STG Presents Trader Joe's Silent Movie Mondays: The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923)

This show is part of our 2008 - 2009 Subscription Season. Read more about it here!
 

Featuring Dennis James on The Paramount's Mighty Wurlitzer Organ
 

The locale of the story is in the city of Paris ten years before Columbus discovered America, and is a serious, tragic production throughout.

The story centers on the life of Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer of the famous Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris. He is prevailed upon by Jehan, the Archdeacon's evil brother, to kidnap the fair Esmeralda, the ward of the King of the underworld, Clopin. Esmeralda is rescued by dashing Phoebus, and taken under his wing. Quasimodo is sentenced to be lashed in the public square. While he is suffering under the sting of the whip, Esmeralda comes and brings him water. From that time on he is her devoted slave. Jehan and Clopin learn that Captain Phoebus plans to wed Esmeralda, and do all in their power to break up the affair, but fail. Jehan then stabs Phoebus and lays the blame on Esmeralda. She is sentenced to die, but is rescued by Quasimodo and escapes to the Cathedral, where she takes refuge. Clopin, egged on by Jehan, tries to storm the Cathedral while the crafty Jehan uses the time to loot the treasure vaults. Quasimodo, single handed, battles off the invaders with streams of molten lead, but gives his life in saving Esmeralda from Jehan. Phoebus, who was only wounded, comes to the rescue and saves the Church and his sweetheart. As they clasp each other to their hearts, Quasimodo rings their happiness and his own dirge. The film is notable for the grand film sets that recall 15th century Paris as well as spectacular performances by primary characters - Lon Chaney and Patsy Ruth Miller under the direction of Wallace Worsley.

 
All artists, times and dates are subject to change.