Silent Films

[Lancaster of Wessex]

I have recently started exploring this world on YouTube and have enjoyed quite a few so far. My first silent film was Nosferatu, which I have since made a habit of watching every 31st of October (for there's no better day to watch it), and it is likely, I imagine, the finest "Dracula/vampire" film in history.

I have since began exploring the films of Rudolph Valentino, the archetype "Latin lover," and have enjoyed quite a few (although one not so much).

I know there's tons more out there to explore, including the works of other legends such as Douglas Fairbanks, Charles Chaplin, and John Barrymore, and others.

Is anyone else, or has anyone else, been interested to explore this largely forgotten cinematic art? Do you have any favourite films, or actors from this bygone era?

Would love to hear any recommendations or thoughts, too!

[Maichuko]

The only silent films Iv'e seen so far are a trip to the moon and a few charlie Chaplin films on youtube. it seems weird knowing some of these are over a century old.

[Snow Bird-Worldism Crash]

Frau im Mond (1929) is a classic.

[Southland]

Several of Fritz Lang's works, especially Metropolis, are some good ones.

If you are into surrealist stuff, Un Chien Andalou is a definite recommendation, especially since Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali collaborated on the film. I must warn you that one scene is pretty bloody (and the effects is pretty realistic), so probably not recommended if you're squeamish.

Greed by Erich von Stroheim is another classic.

Really I can just go on about this. PM if you want some more.

[Frank Zipper]

The Cabinet of Doctor Caligari
Der Golem
Haxan
Vampyr
The Phantom Carriage

Are all worth a look in my view for silent horror films.

[The Huskar Social Union]

I watched Battleship Potempkin and October: 10 days that shook the world a few months back as part of my dissertation research, i found them both to be quite enjoyable, but outside of that ive not experienced that many silent films or shorts.

I remember seeing some Laurel and hardy when i was younger, near certain they were silent.