Starring John Hurt, Anthony Hopkins and AFI Directing Workshop for Women Alum Anne Bancroft, THE ELEPHANT MAN (1980) tells the remarkable and tragic true story John Merrick – behind whose unusual appearance was a soul defined by intelligence and kindness. Financed by AFI Life Achievement Award honoree Mel Brooks’ production company and directed by AFI Alum – and Franklin J. Schaffner Alumni Medal honoree – David Lynch (AFI Class of 1970), this empathetic masterpiece was edited by AFI Honorary Degree recipient Anne V. Coates.
Visit the AFI Catalog to learn more about THE ELEPHANT MAN.