In Tod Browning’s Freaks (1932) and Harry L. Fraser’s Chained for Life (1951), we see the “abled-bodies” planning and plotting against the “disabled bodies” for the most part. It is only later that the characters with disability take upon themselves to seek revenge from characters without disability. Like Cleopatra, Ander shows Machiavellian characteristics since the very beginning of the movie. He is seen plotting against the Siamese twins—Vivian and Dorothy—throughout the film. Initially, we as audience are fooled into believing that Andre is a genuine and kind-hearted man but soon we realize how he is putting a mask to hide his true self which is heinous and atrocious. There are many instances in the movie that show us Andre’s villainous side. One instance is when he comes home he tells Renee, his beautiful assistant and beloved that he has started collecting money (given by Dorothy) for their future. When Renee complains about his misdeeds, he says, “Charm is the word Renee, Charm!” He tries to cover his negative traits by euphemism.
Another incident is when he is seen talking to Renee. He believes that a true artist must give every performance whole-heartedly. He holds true to this statement as he makes Dorothy believe that his love is genuine and pure. His greed reflects in his eyes when he is seen boasting in front of his friends about the 5 carat engagement ring. His hope to make quick money is reflected in his remark “Andre and Renee in the second spot [in the new building].” He also adds that they will soon make the headlines. His utter ruthless and narcissistic personality comes out in full swing when he gets married to Dorothy. In the newspaper, the headlines are occupied by the topic of the betrayal of the Siamese twin: “Couldn’t Go Thru with Marriage to Siamese Bride….Says Pariseau.”
Hinckley, Andre & McKenzie with the conjoined twins
Not only Andre but also other characters in the film exploit the conjoined twins. McKenzie and Hinckley use the sisters to make profit. They believe that if they do the publicity stunt, money will start pouring into their pockets. On the theatre’s board, the name of—HAMILTON SISTERS—which has the tag Siamese Twins right underneath is placed on the top and has the biggest font size among other names. This shows how manipulatively McKenzie and Hinckley use the sisters’ name to become successful in show business.
Bodies of Film Project 