Work of Genius

Rating: 10/10 (15 March 2014)

I think it is a testament to all people involved in the making of this film, that through the presentation of the life of one individual, such powerful messages about humanity; it's prejudices and fears; it's hopes and dreams; the decisions we make in regard to the way we communicate with and treat others, are conveyed with utter brilliance, whether that be through Christopher DeVore, Eric Bergren and David Lynch's screenplay; Lynch's trademark directorial style; John Morris' haunting fairground-esque soundtrack; Freddie Francis' grainy black-and-white cinematography; the exemplary performances of the likes of Anthony Hopkins (Dr. Frederick Treves), Anne Bancroft (Madge Kendal) and, the man himself, John Hurt (John Merrick); or perhaps, what I believe, a wonderful mix of all of these aspects, creating a motion picture masterpiece that visually and thematically gorgeous.
Being first introduced to this film through an interest in Victorian society as well as, in my opinion, the depth of atmosphere that can be produced in film through black-and-white, I feel privileged to have been allowed to immerse myself in such an unforgettable world that ties these two things together flawlessly.
I am not a person usually effected by emotion within film, (In most films, I tend to find it to be usually forced and contrived), but this film provides that perfect balance, recognising that, rather than portraying Merrick as an all-around extraordinary person, a portrayal of a real human individual, who has been born with such horrendous deformities, yet attempts to be seen as equal in a time of extreme prejudice, is more suitable for developing that emotional connection with an audience, as Merrick's humanity is heavily emphasised, being more identifiable.