Promotional material for the film adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel, typically featuring imagery of Gwynplaine, the protagonist disfigured with a permanent grin, often emphasizes this striking visual element. Examples include original release posters, re-release promotional materials, and modern artistic interpretations for home video and streaming services.
These artifacts serve as visual representations of a complex narrative exploring social injustice, exploitation, and the nature of happiness. Historically, the imagery’s impact has ranged from captivating audiences to unsettling viewers. This visual element has become iconic in cinematic history, representing both the film itself and broader themes of marginalized individuals and societal hypocrisy. The enduring power of this imagery continues to resonate with audiences and inspires artistic reinterpretations.