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Oct 14th:

 

The Unknown (1927)

Description:

The Unknown is a 1927 silent horror film. It stars Lon Chaney (also known as "The Man of a Thousand Faces" for being the most accomplished actor in early cinema) and Joan Crawford (known for being one of the greatest actresses in classic Hollywood cinema). It was directed by Tod Browning (who also directed Dracula (1931).

 

Alonzo works at a circus with Nanon, the woman he loves. Nanon trusts him because she believes he is armless and less of a threat than the other men who want to touch her. When another man wants to marry Nanon, Alonzo goes to horrible lengths to stop him.

 

Review:

Please watch this movie!

It's hard for some to sit down and watch black and white silent films. I was a bit hesitant as well, but this movie is still as exciting and scary as it would have been in 1927. It's better than most modern movies I see today. The story was interesting and the actors were great.

It's fascinating to watch older films and realize it all started in the 1890s. This film was made in the "Pre-code Hollywood era" meaning it was before 1934 when rules were more strict. That's why they got away with dressing down the main actress.

The pace of this film is excellent. It was like watching a live comic book the way silent films had the text for dialogue. The only problems I had was with the music and not feeling afraid. The music was a bit monotonous at times but it fits well altogether. 

 

I highly recommend watching this. It is one that inspires people and it reminded me why I love movies so much. I also suggest watching Ted Browning's Dracula (1932) if you haven't already seen it. It's worth a watch! I would rewatch both films any day. 

Rating:

9 Arms out of 10

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