The Man Who Laughs
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1928, dir Paul Leni w/Conrad Veidt, Mary Philbin, Brandon Hurst, Olga Vladimirovna Baklanova, Cesare Gravina, 110 min, DCP
Whether or not you’re excited for Joaquin Phoenix’s turn as Batman’s arch-enemy, The Joker, you’ll be thrilled by this expressionistic silent film that features the prototype for the famous comic book nemesis. When his father is executed and his face is carved with a permanent smile by the cruel King James II, 17th century youth Gwynplaine (Veidt) survives as the main attraction of a traveling carnival. Later in life, as he struggles with his disfigurement and his love for the beautiful, blind Dea (Philbin), his true lineage is discovered and he must fight to regain his future.
“THE MAN WHO LAUGHS is a melodrama, at times even a swashbuckler, but so steeped in Expressionist gloom that it plays like a horror film." – Roger Ebert
Tonight’s screening will be accompanied by a live score from local silent film expert Jeff Rapsis!
Brattle member passes will be accepted
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