Paul Leni

Paul Leni (8 July 1885 – 2 September 1929) was a German film director and production designer who worked in Hollywood during the 1920s. He is best known for his work on silent horror films, particularly The Cat and the Canary and The Man Who Laughs. He was known for his innovative use of light and shadow, and his contributions to the development of German Expressionist cinema. He died at the age of 44 from blood poisoning. His work has been influential on later horror and suspense films.

A scene from The Cat and The Canary 1927
Films

The Cat and The Canary 1927

The Cat and the Canary 1927 is about heirs spending a night in a haunted mansion and being targeted by a vengeful figure seeking retribution.

A scene from The Man Who Laughs 1928
Films

The Man Who Laughs 1928

The Man Who Laughs 1928 is based on Victor Hugo’s novel about a disfigured performer in 17th century England who struggles with his identity, class, and love.

A scene from The Last Warning 1929
Films

The Last Warning 1929

The Last Warning 1929 follows a group of actors who gather to perform a play in an abandoned theater, only to be haunted by a series of eerie and deadly events.