This is the HARDBACK version. The silent movie version of The Phantom of the Opera that we are familiar today is not the original 1925 release but a silent version of the 1929 sound remake. Directed by Rupert Julian and starring Lon Chaney, Sr. in the title role as a deformed musician haunting the Paris Opera House, committing murder, and terrorizing the owners and producers in a pathetic and terrible attempt to earn the love of a famous opera singer. Stars included Mary Philbin, Norman Kerry, Arthur Edmund Carewe, Gibson Gowland, John St. Polis, and Snitz Edwards. The last surviving cast member was Carla Laemmle, who was the niece of Universal Studios' producer Carl Laemmle. In this new illustrated book, follow the history of the 1925 original release from Gaston Leroux's original conception to the 1929 sound remake. What actual events inspired the story? What inspired Chaney's makeup? What was in the hour of footage cut from the film's release that was considered too horrible for audiences in 1925? Contributions by Mary Philbin (Christine), Ray Bradbury, Ron Chaney, Carl Laemmle Junior, Charles Van Enger (cinematographer), Rupert Julian, Virgil Miller (cinematographer), Ben Carre (Art Director), and Patric Leroux. Includes a short biography and bibliography of Gaston Leroux by Francis Lacassin, and a facsimile of the original May 1931 Liberty magazine five-part article, "Lon Chaney, A Portrait of the Man Behind the Thousand Faces," by Adela Rogers St. Johns. "Each page is filled with documented information that will change a few history books. You almost get the feeling that you are part of the Golden' years of Hollywood." -Ray Bradbury "It looks as if this volume of The Phantom of the Opera will be the only record for the rest of time if the original release of 1925." -Ron Chaney