The Elephant Man (1980)

Lynch’s humanity bleeds into every frame of his sophomore project. Without his surreal trappings, he reveals himself to be a deeply caring artist – somebody who sees beauty in the hardships of everyday people. Arguably, this is the most beautiful film he has created and definitely one of the most beautiful films I’ve ever seen. It explores the thin line between helping others and helping yourself; how we see other people as reflections of ourselves; the stage, the circus, the film... the little worlds we build and inhabit. What is a good man? Can we be truly selfless? 

I had to frequently remind myself this film was made in the ‘80s, not the late 1800s it’s depicting. John Hurt and Anthony Hopkins deliver unreal performances throughout and the set design, costumes and make-up gave the entire movie an atmosphere of being from a time long ago. This only added to the film’s unique ambiance, submerging the viewer in the sometimes cruel, exploitative world of Victorian London, making the film all the more influential. The beautiful black-and-white cinematography and phenomenal sound design make the film unlike anything else, and it includes maybe the best use of Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” I have ever experienced. 

This film reduces viewers down to their feelings, leaving them unable to speak. Words elude, but you know exactly how you feel – a film at its peak power. During the most emotional scenes, I found myself having to look away, if anything, just to breathe.

Extremely difficult to watch at times, but absolutely essential. A beautiful portrayal of an exceptionally kind and thoughtful human being: “I am happy every hour of the day. My life is full because I know that I am loved” is a quote that will stay with me forever. Lynch was truly a one-of-a-kind filmmaker. 

Somebody who sees beauty in the hardships of  everyday people.