The Man Who Laughs Film Analysis

The Man who Laughs explores social issues that were popular in the 1920s. Big issues that are apparent in the film are the shift in women 's roles, Gwynplaine’s rise to fame reflecting the recent development of the American movie star and how his mutilated face symbolizes the Gilded Age of the Roaring 20’s. Dea and Josiana are the two distinct characters who embody the women of the twenties. They represent the idea that there is an old, traditional sort of woman and a new woman who is shaped by shifting attitudes, beliefs and values. Dea represents an old-fashioned girl who holds on to her innocence and traditional ideals (Pope-Levison 498) . These women often attracted crowds without lascivious acts. Dea is seen without any makeup, and with long hair and conservative attire. The flappers, on the other hand, are challenging these traditional ideas and beliefs. Josiana is a prime example of a flapper in the film. She wore darker and heavier make-up, her hair was short and clothes were often revealing (Sherrow). She was not afraid to get what she …show more content…
Hollywood is constantly birthing new icons for the world to obsess over; today there are many celebrities that have dominated the media much like the stars of the 1920s did. In today’s society, people have put a filter on their lives, being able to upload and delete any reality they wish to create on the Internet. Gwynplaine was born with this filter that made it seem like he was happy all the time. Humans want to create the idea that life is beautiful and perfect without showing the ugly side of things, which is shown in Gwynplaine’s fame, as people only were interested in his superficial smile. The Man who Laughs is a well executed film and although it strays from Victor Hugo’s novel, it is impactful because it reflects the attitudes, values and beliefs of the Roaring