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Who is the silent star that was most like Klaus Kinski,
as Kinski represents to me a very original actor, someone who is quotable,
and generates some kind of following or respect (even if he was hard to work
with and crazy at times). Also, robustness should be in there, since Kinski
made 130 films. It's one thing if an actor is over the top and only made five
movies, but if they make over 50, something is working in them.
So, who are the most intelligent and original silent stars that were kind of
"out there" (extra points the further out there they are).

I would love to hear a female version, also.

Erich Von Stroheim.

Rob Farr wrote:Erich Von Stroheim.

Rob, I was also going to say Erich -- my fave -- and Lon Chaney.

Mae Murray was also noted for her eccentricity.

Seems like the directors may have been more colorful than the actors.
Wellman certainly was a personality.

I'd throw in Pola Negri, too, as practically the definition of silent movie queen.

Rob Farr wrote:Erich Von Stroheim.

Bingo.

Josef von Sternberg might be my runner-up choice.

Does drinking & whoring (as well as extraordinary acting) earn one a place in the pantheon of Over-the-Toppers? If so, then John Barrymore, certainly.

entredeuxguerres wrote:Does drinking & whoring (as well as extraordinary acting) earn one a place in the pantheon of Over-the-Toppers? If so, then John Barrymore, certainly.

Yes, Barrymore came to my mind, too. But I think the thread answered my question.
There really hasn't ever been an actor (or director) even remotely like Klaus Kinski.
His picture really has to be there next to the dictionary definition of the phrase.

Hmmm. Off the top of my head: Jetta Goudal? Corrinne Griffith in later years.