Lon Chaney, Jr.: Horror Film Star, 1906-1973

by Don G. Smith

Though he was haunted by the shadow of his legendary father and devastated by alcoholism, Lon Chaney, Jr., carved out a very successful film career as Universal's leading horror star in the 1940s, and later as a leading character actor in Westerns, dramas, and on television. While rightly focused on the career of the underrated actor, this study also explores his life and times.

Genres: Biography

248 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1995

About the author

The late Don G. Smith was an associate professor in history and philosophy of education at Eastern Illinois University. He wrote for numerous publications, including Filmfax, Scarlet Street, Movie Collector’s World and Midnight Marquee.

Reviews

[R.G. Evans · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ironically enough, I finished reading this book on November 19, which was the night of the full moon and a lunar eclipse. How appropriate for a book about a man who was haunted by the full moon and often eclipsed in his career by the demons that plagued him. I was hoping for more insight into Chaney the man than this book offered. Instead, it traces Chaney's film and TV acting career film-by-film, episode-by-episode with a detailed plot description of each. Interspersed are some observations about Chaney by his Hollywood contemporaries, but eventually I found my self skimming over long blocks of plot description, particularly of Chaney's string of B westerns, the plot description of most ended with phrases like "A dismal effort at best." Smith champions Chaney as a better actor than most critics (and most of Chaney's performances) would have you believe, but he makes some deep dives into supposition that isn't backed up by any evidence which I found distracting. Still, the book did add a few film titles to my must see list. I'll let their plots speak for themselves.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Insightful and comprehensive

[ney · Rating 1 out of 5]

It seems like the singular purpose of this book is to enhance Lon Chaney Jr.'s reputation. The author is self-indulgent in including his own irrelevant personal opinions. Hard to churn out the facts.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lon Chaney Jr was a legendary genre personality (think of The Wolf Man!). But who was the man behind? Alcoholic, bully boy and God knows what else? In this biography we are informed on the early years, learning his craft, Lon & Patsy, The Wolf Man of course, the Frankenstein series, the Mummy series, the Inner Sanctum series, Son of Dracula, supporting roles, character gems, horror films, Westerns and TV, the A.C. Lyle Years, exploitation, decline and death (1966-1973). The book ends with a filmography. It was absolutely interesting to learn more about this legendary actor and horror film star. The fact that he still is talked about shows how unique he was. Highly recommended!

[Steven Cady]

This is a basic biography of Lon Chaney Jr., mostly from other sources, often from UNIVERSAL HORRORS and KEEP WATCHING THE SKIES. Much of the book consists of plot descriptions which get somewhat tedious. It does illuminate the numerous mediocre movies Mr. Chaney acted in. There's a nice filmography and good source notes.