Watch the women...

Rating: 9/10 (29 August 1999)

The Elephant Man is simply one of the most beautiful films ever made. I dont normally make such generalizations, but I have seen this film more than I have seen Star Wars and it moves me to emotion every time. The most important thing that I have found about this film is its portrayal of the women in the life of John Merrick. Lynch is often portrayed as a misogynist in the media and I really believe that one can gain a different perspective on his view toward women by interpreting his female characters through this film. Only the women in the film empathize with Merrick, they are the only ones that can truly understand him and love him. The scene where Mrs. Treves breaks down after Merrick tells her about his own mother is simply beautiful. You can read it all in her eyes, as she thinks about her own children and feels genuine empathy and love for Merrick. Bancroft's reaction is also without judgment and is purely love, as is the nurse (even though she may have disdained him at first). I beleive that this film gives one a deep insight into the female characters in Lynch's other productions and is necessary viewing before any attempt to understand his art can begin.