Dwain Esper facts for kids
Dwain Atkins Esper (October 7, 1894 – October 18, 1982) was an American director and producer. He made films that often explored unusual or exciting topics.
Quick facts for kids
Dwain Esper
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| Born | October 7, 1894 Snohomish, Washington, U.S.
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| Died | October 18, 1982 (aged 88) San Diego, California, U.S.
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| Occupation | Filmmaker, producer |
| Spouse(s) |
Hildagarde Stadie
(m. 1920) |
| Children | 2 |
Contents
Early Life and Career
Dwain Esper was born in Snohomish, Washington, on October 7, 1894. He served in World War I. After the war, he worked as a building contractor.
In the mid-1920s, Esper decided to change careers. He entered the film business. He became known for producing and directing movies that were made with a small budget. His wife, Hildagarde Stadie, was a big part of his work. She wrote many of the scripts for his films. The couple also used unusual ways to promote their movies.
About Maniac (1934)
One of Dwain Esper's most talked-about films is Maniac, released in 1934. This movie was loosely based on "The Black Cat" by Edgar Allan Poe. The story follows a performer who becomes an assistant to a scientist with strange ideas.
Many film critics and historians consider Maniac to be one of the worst films ever made. For example, Danny Peary thought it was the worst movie. Charlie Jane Anders of io9 called it "possibly the worst movie in history." Michael Wilmington, a critic for the Chicago Tribune, also said it might be the worst film he had seen. Rotten Tomatoes included Maniac on its list of "So Bad They're Unmissable" movies. It is also mentioned in The Official Razzie Movie Guide, which highlights very bad films.
Dwain Esper passed away in San Diego, California, on October 18, 1982. He was 88 years old. He and Hildagarde had two children together.
Selected Films
Dwain Esper directed and produced many films during his career. Here are some of them:
Films Directed by Dwain Esper
- Sinister Harvest (1930)
- The Seventh Commandment (1932)
- Maniac (1934)
- Modern Motherhood (1934)
- How to Undress in Front of Your Husband (1937)
- Curse of the Ubangi (1946)
- Will It Happen Again? (1948)
Films Produced by Dwain Esper
These are films he produced but did not direct:
- How to Take a Bath (1937)
- Angkor (1935)
Reissued Films
Dwain Esper also reissued some other films, helping them reach new audiences:
- Reefer Madness
- Hell-a-Vision
- Man's Way with Women
- Freaks (reissued as Forbidden Love and Natures Mistakes)
- Cain: Aventures des mers exotiques
