Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1920)

This version of the well-known Robert Louis Stevenson story of a man who experiments in dividing himself into two distinct personalities is the earliest I have thus far seen. Being closer to the publication of the original story, it feels much less like a period and more a contemporary work. I had watched this to see John Barrymore’s portrayal and it really is a sight to behold. His gyrations and contortions, particularly during that first transformation are an incredible commitment to the craft.