Canadian Premiere of the new Restoration

Despite the lurid title, this isn’t a horror film. Virtually unknown and unseen for decades, this beautifully photographed, at times spectacular, production follows two lovers who flee the pressures of family and impoverishment to join a travelling circus. But all the glitter of the limelight and cheering crowds mask a much more dangerous reality closing in on them as they discover the real monsters are not their fellow sideshow performers.

Producer Marcel L’Herbier (L’Inhumaine-TSFF2017) persuaded his star from that film to both direct and act. You’ll notice overtones that will be utilized years later in The Man Who Laughs 1928 and a foretelling use of the powerful dynamics found in Freaks. This gorgeous new restoration by Lobster Films showcases the creative confidence, sophisticated editing and surreal avant-garde touches common in European mid 1920s European productions.

Restoration by Lobster Films Film courtesy of Flicker Alley

Live accompaniment by Tania Gill