The Man Who Laughs (1928)

"Hugely influential silent classic"

Eureka are releasing Paul Leni's original version (there have been a couple of forgettable remakes) of Victor Hugo's novel in a 4K restoration from Universal. 

England in the 17th century. After his father refuses to kiss the hand of King James he is executed and Gwynplaine (Conrad Veidt of CALIGARI and CASABLANCA fame) has his face mutilated so that it is fixed in a permanent rictus grin. He ends up performing in a carnival sideshow. His only friend is Dea (Mary Philbin - Christine in Rupert Julian's 1925 PHANTOM OF THE OPERA with Lon Chaney). But Gwynplaine is in line for the throne and soon he finds himself having to choose between a life of royalty and a life with Dea.

Frequently cited as inspiring the look of the Batman's the Joker, and likely also  an influence on Ray Russell's novel Sardonicus and the look of Guy Rolfe's character in William Castle's 1961 movie adaptation, Paul Leni's film is the first and best version of the tale. With its scenes of swordplay and overlying feel of tragedy and doomed romance THE MAN WHO LAUGHS is an epic horror film-cum fairy tale.

Universal's 4K restoration looks marvellous and the transfer is in the original 1:2 aspect ratio. There are two score options - the original 1928 movietone in mono and a 2.0 stereo score by the Berklee School of Music. There's also a featurette on the making of the film, a newly recorded Kim Newman interview and a new video essay by David Cairns and Fiona Watson. 

The first print run comes with a limited edition 'O' card slipcase and the package also includes a booklet with new writing on the film from Travis Crawford and Richard Combs.

Paul Leni's THE MAN WHO LAUGHS is out on Blu-ray from Eureka on Monday 17th August 2020