The first important horror film originated in Germany with Robert Wiene's 1919 expressionistic masterpiece, THE CABINET OF DR. CALIGARI. In America, the horror genre's roots stem from a classic piece of literature, Robert Louis Stevenson's DR. JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE. The story, about a noble scientist's attempt to expel the evil inclinations within the human soul, was the subject of a number of short films since the earliest days of cinema. In 1920, it was adapted into a feature length production in which the great stage actor John Barrymore had his first major screen role, and is generally regarded as America's first true horror film.
Directed by John S. Robertson, it is a fairly faithful rendition of Stevenson's novel and perfectly captures the period of 19th century London. Barrymore delivers a tour de force dual performance, and his transformation into the malevolent Mr. Hyde is a chilling study in pantomime. As the character degenerates further, Barrymore's features become more hideous, his movements more spider-like as he preys upon his female victims. One of these hapless women is played by the exotic Nita Naldi, who projects a potent eroticism that is enough to tempt the latent, lustful desires of Barrymore's good Dr. Jekyll.
Compared to later versions of the famous tale, this excellent silent classic holds its own and has a grim feeling of decay that the others somehow lack. Much of this is due to Barrymore - he really is creepy as Hyde, and while he did use some makeup, it's mostly through facial and bodily contortions that the characterization was realised. Add Roy Overbaugh's shadowy cinematography, and the final effect is splendidly eerie and atmospheric.
Kino/Lorber's Deluxe Edition Blu-ray has been newly remastered from a 35mm archival negative, and features an appropriately melodramatic music score by the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra. The image quality surpasses Kino's previous DVD, although some minor wear due to age is still apparent. Two brief sections were obtained from a lesser quality source, but this is the only existing material on the footage. The film is presented with tinting that isn't overly saturated. The boost to HD definitely justifies an upgrade, and I enjoy watching DR. JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE even more, what with all the detail clarity I can now see. Even with the physical ravages of time, this Blu-ray is the next best thing to seeing the actual print - which we would expect to contain wear anyway.
Extra features have been bumped over from the DVD: the 1912 Thanhouser version starring James Cruze; a 15 minute excerpt from a 1920 rival version produced by Louis B. Mayer; DR. PYCKLE AND MR. PRIDE, a 1925 parody starring Stan Laurel; and a 1909 audio recording of "The Transformation Scene."
If you love classic screen horror, this influential film belongs in your collection. I gladly give it my highest recommendation.
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Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on February 19, 2014
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Top reviews from other countries
Martin Morris
Dr jekyll and Mr hyde silent classic brilliant.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 22, 2022CJF
Cette version est à proscrire (ASIN: B00NAGMCO8)
Reviewed in France on June 19, 2016