Silent Mystery and Detective Movies

The silent film era was known in part for its cliffhanger serials and air of suspense that kept audiences returning to theaters week after week. Icons such as Douglas Fairbanks, Laurel and Hardy, Lon Chaney and Harry Houdini were among those who graced the dark and shadowy screen. This reference guide to silent films with mystery and detective content lists more than 1,500 titles in one of entertainment’s most popular and enduring genres. While most of the films examined are from North America, mystery films from around the world are included.

The late Ken Wlaschin was former director of creative affairs at the American Film Institute, headed the Institute’s National Film Theater and founded its Los Angeles film festival. He previously directed the British Film Institute’s National Film Theater and London film festival for 14 years. Wlaschin, the author of three other McFarland books, lived in Palm Springs, California.

Ken Wlaschin
Format: softcover (7 x 10)
Pages: 291
Bibliographic Info: 194 photos, appendix, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2009
pISBN: 978-0-7864-4350-5
eISBN: 978-0-7864-5429-7
Imprint: McFarland

Introduction      1

The Films      3

Appendix: Authors Whose Stories Were Filmed in the Silent Era      249

Bibliography      265

Index      269

“comprehensive…recommended”—Booklist; “an important reference contribution. Recommended”—Choice; “a valuable addition to any film library…well-written, educational, and eminently readable”—ARBA; “a valuable stepping-stone”—Scarlet;“comprehensive…massive…an excellent reference title”—Rogue Cinema.