Faces, Forms, Films

Book excerpt: This biography offers the vivid story of the artist and man Lon Chaney, Sr. From his beginnings on the stage to the roles that gave him a permanent place in the history of silent films (The Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Phantom of the Opera) to his entry into talkies. Chaney used all of his experience on screen and off, to bring as much humanity and realism as possible to his portrayals. As his own make-up artist, he strove for a perfection that could pass the critical scrutiny of the camera eye. This is the portrait of a creative actor, who used all his skill and craftsmanship to bring memorable people to life on the silver screen.