Quote:
Originally Posted by Doc Faustus
If you look at Todd Browning's oeuvre and his carnival background and put things into perspective, Freaks doesn't merit guilt. The subjects of the movie are for the most part shown in a warm, loving positive manner.
|
In context, I agree with you completely. And am aware that Browning himself was from a carnival background. But my awareness that the people in the movie actually had disabilities and that this was being used to entertain in a macabre way just doesn't sit well on the conscience of someone who works in a sphere where attitudes to what society does not deem the norm are frequently being challenged.
But that said, Browning does go a long way to portray these people as having a right to the same things as everyone else- love, marriage and friendship. So can see both sides of the coin.
Do you think a film about real people with schizophrenia taking revenge on those who treat them badly could ever be made? Personally I would love it as society is so small minded, but can't see it ever happening. The only remotely justified reaction they would get would be pitty (and no I don't agree with that either) but never would they recieve empathy.
Must stop railroading thread! But interesting to considder the classic stuff within the context of the time it was made