Freaks (1932)

"Freaks" - A Masterpiece
The first I heard of this movie was from Stephen King's book "Danse Macabre" some years ago. After too long a time, I finally watched it.

I was stunned. This is one of the best movies I have ever seen. The writing, scenes, characters, and plot are mind-blowing. Even my 14 year old step-son was enamored with the film. It was brilliant.

The characters were charming, humorous, cold, loving, etc.

What really hit me was the fact that the movie was not accepted by society and that it was concidered the most 'horrific' movie at the time, which led to it being pulled from the few screens it was playing on. Three decades later - yes, thirty YEARS - the 'freak-out' phase in American society rediscovered the film and it had some success as an underground film.

Amazingly, it wasn't until 1994 that the National Film Registry put the film in its archive of cinematic treasures. That's 62 years. A lot of people lived and died durring those years. That is a long time to gain recognition.

This gives me hope, however. Just because something isn't appreciated now, doesn't mean it won't be so later. It is an astounding film that people in the 1930's simply didn't understand.

After all, who is a freak? What defines one? Is it wrong to look at someone who isn't "average" or "normal" in a different light?

I would urge anyone who likes good story-telling to see this movie - and the insightful featurette/documentary FREAKS: SIDESHOW CINEMA.

Simply amazing stuff.

Freaks Are People Too
Freaks is a terrific thriller and a true classic in every sense of the word. It was too bad that they had to eliminate 30 minutes of the original movie before it was released. This is a must-see and I enjoy it more every time I watch it. Behold the wrath of the mighty midget!!!

Great Cult Classic!
This movie was recommended by a friend and at first, I did not know if I wanted to see it. It is incredible. For a movie made in the 1930's, it is incredible. It pushes the envelope for today's standards so I can only imagine the stir it created when it was made. It is a great movie. You have got to see it to believe it.