Man Who Laughs, The

Aroview: One of the most spectacular (and sophisticated) of the silent epics adapts a historical story by Victor Hugo concerning the destiny of a disfigured man in Olde England.

Mutilated as a boy by 'camprachicos', so that he constantly wears a ghastly permanent smile, the title character becomes a popular entertainer and comes to the notice of the royal family. Although the slow pace may deter the unwary, this ultra-expensive production is a cinematic landmark and influence on later directors such as James Whale.