Freaks (1932)

Kernel Score: 87% · 1,286 ratings · Rated NR

Genres: Drama, Horror

Released: 1932-01-01

Runtime: 64 minutes

Where to watch Freaks

  • Stream: YouTube TV, TCM, HBO Max, Bloodstream
  • Free with ads: FlixHouse, Darkroom, Fawesome, Bloodstream
  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

A circus' beautiful trapeze artist agrees to marry the leader of side-show performers, but his deformed friends discover she is only marrying him for his inheritance.

Freaks parents' guide: ages 11+

Parents need to know that Freaks is a 1932 pre-Code horror drama about circus sideshow performers, involving betrayal, attempted murder, and disturbing imagery for its era.

  • Violence & scariness: Moderate — Includes attempted murder and revenge themes culminating in disturbing, unsettling imagery.
  • Sex, romance & nudity: A little — Includes infidelity and a manipulative romance/marriage-for-money plot.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official NR rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like Freaks

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Director

Tod Browning

Cast

  • Harry Earles as Hans
  • Olga Baclanova as Cleopatra
  • Daisy Earles as Frieda
  • Henry Victor as Hercules
  • Wallace Ford as Phroso
  • Leila Hyams as Venus
  • Roscoe Ates as Roscoe
  • Angelo Rossitto as Angeleno
  • Jerry Austin as Knife-Throwing Dwarf (uncredited)
  • Daisy Hilton as Siamese Twin

Freaks FAQ

Is Freaks good?

Freaks has an 87% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 1,286 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Freaks?

In the US you can stream Freaks on YouTube TV, TCM, HBO Max and Bloodstream, watch it free with ads on FlixHouse, Darkroom, Fawesome and Bloodstream and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Freaks OK for kids?

Freaks is rated NR. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Freaks is a 1932 pre-Code horror drama about circus sideshow performers, involving betrayal, attempted murder, and disturbing imagery for its era.

What movies are like Freaks?

If you liked Freaks, try Santa Sangre, Nightmare Alley, Mask and Limelight.