About

A Victorian surgeon rescues a heavily disfigured man being mistreated by his "owner" as a side-show freak. Behind his monstrous façade, there is revealed a person of great intelligence and sensitivity. Based on the true story of Joseph Merrick (called John Merrick in the film), a severely deformed man in 19th century London.

8.2
5,263
Directed by

David Lynch

Written by

David Lynch (Screenplay)
Eric Bergren (Screenplay)
Christopher De Vore (Screenplay)

Runtime

124 minutes

Country

United States of America, United Kingdom

Language

English

Tagline

I am not an animal! I am a human being! I … am … a man!

Cast

Keywords

biography hospital sideshow based on a true story 19th century exploitation disfigurement dignity curiosity physical deformity freak

Photos

Lists

#148 on IMDb top 250 IMDb

#436 on 1,000 greatest films They Shoot Pictures, Don't They?

#362 on Empire's 500 Greatest Movies Of All Time Empire

1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die Steven Jay Schneider

Awards

Oscar nomination for Best Music, Original Score John Morris

Oscar nomination for Best Picture Jonathan Sanger

Oscar nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role John Hurt

Oscar nomination for Best Director David Lynch