Huston will direct a biopic centered on Joseph Merrick, famously known as The Elephant Man. Lynch's powerful 1980 film about Merrick left an indelible mark on cinematic history, but Huston promises to take a distinctly different approach.
Joseph Merrick was a man with severe deformities living in 19th-century London. He was subjected to exploitation as a sideshow attraction until he was taken in by the compassionate Dr. Frederic Treves. Lynch’s adaptation, shot in black and white, deeply examined themes of human dignity, compassion, and the cruelty of society. The character’s story originally emerged from a 1977 Broadway play by Bernard Pomerance, which led to the film's critical and commercial acclaim, garnering eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.
Huston made his directorial debut with Day of the Fight, starring Michael Pitt as a once-celebrated boxer grappling with personal demons. Premiering in the Orizzonti section of the 80th Film Festival, the film had a minimal release but deserves recognition on any list of 2024’s hidden gems. Having shot Day of the Fight in black and white raises the question of whether Huston will opt for a similar aesthetic in his Merrick biopic. However, it would be wise for him to distance himself from Lynch’s legacy, allowing his vision to shine through without the shadow of a classic hanging over it.
Before embracing directing, Huston built a successful acting career with roles in Boardwalk Empire, American Hustle, and The Longest Ride. He comes from the esteemed Huston family, with his grandfather John Huston as a legendary director and his aunt, Anjelica Huston, a celebrated actress. As Huston embarks on this ambitious project, anticipation mounts for his unique portrayal of Merrick’s extraordinary life.
