joseph Merrick's name was not "John," and the scene where the hospital concil debate weather to keep Joseph there NEVER happened. Also, there was NO note from Queen Victoria. Still, it is a great film about the life a truely poor soul.
Warren’s Rating:
Movies it was nominated with for Best Picture:
Coal Miner's Daughter, (1980); *Ordinary People, (1980); Raging Bull, (1980); Tess, (1980)
7.85/10 Is the movie worth your time to watch?
19-10-03
