Whale was born into a large family. Early on, he discovered his artistic talent and studied art. With the outbreak of World War I, Whale joined the British Army. He became an officer. He was captured by the Germans. During his time as a prisoner of war, he became interested in theatre. After the war, he became an actor, set designer, and director. He moved to the United States to direct a Broadway play, and then moved to Hollywood to direct movies. 