Guide Note

Freaks, released in 1932, is horror film about sideshow performers. The film is unique because of director Tod Browning's decision to cast people with actual deformities, instead of using costume and makeup simulations, to play the roles of the "freaks." Browning himself had worked in a traveling circus and wanted the atmosphere of the film to reflect his experiences. The film explores the conflict between outer and inner beauty, with the "freaks" depicted as inherently good while their "normal" counterparts appear evil and manipulative. Reaction to the film was so strong that it was banned in the United Kingdom for 30 years and ultimately ended Browning's career. Since the 1960s, the film has built a sizable cult following. In 1994 the United States National Film Registry selected the film for preservation. Almost half-an-hour of the film is now considered lost.

Fast Facts

1. Directed by: Tod Browning
2. Produced by: Tod Browning & Dwain Esper
3. Starring: Wallace Ford, Leila Hyams and Olga Baclanova
4. Release date: February 20, 1932
5. Nominated in 2005 for the Saturn Award] for Best DVD Classic Film Release
6. Was banned in the United Kingdom for 30 years
7. Prematurely ended Tod Browning's career