“The Elephant Man” is a biographical drama film released in 1980. The movie was directed by David Lynch and stars John Hurt as John Merrick, the titular Elephant Man. The film tells the story of Merrick, a severely disfigured man who is mistreated and exploited by society until he meets a compassionate doctor named Frederick Treves, played by Anthony Hopkins.

The movie is based on the true story of Joseph Merrick, who lived in Victorian-era England and was born with severe physical deformities. He was put on display in a freak show as a young man, but eventually found his way to London where he met Dr. Treves, who helped him to live a more comfortable life.

“The Elephant Man” was a critical and commercial success, earning eight Academy Award nominations and winning three, including Best Actor for John Hurt’s portrayal of Merrick. The film is known for its striking black-and-white cinematography, haunting score, and powerful performances by its cast. It is considered a classic of both biographical cinema and David Lynch’s oeuvre.