Vampires in Silent Cinema - by Gary D Rhodes (Paperback)

About the Book

One of the first academic books devoted to vampires in silent cinema.

Book Synopsis

Despite the enormous cultural impact of Nosferatu (1922) on modern entertainment, the history of vampires in silent film is largely unknown.

Vampires in Silent Cinema covers the subject from 1896-1931, reclaiming a large array of forgotten films from countries ranging from the United States and France to Hungary and Russia. Drawing on thousands of primary sources, Rhodes explores vampirism in all of its manifestations, from the supernatural undead to the natural vamp.

Review Quotes

Vampires in Silent Cinema is an invaluable resource for aficionados and scholars of early cinema. Rhodes' extensive research leaves no stone unturned and has shed light on many mysteries and misconceptions around the birth of the vampire genre. It is among the most illuminating and original books on vampires in recent memory.

--Robert Eggers, Director of The Witch and Nosferatu

At last, an account of the vampire in silent cinema that is fully researched! From Theda Bara's sexy "vamp"; Musidora's criminal Irma Vep; a lost Hungarian film; through to Murnau's Nosferatu and the lead-up to Lugosi's "talkie," Rhodes combines the enthusiasm of a fan with the care of a scholar.

--Tom Gunning, University of Chicago

Rhodes' book is full of original information, presented affably. It entertains as well as informs. It moves through the 18th through 21st centuries, providing a history of vampire culture, and how it was presented through press, books, the stage and screen.--Doug Gibson "Plan 9 Crunch"