“Wouldn’t it be marvelous if two natures in man could be separated – housed in different bodies.”
For this week, a hair-raising double feature is in order. The first handpicked film is the well-known classic, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1920), starring American stage, screen, and radio actor John Barrymore. Directed by John S. Robertson, this one hour and thirty-minute adaption of the 1886 novella, “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” follows scientist, Dr. Henry Jekyll, in his quest to separate man’s dual nature of good and evil. Victorious, he unleashes his murderous, alter ego, Mr. Hyde.
With the backing of great makeup artistry, lighting, and John Barrymore’s superb portrayal of the chilling madman, this silent masterpiece draws its audience deep into Jekyll’s world from beginning to twisted end. Definitely a much watch.
And in honor of one of silent films comedic geniuses, who would have celebrated his 125th on October 4th, I give you Buster Keaton in “The Haunted House” (1921). Directed and written by Keaton and Edward F. Cline, this 27 minute short/comedy is about a bank teller who, after being mistaken as a robber, ends up hiding out in a seemingly haunted house that is actually the hideout for counterfeit thieves.
Filled with silly gags, hilarious antics, and Keaton’s mind-blowing acrobatics, this lighthearted, spooky flick is great fun for all ages and for a few belly laughs. So, break out the your Halloween inspired mug, flick on the tub, and get ready for “shivers down your spine mixed with campy fun”.
Both “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” and “The Haunted House” can been seen on You Tube for free.
Have a great night!
