initiated by anil on September 07, 2008 (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0452781/)
Now regarded as a classic after many years of being reviled, Tod Brownings' "Freaks" is given good documentary treatment. Film historian and author David Skal, who really knows his stuff about the horror films of the era, is just one of several amiable and informative interviewees. Real-life sideshow performers Johnny Meah, Todd Robbins, and Jennifer Miller (Ms. Miller being a real-life bearded la more
Now regarded as a classic after many years of being reviled, Tod Brownings' "Freaks" is given good documentary treatment. Film historian and author David Skal, who really knows his stuff about the horror films of the era, is just one of several amiable and informative interviewees. Real-life sideshow performers Johnny Meah, Todd Robbins, and Jennifer Miller (Ms. Miller being a real-life bearded lady) offer their own thoughts on their business, and Meah and Robbins provide their own compelling insight to and knowledge of the film.Running just a little longer than the actual film, this documentary covers the appropriate bases such as the genesis of the project, the casting, the production, the aftermath of the films' release, and its subsequent re-discovery. Meah and midget actor Jerry Maren also talk about actually meeting and working with some of the films' cast. In a nice touch, many of the freaks cast in the film get a brief summary of their lives and careers.Although the film and subject are worthy of even more discussion than what the documentary provides, there's still enough good information to go around here. It moves along quite well and is never less than absorbing. It's a good primer on the subject of sideshow attractions and a good companion piece to the film. It's definitely worth watching for fans.8/10
