4 Horror Gems from the silient era plus an original documentary. This includes an all new restoration of THE CAT AND THE CANARY and for the first time on DVD, Bret Wood's KINGDOM OF SHADOWS.
Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde Director: J. S. Robertson
Country: U.S.
Year: 1920
This first great American horror film follows the transformation of a prominent London physician, Dr. Jekyll, into the murderous Mr. Hyde while he explores the dual nature of man. U.S. 1920. 84 min. B&W/tinted.
The Penalty Director: Wallace Worsley
Country: U.S.
Year: 1920
In one of his most diabolical roles, Lon Chaney stars as a criminal mastermind who carries out a gruesome vengeance upon the doctor who amputated his legs.
The Cat and the Canary Director: Paul Leni
Country: U.S.
Year: 1927
A decaying mansion and a stormy night are the archetypal setting for mystery and chaos when a pack of greedy relatives gather for the reading of a twenty-year-old will. But before the West fortune can be handed down, the family must endure a night in the cavernous manor. THE CAT is a milestone of the American horror film, thanks to the ingenuity of its director, Paul Leni. One of the first film artists imported from Germany by Hollywood, Leni invigorated this stage-bound genre with expressionist flair, transforming conventional material into a visual feast. Meticulously restored from original nitrate prints by Photoplay productions and a new score by Neil Brand.
The Man Who Laughs Director: Paul Leni
Country: U.S.
Year: 1928
Paul Leni's adaptation of Victor Hugo's classic novel tells the story of Gwynplaine (Conrad Veidt), a tortured man with a permanent smile carved on his face. Batman creator Bob Kane has cited Leni's film as inspiration for his classic villain The Joker.
Kingdom of Shadows Director: Bret Wood
Country: U.S.
Year: 1998
The horror film, from the turn of the century to the end of the silent era, is explored in this haunting, sometimes shocking documentary...a
danse macabre of religion, carnivals, sex, nightmares, monstrosity, and death. With scenes from 50 rare and classic films.
