During the filming of Freaks, how was the cast treated on the MGM lot?
David: Badly. There were objections to the sideshow folk eating in the studio commissary and they had to have their lunch separately, outdoors and away from sight. MP: Browning directed several films that dealt with carnivals or circuses. What was his fascination with circus performers? David: He grew up working in carnivals and sideshows, and it seems to have influenced his whole view of the world. MP: Speaking of “Freaks”, you contributed to the bonus documentary on the “Freaks” DVD. How did that come about? David: Warner Home Video just called me and asked. They had read “Dark Carnival.” MP: As Browning directed some of the greatest classic Hollywood horror films including “Dracula” and “Freaks”, what was his general reputation in Hollywood? David: He was one of the highest paid directors in Hollywood during the 1920s. But after the disaster of “Freaks” his career began its decline. MP: Did the studios shun him because of his work with edgy themes? David: They shunned him because hi
