One of the most moving films ever made

Rating: Null/10 (30 July 1999)

David Lynch is a visionary artist, who weaves his masterpieces in shades of the surreal and of the terrifying. This statement makes The Elephant Man all the more an amazing work in his body of work. The emotion and warmth generated by this film equal those embodied in such classics as Schindler's List and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Lynch paints the true life story of Joseph "John" Merrick and makes him almost a Christ-Like figure. John Hurt has never been better and Sir Anthony Hopkins' performance as the only man who will help Merrick feel a sense of belonging is greatly underrated. Also, top performances come from the always amazing Anne Bancroft and Sir John Gilgoud. But it is Lynch, whose direction and care this film just as fascinating to watch today as it was 19 years ago.