Question 1

Why was Lon Chaney's Phantom makeup kept completely secret before the film's release?

Accepted Answer

Universal Pictures wanted The Phantom's face to be a complete surprise when his mask was ripped off, so no photos were published before the premiere.

Question 2

Which actor was so essential to the film that the director said it couldn't be made without him?

Accepted Answer

Director Rupert Julian insisted "Lon Chaney, or it can't be done!" when first presented with the script.

Question 3

What childhood memory did Gregory Peck have about this film?

Accepted Answer

At age 9, Gregory Peck was so scared by The Phantom of the Opera that his grandmother let him sleep in her bed that night.

Question 4

Was Mary Philbin's reaction to the unmasked Phantom genuine?

Accepted Answer

Yes, according to cameraman Charles Van Enger, Mary Philbin had no idea what Lon Chaney would look like until the unmasking scene.

Question 5

What happened to The Phantom's distinctive bed after this film?

Accepted Answer

The Phantom's bed was reused as Gloria Swanson's bed in Sunset Boulevard (1950).

The Phantom of the Opera

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