a film everyone should see

Rating: 9/10 (8 December 2003)

The Elephant Man is one of those rare movies which gives one insight into the human condition, at its ugliest and most beautiful. In a way it reminds me of The Miracle Worker in that these true stories (albeit fictionally embellished, both are accurate) demonstrate the incredible tenacity of the human spirit: both John (Joseph) Merrick and Helen Keller overcame insurmountable obstacles to be recognized as "normal" humans despite profound disabilities.
From Wendy Hiller and Anne Bancroft in smaller roles to Anthony Hopkins and John Hurt in the major ones, everyone is perfect in this incredible movie. Although I'm not not a big fan of David Lynch this is one of his best, if not his best, movies. John Hurt is amazing; one cannot help being repelled by his appearance, but before long you see beyond the physical into the beautiful, refined human inside.
Anyone who can watch this film and not be moved to tears at least once may be in need of emotional counseling. It touches on so many levels it's hard not to be affected at some point. Unless you're a Pod Person...