Movie Nights in Minerva: October Film Series – Public Domain Horror 

Our October chills continue with a special afternoon matinee screening of one of the most iconic horror films of all time: The Phantom of the Opera (1925).

Like all the films in this series, Phantom lives in the public domain, free from copyright restrictions and open for anyone to view, share, and study. And while we’re celebrating Banned Books Week, it’s worth remembering that it’s not just books that get censored; films do too. In fact, The Phantom of the Opera was banned in the United Kingdom from 1925–1929 because censors felt Lon Chaney’s horrifying Phantom makeup was too grotesque and shocking for audiences. The ban reminds us that whether on the page or the screen, stories that push boundaries have always faced attempts at suppression.

The Phantom of the Opera (1925)
This silent film classic, starring Lon Chaney in his legendary self-designed makeup, follows the mysterious, masked Phantom who haunts the Paris Opera House and secretly tutors a young soprano he adores. Romance, obsession, and unmasking terror collide in one of the most visually haunting movies of the silent era. Bring your imagination—because in true silent-film style, the horror speaks louder than words.

• Rated: Unrated (Silent-era gothic thrills, suitable for most audiences)

• Runtime: 1hr 32mins

And yes, we’ll still be serving hot, fresh popcorn because nothing pairs with silent screams like a loud crunch. Join us in the Minerva Room for this afternoon dive into cinema history, and reflect on how both books and films have been censored throughout history, and why free expression is worth defending.

Registration is not required, but preferred.