Free Movie at the Bardavon: "Phantom of the Opera" (1925) with Live Organ Accompaniment

This 1925 silent adaptation of the now-famous tale of "The Phantom of the Opera" serves as a showcase of the many talents of actor and makeup artist Lon Chaney Sr. Known as “The Man of a Thousand Faces,” Chaney was renowned as one of the most versatile and powerful performers of the silent era. His revolutionary makeup techniques allowed him to transform into a variety of grotesque and horrifying characters, none more memorable than the Phantom, whose famous “unmasking” scene was said to have made theater patrons faint upon its release in 1925. Nearly 100 years later, the film still holds audiences in its thrall, and it created a number of techniques that still populate the horror genre today.

This screening is part of the Bardavon's 2024-25 film series, "Premier Performances." The film choices in this series focus on legendary stars of stage and screen in some of their most memorable roles. In addition to the screenings being free of charge, all nine films in the series are preceded by a Happy Hour, featuring half-price beer and wine, as well as free snacks and soda. For all films, Happy Hour starts at 6:30 p.m., followed by each screening at 7:30.

Additionally, all Bardavon screenings feature a 30-minute pre-show concert by Juan Cardona Jr. on the Bardavon’s Mighty Wurlitzer organ, courtesy of NYTOS. Come and experience a piece of cinematic history!