Silent Mystery and Detective Movies
A Comprehensive Filmography
by Ken Wlaschin
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Book Presentation:
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.
About the Author:
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.
Press Reviews:
"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.
See the publisher website: McFarland & Co
> From the same author:
The Silent Cinema in Song, 1896–1929 (2008)
An Illustrated History and Catalog of Songs Inspired by the Movies and Stars, with a List of Recordings
by Ken Wlaschin
Subject: Silent Cinema
Encyclopedia of Opera on Screen (2004)
A Guide to More Than 100 Years of Opera Films, Videos, and DVDs
by Ken Wlaschin
> On a related topic:
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle at the Cinema (2004)
A Critical Study of the Film Adaptations
Zones Of Anxiety (2005)
Movement, Musidora, and the crime serials of Louis Feuillade
Screening Sherlock (2025)
A Cultural History of the Great Detective on Film and Television
Perplexing Plots (2023)
Popular Storytelling and the Poetics of Murder