The Haunted House (1928 film)

The Haunted House is a 1928 American silent comedy horror film directed by Benjamin Christensen, starring Larry Kent, Thelma Todd, and Flora Bramley. Produced and distributed by First National Pictures, it combines elements of slapstick comedy with a supernatural premise. The film is notable as one of Christensen's few American works, and is remembered for its elaborate set designs and comedic take on the haunted house trope.

The story revolves around a group of travelers who seek refuge from a storm in what appears to be an abandoned mansion. Unbeknownst to them, the house is rumored to be haunted, and strange and comical events begin to unfold, involving secret passages, ghostly apparitions, and mistaken identities. The film relies heavily on visual gags and physical comedy to create a humorous, rather than genuinely frightening, experience.

Although not a major box office success upon its initial release, The Haunted House has gained recognition in subsequent years for its stylistic elements and historical significance. It represents a bridge between early horror films and more comedic takes on the genre. A copy of the film is preserved at the Library of Congress.