One of the things I find so fascinating about this film is the readiness of mainstream critics to proclaim it as politically correct. Filmed in 1932 using real "human oddities," Freaks is usually said to champion the cause of those who are different. As the box cover reads, "...the film soon reveals that the normal members of the traveling carnival are the true monsters; pitiless, conniving and murderous!"

Yes, it's true that within the context of the story the sideshow folks are the good guys and the so-called normal people are the villains. This, however, is a movie best known for shocking people, and it accomplishes that not by showing what monsters ordinary people can be, but by displaying seriously deformed human beings. The audience watches in fascination and revulsion as a man with no arms or legs rolls a cigarette and lights it. And there is a twisted appeal to watching the "half- boy" (no legs and a shortened torso) walk around on his hands.

This being a web page dedicated to exploitation films I'm not about to knock a film for showing this sort of stuff, but at least I'm honest enough to acknowledge the film's true nature. The perverse fascination of seeing these so-called freaks is what got people into the theaters back in 1932, and it's why a lot of people watch it today. As a society we are too civilized to permit freak shows anymore, but the readiness of many people to view this film indicates there is a market for them.

I'm not saying this isn't a good movie once you get beyond the exploitation, but the use of deformed people is its main selling point. If the freaks had been represented by makeup and special effects, this film would have been forgotten long ago.

That bit of cynicism aside for the moment, this is an interesting film. The tale takes place in a circus. Hans (Earles) is a midget in the freak show who falls for Cleopatra (Baclanova) the aerialist. Cleopatra treats Hans' affections as no more than a source for some cruel laughs until she finds out that Hans is filthy rich. She and Hercules (Victor) the circus strongman then plot for her to marry and murder Hans for his money.

Much of the story deals with how the freaks have a sub- culture of their own and a strong code of ethics within that group. They take care of their own. The scene in which the sideshow performers take their revenge on Cleopatra and Hercules is quite chilling.

At sixty-five minutes this is a real short movie. I recommend seeing it whether for it's historical interest, because it's a decent horror film, or because of a perverse curiosity. At least be honest with yourself about why you're watching it.