Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novella The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde has been brought to both film and television numerous times. Three film adaptations appeared in 1920, including this one that made John Barrymore a star. The actor’s ability to capture the duality of Stevenson’s character is still fascinating to witness, nearly ninety-five years after the film’s release.

Dr. Henry Jekyll (Barrymore) runs a free clinic for the poor, and wants to do more. While his fellow physicians are content to treat whatever illnesses they can, Jekyll wants to learn more and unlock the mysteries of the universe. Henry is engaged to Millicent Carew (Martha Mansfield). One evening, Millicent’s father Sir George (Brandon Hurst) chastises Henry for being such a goody-goody. He takes his son-in-law-to-be to a dance hall where the sensual moves of one of the dancers awaken Henry’s more primal instincts.

Jekyll resolves to find a way to indulge both the good and evil side of his nature without one interfering with the other. He secretly develops and drinks a potion which transforms him into a hideous man—whom he names Edward Hyde (also Barrymore)—and then back again.  At first, he’s able to control the monster within. However, it’s not long before Hyde begins taking over his life.

Barrymore’s dual performance is a delight to watch. Watching him morph from good to evil with the turn of his head is revelatory; of course, much of this is done with the aid of makeup and the special effects of the day, but Barrymore seems to contort his face into a countless number of expressions. Also given Barrymore’s reputation as one of the world’s great stage actors, but also a hopeless drunk, one wonders if he felt like he had a bit of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde living inside of him.

Director John S. Robertson does a fine job, if only because he was wise enough to let John Barrymore do the heavy lifting. While the effects weren’t necessarily cutting edge, they work well enough. The film moves along at as good pace, and should keep the attention of those interested in films from the silent era.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde receives a strong Blu-ray release from Kino. Framed in the 1.33:1 aspect ratio, the 1080p transfer looks quite good considering its age. There is some obvious print damage, but it’s far from severe. Detail is good, and contrast is better than expected.

The mono sound isn’t anything particularly special, but the score performed by the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra is solid as always.

The following extras are included:

  • 1912 Version (13:49) From Tannhauser Studio and starring James Cruze, this isn’t very good, but it’s interesting to see from a historical perspective.
  • The Rival 1920 Version (14:44) Louis B. Mayer’s production stars Sheldon Lewis, and is definitely a product of its time.
  •  Dr. Pyckel and Mr. Pride (21:31) A fairly funny Stan Laurel parody.
  • The Transformation Scene (Audio Only) (2:34) Interesting historical artifact.