The Elephant Man

Nominated for eight Oscars (and winning none), David Lynch's extraordinary 1980 film, based on the true story of Joseph Merrick, a Victorian Englishman who suffered from a rare disease that left his body hideously deformed, features an outstanding performance by John Hurt playing the title character under heavy makeup. A carnival sideshow attraction for much of his life, Merrick is rescued from the cruel treatment of his owner, and placed in a hospital for observation under the eye of Dr. Frederick Treves (Anthony Hopkins), a basically good man who, nevertheless, is keenly aware of the fact that his reputation can be made with Merrick's case. As Merrick moves up through Victorian society, he is literally transformed before the viewer's eye, as the charming, humorous, newly self-assured character within begins to transcend the grotesque figure without. Freddie Francis' atmospheric black and white cinematography is sharply rendered on this beautifully mastered DVD, which is backed with a full-bodied new Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack. Extras include an interview with make-up artist Christopher Tucker, and a wonderful retrospective documentary "The Elephant Man Revealed," with uncredited producer Mel Brooks, Hurt, and Francis. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (R. Pitman)