One of Us

What’s creepier than any CGI-packed modern-day horror flick? The 1932 cult classic Freaks. Director Tod Browning didn’t have to rely on special effects to depict his authentic-looking sideshow. Browning, who once traveled with a carnival himself, cast real “freaks” — microcephalics, midgets, a limbless man and various gender-benders — for an extreme demonstration of the notion that real beauty is on the inside. The Main Branch of the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Library (625 Minnesota, 913-551-3280) screens Freaks at 6:30 p.m. as part of its series devoted to circus films.

Wed., Oct. 1, 6:30 p.m., 2008