The love story of a siren, a giant, and a dwarf!|Feb. 12, 1932|United States|62 Min.|Not Rated
Genre: Drama;Horror;Violence(Slasher)
Description: “Freaks” (1932) is a classic film that tells a gripping and unconventional story. The plot revolves around Cleopatra, a cunning trapeze artist, who manipulates Hans, a carnival sideshow performer, after discovering his substantial inheritance. This angers Frieda, Hans’ fiancée. Cleopatra conspires with Hercules, a strongman, to eliminate Hans and claim his wealth. Meanwhile, relationships develop among the sideshow performers, including the Bearded Lady and the Human Skeleton, who welcome a new baby, and Violet, a conjoined twin engaged to the circus owner.
Hans falls for Cleopatra and marries her. At their wedding, Cleopatra poisons his wine but carelessly kisses Hercules, exposing her betrayal. The “freaks” attempt to welcome Cleopatra into their group with a ritual, but she mocks them, revealing her cruelty. Hans, humiliated and poisoned, pretends to reconcile with Cleopatra while secretly planning revenge with his fellow performers.
The film explores themes of betrayal, acceptance, and retribution, making it a timeless piece of cinema. Despite its controversial portrayal of its characters, “Freaks” remains a significant work in film history.
Cast director: Tod Browning
Cast actor: Harry Earles, Olga Baclanova, Daisy Earles, Henry Victor, Wallace Ford, Leila Hyams, Roscoe Ates, Angelo Rossitto, Jerry Austin, Daisy Hilton
Original name: Freaks