The Man Who Laughs is a 1928 American silent film directed by Paul Leni and starring Conrad Veidt, Mary Philbin, and Olga Baclanova. It is based on the 1869 novel of the same name by Victor Hugo.
The film begins with Gwynplaine and his father being kidnapped by a group of gypsies who are then executed on false charges of treason. Gwynplaine's face is mutilated by the court jester, who carves a permanent smile on his face. He is then abandoned in the cold streets of London.
Gwynplaine is taken in by a traveling showman, Ursus, who raises him as his own son. Gwynplaine becomes a popular attraction in the show due to his unique appearance. He falls in love with a blind girl named Dea, who also performs in the show. They share a deep connection and plan to marry.
Meanwhile, the King who ordered Gwynplaine's mutilation dies, and his evil jester, Barkilphedro, returns to cause trouble. He tries to destroy Gwynplaine's reputation and corrupt him with money and power. Barkilphedro's plan fails when Gwynplaine refuses to abandon his love for Dea.
The Man Who Laughs is known for its striking cinematography, especially the expressions on Conrad Veidt's face, which were achieved through prosthetics and makeup. The film's theme of social injustice and the corrupting influence of power is still relevant today.