I really don't know what to think of this film. Nothing like this could be done today except maybe to be viewed on the dark net.
I think you could be either enthralled or revolted by Freaks. It's such a stand alone production that first-time viewers are usually going to be caught off-guard. In any case, it's hard not to have a visceral reaction one way or the other.
Without going into plot details, a portion of the cast is made up of people with severe disabilities or physical defects. Some clearly have very limited mental capacities but others seem to know exactly what they're doing. I suspect that much of this line-up would have been what you'd see in a 19th century traveling carnival side-show.
I'm not easily offended or shocked but I'm a little uncomfortable with what's going on here. Politically correct doesn't really apply, it's beyond that. As to whether it represents inspired, courageous, avant-garde filmmaking or is an example of vomitous bad taste and ignorance is, I suppose, up to the viewer. But if anyone responds with just a 'meh' I suspect their own tastes and social skills are a bit outside the normal.
I suppose Freaks speaks to our human ambivalence in dealing with things that are bizarre, abnormal or revolting. Most of us can't resist at least taking a glance at a book filled with pictures of those with congenital anomalies. Many feel the same way about photos of victims savaged and mutilated by violence or injury. You're glad it's not you, but then turn to the next page to see the next repellent example.
I can't recommend this film but I wouldn't say no one should watch it. Just be a little prepared for something that might be either fascinating or stomach-churning. The response will be a reflection of yourself.
I think you could be either enthralled or revolted by Freaks. It's such a stand alone production that first-time viewers are usually going to be caught off-guard. In any case, it's hard not to have a visceral reaction one way or the other.
Without going into plot details, a portion of the cast is made up of people with severe disabilities or physical defects. Some clearly have very limited mental capacities but others seem to know exactly what they're doing. I suspect that much of this line-up would have been what you'd see in a 19th century traveling carnival side-show.
I'm not easily offended or shocked but I'm a little uncomfortable with what's going on here. Politically correct doesn't really apply, it's beyond that. As to whether it represents inspired, courageous, avant-garde filmmaking or is an example of vomitous bad taste and ignorance is, I suppose, up to the viewer. But if anyone responds with just a 'meh' I suspect their own tastes and social skills are a bit outside the normal.
I suppose Freaks speaks to our human ambivalence in dealing with things that are bizarre, abnormal or revolting. Most of us can't resist at least taking a glance at a book filled with pictures of those with congenital anomalies. Many feel the same way about photos of victims savaged and mutilated by violence or injury. You're glad it's not you, but then turn to the next page to see the next repellent example.
I can't recommend this film but I wouldn't say no one should watch it. Just be a little prepared for something that might be either fascinating or stomach-churning. The response will be a reflection of yourself.