A Century of Horror

1920s

The Phantom of the Opera

1925—Dir. by Rupert Julian (and others)

Despite 100 years of remake attempts, absolutely nothing has come anywhere near the lurid power of Universal’s silent original crack at the story. Shockingly brisk and modern for a silent film, the color sequence is an absolute jaw dropper and the catacombs are one of cinema’s great locations. Also this is the only adaptation that even tries to keep the Phantom looking like he does in the book.

The Monster

1925—Dir. by Roland West

A really fun "Lunatics running the asylum" early early Old Dark House movie (hell, it predates the movie that coined the term). Watch as Lon Chaney tries to discover the secret of life by shoving a dude's soul into a lady. Catch his cool-ass goons that he has running around the asylum.

A hoot of an early horror-comedy with atmosphere to spare.

Also Recommended

The Fall of the House of Usher, The Unknown, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, The Hands of Orlac, Haxan, Nosferatu, The Golem, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.