Join us as we examine the life and art of silent film’s most versatile actor – Lon Chaney. From underpaid bit performer to the undisputed master of makeup artistry, Chaney left behind a remarkable legacy despite the fact that so many of his performances have been lost to time. Born to deaf parents, Chaney’s ability to express himself through gesture and body language became not only his way of communication but the ultimate expression of the art of silent film acting. Part one of this two part lecture we will explore the 15 years Chaney struggled as a working actor transitioning from the stage to film. Part-two will delve into Chaney’s years as a movie star, diving deeply into Chaney’s surviving movie roles where we will see that even without any make-up, Chaney really was the greatest actor of his time.

Matthew Weisman received his MFA in Film from Columbia University School of the Arts where he also taught classes in Cinema Studies and directed the Cinematheque film program. His undergraduate degree in English is from Boston University. A professional screenwriter and producer, he taught Graduate Screenwriting at the USC School of Cinema for fifteen years. He is a retired member of The Writers Guild of America. He has taught several continuing education courses in film and television history and appreciation both online and in the classroom.