Man of a Thousand Faces

Man of a Thousand Faces

Year: 1957

Runtime: 122 min

Language: English

Director: Joseph Pevney

BiographyDrama

This biographical drama portrays Lon Chaney, a celebrated vaudeville performer, through the captivating performance of James Cagney. The film explores Chaney's challenging personal life, revealing a man grappling with unrequited love and a constant search for acceptance. As he rises to fame in Hollywood, the story delves into his complicated past and the impact it has on his present, showcasing a poignant struggle to find his true identity and forge meaningful connections.

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Timeline – Man of a Thousand Faces (1957)

Trace every key event in Man of a Thousand Faces (1957) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Tragic Beginning at Universal Studios

In 1930, the film opens at Universal Studios where the atmosphere is heavy with sorrow. The flag is seen at half-mast, mourning the loss of the beloved actor Lon Chaney, highlighting his impact on the film industry.

1930 Universal Studios
2

Lon's Challenging Childhood

Growing up in Colorado Springs, Lon Chaney experiences constant bullying. This persecution stems from his parents' deafness and their reliance on sign language, creating a sense of isolation for young Lon.

Colorado Springs
3

Introduction of Cleva

As a vaudeville performer, Lon introduces his pregnant wife, Cleva, to his family. The family's inability to hear or speak startles Cleva, deepening her concerns about their unborn child's future.

4

Birth of Creighton

Fortunately for Lon, their son Creighton is born with the gift of hearing. This milestone allows Lon to relish the joys of fatherhood, although underlying tensions loom over the family.

5

Marriage Strains

As time passes, cracks start to form in Lon’s marriage to Cleva. The situation worsens when Lon begins an affair with Hazel, a chorus girl, compromising the family's stability.

6

Cleva's Desperation

After discovering Lon's infidelity, Cleva reaches a point of desperation and attempts to take her own life. This tragic event leads to a scandal that significantly derails Lon's vaudeville career.

7

Creighton's Removal

Following Cleva's departure, Creighton is taken in by the state, leaving Lon devastated and isolated. This marks a turning point in Lon's life as he grapples with the loss of his son.

8

Journey to Hollywood

Heeding the advice of his press agent, Clarence Locan, Lon moves to Hollywood with dreams of re-building his life. He starts as a film extra, where he faces the harsh realities of the entertainment industry.

Hollywood
9

Rise to Stardom

Through hard work and his unique talent for transformation aided by expert make-up, Lon earns the title 'The Man of a Thousand Faces.' His success gradually puts him back on the path to redemption.

10

Marriage to Hazel

Lon's fortunes improve dramatically when he marries Hazel. This new partnership restores a sense of stability in his life and helps him regain custody of Creighton.

11

Cleva's Return

While filming 'Hunchback of Notre Dame,' Cleva unexpectedly returns to Lon's life, seeking to reunite with Creighton. Lon, who has led Creighton to believe that Cleva has passed away, now faces the consequences of his deception.

12

Creighton's Choice

Faced with the revelation of his mother's return, Creighton struggles with his loyalties. Ultimately, he decides to reconnect with Cleva, which creates a profound rift between him and Lon.

13

Health Crisis

On the set of 'The Unholy Three,' Lon initially believes he is suffering from tonsillitis. However, he is struck with the devastating news that he is actually battling bronchial cancer, altering the course of his remaining days.

14

Final Reconciliation

Before his passing, Lon makes amends with Creighton, cherishing their last moments together. This reconciliation is filled with warmth, allowing them to share poignant memories.

15

Legacy of Lon Chaney Jr.

In his final moments, Lon requests his makeup box and decides to write 'Jr.' beside his name. This act symbolizes his wish for Creighton to carry on his legacy and follow in his father's footsteps.

Last Updated: November 04, 2024 at 01:22

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Man of a Thousand Faces Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Man of a Thousand Faces

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