Lon Chaney: A thousand faces Poster

Lon Chaney: A thousand faces 2000

★ 6.512 votes85 min📅 2000-10-24

Dive into the extraordinary life of Lon Chaney, the silent-era master of transformation whose name became synonymous with cinematic horror and makeup artistry, in *Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces* (2000).

Director: Kevin Brownlow

Cast

Kenneth Branagh
Kenneth Branagh
Self / Narrator
Forrest J. Ackerman
Forrest J. Ackerman
Self
Michael F. Blake
Self
Ray Bradbury
Ray Bradbury
Self
Lon Chaney Jr.
Lon Chaney Jr.
Self (archive footage)
Lon Chaney
Lon Chaney
Self (archive footage)
Ron Chaney
Self
Jackie Coogan
Jackie Coogan
Self (archive footage)
Arthur Gardner
Arthur Gardner
Self
Mary Hunt
Self

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces (2000) about?

*Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces* explores the life and career of Lon Chaney, the silent film icon celebrated for his transformative makeup and chilling performances in horror classics. The documentary delves into his creative process, personal struggles, and the lasting impact he had on both cinema and the horror genre.

Who directed Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces?

The documentary was directed by Kevin Brownlow, a renowned film historian and documentary filmmaker known for his deep expertise in silent cinema and classic Hollywood.

Who stars in Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces?

The film features interviews with Kenneth Branagh, Ray Bradbury, and Lon Chaney Jr., alongside legendary sci-fi writer and fan Forrest J. Ackerman and historian Michael F. Blake.

Is Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces (2000) worth watching?

As a documentary, *Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces* offers a well-researched, engaging portrait of a pioneering artist. While it doesn't have an IMDb rating, its blend of archival footage, expert commentary, and fascinating subject matter makes it a compelling watch for silent film enthusiasts and horror fans alike.

How long is Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces?

The runtime of *Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces* is 85 minutes.

About Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces (2000) — The True Story Behind the Silent Era's Greatest Transformation Artist

Dive into the extraordinary life of Lon Chaney, the silent-era master of transformation whose name became synonymous with cinematic horror and makeup artistry, in *Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces* (2000). Directed by the acclaimed historian Kevin Brownlow, this documentary peels back the layers of Chaney's career, revealing how his groundbreaking techniques and haunting performances in silent films like *The Phantom of the Opera* and *The Hunchback of Notre Dame* earned him the moniker "The Man of a Thousand Faces." Through a rich tapestry of archival footage, interviews with legends like Ray Bradbury and Forrest J. Ackerman, and insights from Chaney's own son, Lon Chaney Jr., the film captures the eerie atmosphere and innovative spirit of an era when cinema was first discovering the power of visual storytelling.

This 85-minute tribute doesn't just recount Chaney's life—it immerses viewers in the magic of his craft. By blending historical context with personal anecdotes, *Lon Chaney: A Thousand Faces* paints a vivid portrait of an artist who pushed the boundaries of makeup and performance, leaving an indelible mark on horror and silent film. Whether you're a cinephile or a fan of behind-the-scenes magic, this documentary offers a rare glimpse into the man behind the masks.