Greatness!

Rating: 9/10 (25 February 2014)

'The Elephant Man' is a sensitive, heart-felt true-story of a man who lived despite being 'disfigured'. It salutes the courage of the extra-ordinary Joseph Merrick.
'The Elephant Man' Synopsis: A Victorian surgeon rescues a heavily disfigured man who is mistreated while scraping a living as a side-show freak. Behind his monstrous facade, there is revealed a person of intelligence and sensitivity.
'The Elephant Man' is a tale of courage & sheer bravery. Here's a film that's greatly Written & Directed. David Lynch, Christopher De Vore & Eric Bergren's Screenplay, which has been adapted by Federick Treves's "The Elephant Man and Other Reminiscences", is moving & superbly constructed. It tells Joseph Merrick's legendary tale with greatness. Lynch's Direction is top-notch. Cinematography is vast. Editing is crisp. Make-Up is brilliantly done. Art Design is perfect.
Performance-Wise: John Hurt is remarkable as the late/great Joseph Merrick, although he's referred as John Merrick in the film. Hurt delivers a performance that comes across as an astonishing embodiment. Sir Anthony Hopkins is lovable as the caring & concerned doctor. Also, The on-screen chemistry between Hurt & Hopkins, is simply superb.
On the whole, 'The Elephant Man' is among the best films from the 1980's. It's a film with a heart.