The film follows John Merrick's life in a relatively faithful way from the time that Sir Frederick Treves finds him working in a Victorian freak show. After he takes him to the hospital, Treves discovers that behind 'The Elephant Man', there is a human being that deserves to live with the same dignity as any other man. John Merrick's efforts for having a normal life, his struggle to adapt to society and Treves' doubts on his intentions are the core story of David Lynch's film.
The beautiful black and white tone mixed with the sad and sinister dark lighting gives the film a gentle horrifying and, yet at the same time, calm mood.
With this film, David Lynch grasps his viewers and stretches them to a new parallel of an emotionally capturing film in showing John Merrick beaten, abused, harassed, humiliated, and tormented. Treves somewhat saves Merrick from those who persecute him for being a freak, for being a monster. One powerful scene of tension and curiosity, Merrick screams out, 'I am not an animal! I am a human being! I am a man!' This scene is incredible and it ties in with the whole focus of the film itself, emotion and human dignity.
The final scene of the film finds Merrick committing an act of lying on his back to sleep, which he is aware will kill him. After examining a painting of a small girl lying flat, he imitates her in a final attempt to be 'normal,' resulting in his implied death. He drifts off to sleep as the words of his deceased mother ring out in his head. 'Nothing will die.'
"The Elephant Man" is a great film. It is sad and depressing, yet it is brilliant and very moving. It makes you cry for John Merrick, not just for pity but for sympathy. It makes you realize that we are all human, despite our disadvantages. It also makes you realize that one man knows that despite his condition, he knows he's all right.
Lizzy =)
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