Watch The Man Who Laughs

In the silent film era, The Man Who Laughs from 1928 is widely regarded as one of the most enigmatic horror films of all time. Directed by Paul Leni, the movie captures a tumultuous time in French history, overthrowing the monarchy and giving in to anarchy. The film’s central character is Gwynplaine (Conrad Veidt), a disfigured carnival performer called The Laughing Man due to a permanent, disfigured grin that has been surgically carved into his face.

Initially, the character of Gwynplaine is introduced as an infant in the hands of a nobleman who abandons him after removing his facial features. Gwynplaine later becomes a traveling performer who creates an unsettling effect on the audience because of his ominous appearance. His theatrical companions, Dea (Mary Philbin), and Ursus (Cesare Gravina) are the only people who could care for him, and he becomes a part of their traveling family.

As the story unfolds, Gwynplaine’s fate abruptly changes when he discovers his roots and finds that he is the son of a nobleman. This revelation brings the character of the Duchess Josiana (Olga Baclanova) into his life as a love interest, and he must choose between the possibility of a better life and his loyalty to Dea, who he loves.

The story is captivatingly atmospheric, and the relationship between Gwynplaine and Dea remains the central focus of the film. Veidt, in particular, provides an outstanding performance, creating a character with emotional depth and complexity through his exquisite acting. Mary Philbin as Dea also shines in her dynamic, enjoyable portrayal of the character.

The film features the genius of makeup artist Jack Pierce, who also designed Boris Karloff’s iconic look in Frankenstein, created the prosthetic smile on Veidt's disfigured face. This feature stands out as one of the film’s most iconic images, adding an extra layer of eerie atmosphere that is both disturbing and unforgettable.

The movie's themes also delve into deeper issues such as class conflict, as Gwynplaine's status as an aristocrat forces him to confront his privilege and complicity. Additionally, the film’s expressionistic cinematography artistically portrays the bleak and haunting atmosphere. The sets are magnificently beautiful, creating a dark and romantic tragedy that goes far beyond traditional melodrama.

The Man Who Laughs stands unique in its originality, as no other film shares its curious blend of horror, romance, and social commentary. This masterpiece of silent cinema from 1928 is a must-watch for horror and classic cinema enthusiasts. Despite being almost 100 years old, the film has stood the test of time, remaining both hauntingly beautiful and masterfully performed.

Overall, The Man Who Laughs remains an engaging and unconventional masterpiece, displaying tremendous artistry and creating a haunting atmosphere that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It is the flawless depiction of pain, love, loyalty, sacrifice, and the stark portrayal of the human condition that makes it a classic in every sense of the word. Due to its originality, the film has inspired countless adaptations, and remains a source of inspiration for modern-day horror creators.

The Man Who Laughs is a 1928 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.