''The Hunchback of Notre Dame'' (1923)

By Crusader1307

A 1831 Victor Hugo Novel, the story centers around an extremely deformed Bell Ringer named Quasimodo. His inability to interact with people due to his hideous deformities (other than his one-sided love for the beautiful Gypsy Esmeralda), was the stuff of both Horror and Pathos. Over 7 big budget films have been made (along with cartoons and TV series). The classic version is of course the 1923 silent film starring Lon Chaney Sr. (The Man of A Thousand Faces). Known for his abilities and skill with early make-up, Chaney transformed himself into a horribly deformed Hunchback with equally disfigured face. Not seen in before, it was Chaney's portrayal of Quasimodo that set the stage for all others. A full scale miniature Notre Dame Cathedral was constructed for Chaney to swing from (he also did his own stunts). Although silent, the film is a classic example of early Film Horror.