← Back to explore

The Elephant Man

1980 · Movie · PG · 124 min · ★ 8.0

DramaHistory

A Victorian surgeon rescues a heavily disfigured man being mistreated by his "owner" as a side-show freak. Behind his monstrous façade, there is revealed a person of great intelligence and sensitivity. Based on the true story of Joseph Merrick (called John Merrick in the film), a severely deformed man in 19th century London.

Also known as L'homme éléphant

IMDb

Where to watch

Not currently available to stream in the US.

2 hours to watch.

Not currently available to stream, rent, or buy in the US.

Streaming availability and prices may be inaccurate or change — verify with the provider before subscribing.

unSUB's subscription recommendations are informational only, not financial advice.

More value for your money

Similar titles, ranked by watch-hours per subscription dollar.

Details
Years
1980
Release date
1980-10-09
Language
English
Rated
PG
Runtime
124 min
TMDB rating
8.0/10 (3,936 votes)
Box office
$26,010,864
Budget
$5,000,000

Themes

  • friendship
  • london, england
  • escape
  • nurse
  • exploitation
  • biography
  • based on true story
  • tragedy
  • hospital
  • black and white
  • period drama
  • social injustice
  • +28 more

Awards & recognition

  • César Award — Best Foreign Film
  • National Board of Review: Top Ten Films
  • Academy Award — Best Actor · 1981 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Production Design · 1981 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Picture · 1981 · nominated
Show all 10 awards →
  • Academy Award — Best Film Editing · 1981 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Director · 1981 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay · 1981 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Original Score · 1981 · nominated
  • Academy Award — Best Costume Design · 1981 · nominated

Cast & crew

Directed by David Lynch