Unmasking "Freaks": Two Very Different Cinematic Worlds
The term "Freaks" in cinema holds weight. It evokes unsettling, intriguing images. It challenges societal norms and the idea of 'normal.' We will explore "Freaks," not one, but two films. One is the 1932 classic that broke boundaries. The other is the 2018 thriller that redefines it for today's audience.
Unraveling the Stories: Plotting the 'Freaks' Movies
Let’s untangle the narratives. Two films, two distinct tales, both burdened by that word: "Freaks".
The 2018 "Freaks" Movie: A Modern Take on Outcasts
The 2018 film, simply called "Freaks," relocates us to a modern suburb. Imagine being locked indoors, told that the outside world is a death trap, inhabited by monsters. This is Chloe’s existence. Her father, Henry, enforces strict rules. He warns her that going outside means death. Is it paranoia or something stranger?
Chloe isn't a helpless victim. She's curious and desires the normal life of her neighbors, the Reeds. But her escape reveals a bizarre world. 'Freaks' are more than oddities; they have powers, hunted and feared. It’s like X-Men meets suburban thriller, laced with conspiracy.
As Chloe steps into this strange reality, she discovers she has powers too. She's telepathic, a 'freak.' Her journey involves uncovering her abilities, family secrets, and the sinister 'Abnormal Defense Force' (ADF) that hunts people like her.
The 1932 "Freaks" Movie: Betrayal and Revenge
Now, let’s rewind to 1932. This "Freaks" presents another reality. Set in a traveling circus, it explores the lives of those with physical differences. These are not actors; these are real people termed "sideshow freaks." This distinction adds to the film’s impact and controversy.
The plot revolves around Cleopatra, a trapeze artist, and Hans, a little person with wealth. Cleopatra pretends to love Hans for his fortune. Her plan? Marry him and run off with Hercules, a strongman. It sounds like classic film noir, with a circus twist.
Chloe's Confinement: The Mystery Unraveled
Returning to 2018's "Freaks," we ponder Chloe’s confinement. Henry paints a grim picture of the outside world, filled with danger for anyone ‘abnormal.’ He instills fear of 'normal' people in Chloe, claiming they will harm her if she ventures outside. It's a prison built on fear. But is it logical?
Initially, we view it through Chloe’s innocent eyes. As the film progresses, we learn that Henry is not merely paranoid; he aims to protect her from the ADF, a dark government agency targeting 'abnormals.' His isolation serves to shield her from a world hostile to difference—a reflection of real-world prejudice magnified by supernatural elements.
At the Core: Identity and Courage Beyond Difference
At its heart, the 2018 "Freaks" concerns discovery. Chloe’s journey reflects truth-finding – about powers, family, and the world outside. It’s about breaking free from imposed narratives: her father's protective lies and society’s fearful discourse on 'freaks.' It is coming-of-age draped in sci-fi thriller themes about identity and courage to embrace one’s true self.
Meet the 'Freaks': Characters in the 2018 Film
Let’s dive into 2018’s characters, the 'freaks,' to understand their uniqueness.
Chloe Lewis: The Telepathic Protagonist
Chloe, portrayed by Lexy Kolker, is seven, curious, and confined to home. But she possesses telepathy. Her mind acts like a radio antenna. She absorbs thoughts and emotions, and even images. This power serves as both gift and curse, isolating her yet linking her overall.
Chloe’s telepathy extends beyond traditional mind-reading; she visualizes people she thinks of—summoning ghostly images of them. This is how she first sees her mother, Mary—a mysterious figure hidden in a closet.
Henry Lewis: The Time-Bending Father
Henry, played by Emile Hirsch, is Chloe’s protector and father, wielding a power of time manipulation. He can slow down time around him. This ability justifies their prolonged isolation, where seven years feel like mere months outside.
But this control exacts a toll. Henry visibly strains under the effort; his eyes bleed with use—signaling danger to the ADF. It’s both an incredible and destructive power that shows the burden of difference in a hostile environment.
Hints suggest Henry's profession is architecture; tools in his office imply structure and planning—reflecting his aim to manipulate time to craft their own reality.
Mary Lewis: The Flying Mother with Mind Control
Chloe’s mother, Mary, initially appears as an enigma. But she too holds power: flight and mind control. The mind control aspect intrigues deeply. It's hinted she can influence meteor-infected individuals, adding layers to the “Freaks” mythos.
Chloe's visions of Mary don't stem from mere imagination; they are clairvoyant insights, linked by Chloe’s telepathy—revealing their strong familial bond across distance.
Alan/Mr. Snowcone: The Invisible Grandfather
Alan, known as Mr. Snowcone, is an ice cream truck driver with hidden secrets; he is Chloe's grandfather who can turn invisible. This invisibility serves as a metaphor for his concealed role in her life.
Mr. Snowcone isn’t evil; his intentions stem from believing his daughter Mary is alive and ultimately uses Chloe to uncover the truth. He encourages her exploration of powers and aids in understanding her world—a flawed but helpful figure.
The ADF: Enforcers of Fear
The ADF serves as antagonists—embodying institutional fear and prejudice against ‘abnormals.’ Their mission—eradicating those labeled as ‘freaks’—demonstrates societal rejection of anything extraordinary.
Decoding "Freaks": Themes and Interpretations
The films delve into broader themes beyond surface narratives.
"Freaks" (2018) has a thrilling plot and rich themes. The film explores what it means to be different and feared. It also focuses on the struggle for acceptance in a world that seeks to erase individuality.
The Point of "Freaks": Unveiling Truth and Embracing Difference
The movie centers on Chloe's journey of discovery. She uncovers layers of deception to find the truth about her powers and her family. Her father guides her cautiously. Mr. Snowcone intervenes more directly. This messy journey ultimately leads to her empowerment.
The Message of "Freaks": Humanity Beyond "Normal"
"Freaks" as a Metaphor: Beyond the Literal
The film mirrors reality through its sci-fi lens. Using superpowers serves as a metaphor for real-life experiences of being different. Feelings of persecution resonate deeply, whether due to race, religion, or orientation. The persecution faced in the film reflects societal discrimination, making it a powerful allegory for acceptance and prejudice.
The 1932 "Freaks": Controversy, Banning, and Unsettling Content
Now, let's examine the 1932 "Freaks." It sparked significant controversy and became a cultural lightning rod.
Why the Ban? "Brutal and Grotesque" in Its Time
The 1932 version faced a ban in the UK for over thirty years. Canada called it "brutal and grotesque." The outrage was not only due to the plot but also the cast.
Unsettling Content: Real People, Real Differences
The use of real individuals with disabilities as 'freaks' stirred controversy. At that time, many such individuals hid away or ended up in sideshows. Presenting them as leads in a film was deeply unsettling for many viewers, merging entertainment with reality.
Deformities on Display: A Groundbreaking and Disturbing Choice
Using real deformities was groundbreaking yet controversial. It offered visibility to marginalized groups, humanizing them in media. However, critics accused the film of exploitation and sensationalizing disability for shock value. This debate remains relevant today.
The 1932 "Freaks": Rooted in Reality, Born from Fiction
The narrative of "Freaks" is fictional, but it reveals real-life experiences. It drew inspiration from circus sideshow performers.
Circus Sideshow Inspiration: Drawing from Real Lives
The film is inspired by many circus performers, not a single true story. Numerous actors were actual sideshow performers. This blend of fiction and reality gives the story emotional weight, making it authentic.
Director Tod Browning: A Personal Connection to the Sideshow
Director Tod Browning had circus experience before filmmaking. His background shaped his approach to "Freaks." He depicted the culture and challenges within these communities convincingly.
Fictionalized Plot: Cleopatra, Hans, and the Revenge Narrative
Even with real-life inspirations, the story involving Cleopatra and Hans is fictionalized. It's a dramatic narrative built around authentic experiences, merging realism with storytelling.
Sequel Speculation: Will "Freaks" (2018) Get a Second Chapter?
Fans of "Freaks" wonder about a potential sequel.
Sequel in the Works? Rumors and Potential Future
Rumors suggest a sequel may happen. Filming might start in March 2025 in Vancouver. The original writers and directors Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein are expected to return. Nothing is confirmed yet, but Chloe's world may be revisited.
Lexy Kolker: The Young Star of "Freaks" (2018)
Lexy Kolker played Chloe in "Freaks." Her performance was vital to the film's success.
The Face of Chloe: Lexy Kolker's Breakthrough Role
Alexa Rose Kolker, born in 2009, enchants audiences as Chloe. Her work earned accolades, including a Young Artist Award. She brilliantly captured the character's vulnerability and power.
Age of Innocence and Talent: Lexy Kolker During Filming
Filming began when Lexy was seven. She turned eight shortly before the premiere. Her ability to convey complex emotions at a young age showcased her remarkable talent and professionalism.
The Original Ending of "Freaks" (1932): A Lost, Gruesome Climax
The ending we see today is not what was originally planned for the 1932 film. Studio edits removed a disturbing finale.
What Was Cut? Castration and Transformation
The original ending was graphic and unsettling. It depicted gruesome revenge from the 'freaks.' Hercules was castrated and sang in falsetto. Cleopatra’s fate was even grimmer: tarred, feathered, and transformed into a "chicken woman."
Cleopatra's Fate: From Trapeze Artist to "Chicken Woman"
Cleopatra fell from glamorous trapeze artist to humiliated spectacle. This ending emphasized themes of revenge and betrayal with intense force but was deemed too extreme for its time.
Mutilation and Mayhem: Too Graphic for the Era
Castration scenes were graphic for 1930 audiences, leading to cuts. These losses diluted the film's impact, resulting in a chilling yet less extreme final version.
Is "Freaks" Worth Watching? A Timeless Question, Enduring Relevance
The ultimate question remains: are either "Freaks" movies worth viewing? Absolutely, for varied reasons.
A Resounding Yes: Empathy, Artistry, and Lasting Impact
The 2018 "Freaks" serves as a thought-provoking thriller. It blends superhero elements with rich social commentary. The film invites reflection on biases concerning difference.
The 1932 version, despite its controversies, is an astounding film. Its significant history, genuine portrayals, and empathy towards marginalized communities mark it as a cinematic milestone.
Both films create valuable cinematic experiences. They challenge us to question definitions of "normal," societal prejudices, and recognize shared humanity. They inspire conversations about our world through the lens of cinema.
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