Making The Elephant Man

<p> The true story of John (Joseph) Merrick--a.k.a. the Elephant Man--has captured the imagination of generations of audiences critics actors and filmmakers. In 1978 producer Jonathan Sanger received a screenplay from two unknown writers about a hideously disfigured man who refused to fall victim to despair and instead exemplified human dignity. Reading it (twice) Sanger was determined that Merrick's story would be told.</p><p> This book is Sanger's unvarnished first-person account of how <I>The Elephant Man</I> (1980) was made. His adventure in filmmaking--itself a study in triumph over despair--involved special effects nightmares scheduling conflicts location issues and many risky decisions. Assembling a team that included Mel Brooks (executive producer) David Lynch (director) and actors John Hurt and Anthony Hopkins Sanger persevered in making this inspiring award-winning film.</p>