MGM’s Horror Classics: A Spine-Chilling Collection

Description: This adaptation of Gaston Leroux's novel features Lon Chaney's iconic portrayal of the Phantom, with its eerie setting and dramatic score making it a timeless horror classic.

Fact: Lon Chaney's makeup for the Phantom was so effective that it terrified audiences, leading to some fainting spells.

Description: A gothic horror film based on Oscar Wilde's novel, it tells the story of a man whose portrait ages while he remains youthful, reflecting his moral decay. The film's eerie atmosphere and moral ambiguity are captivating.

Fact: The film was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won for Best Cinematography, Black-and-White.

Description: A horror film about a disembodied hand that seems to have a life of its own, terrorizing a small Italian village. The film's eerie premise and atmospheric setting are compelling.

Fact: The film was inspired by a short story by W. F. Harvey, and its title became a popular phrase for horror anthology shows.

Description: A chilling tale of a seemingly perfect little girl who might just be a sociopathic murderer. This film explores the nature vs. nurture debate in a way that's both terrifying and thought-provoking.

Fact: The film was adapted from a play, which itself was based on a novel. It was controversial at the time for its portrayal of a child as a killer.

Description: A psychological horror masterpiece, this film delves into the eerie happenings at Hill House, where a group of strangers experience paranormal activities. Its subtle terror and atmospheric tension make it a standout in MGM's horror catalog.

Fact: The film was based on Shirley Jackson's novel "The Haunting of Hill House." It was remade in 1999 but the original remains a classic for its subtlety and psychological depth.

Description: A chilling tale of occult and soul transference, where a dying pianist transfers his soul into a young journalist, leading to a series of horrifying events. The film's eerie score and supernatural elements make it a unique entry.

Fact: The film features a haunting score by Jerry Goldsmith, which adds to the film's unsettling atmosphere.

Description: A silent film that blends crime with horror, where a ventriloquist, a strongman, and a dwarf form a criminal gang. Its dark themes and Lon Chaney's performance make it memorable.

Fact: This was one of the first films to be remade as a talkie in 1930, with Chaney reprising his role.

Description: A classic whodunit with a supernatural twist, this film involves a seance to solve a murder mystery, blending horror with mystery in a way that was innovative for its time.

Fact: It was one of the earliest films to use a seance as a plot device, setting a trend for future horror-mystery films.

Description: This film noir thriller, set in the early 20th century, follows a mute woman who becomes the target of a serial killer targeting women with disabilities. The suspense and gothic atmosphere make it a gripping watch.

Fact: The film was remade in 1975 and again in 2000, but the original is celebrated for its suspenseful storytelling and atmospheric cinematography.

Description: A mad scientist uses miniaturized humans as living dolls to exact revenge. The film's blend of science fiction and horror, along with its special effects, make it a unique entry in MGM's horror collection.

Fact: The film was directed by Tod Browning, known for his work on "Dracula" and "Freaks," showcasing his flair for the macabre.