Joshua Belyeu Released in 2004, Joel Schumacher's adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's legendary stage production was a long time coming. The play first began in 1986, with singers Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman as the Phantom and Christine, respectively. Webber later married Brightman, and had planned on her reprising Christine Daae for the silver screen. But their eventual divorce put an indefinite hold on the project; it would remain unfulfilled for over a decade. Webber had chosen director Schumacher ("Batman Forever", "Phone Booth") for "Phantom of the Opera" back in the early 1990s, due to his talented use of color and music. Eventually, a deal was struck with Warner Bros. Studios, and the two filmmakers agreed on two things: the cast's overall ages would be reduced in this version (the stage actors were mostly in their late 30's to mid-40's), and all of them would do their own singing. This caused a slight problem with the addition of Minnie Driver, Webber's only choice for the role of Carlotta. Webber dubbed her in-picture singing with a professional soprano, and gave Driver her own song for the film's ending credits. In the main principal roles were actors Gerard Butler as the Phantom, Emmy Rossum as Christine, Patrick Wilson as Raoul, and Miranda Richardson as Madame Giry.Thus is the basic story for the making of the film; upon its release, it was a commercial success in many respects, as fans of the stage musical were excited to see their beloved characters in a new form. The songs, costume designs, sets, and historical representations were all praised...and in my opinion, the film definitely deserves it. However, those unfamiliar with the tale should be cautious. Based on a novel by French author Gaston Leroux, both the musical and the film tell a story deeply mired in themes of romance, love, faith, (in)justice, and death. As such, it's especially important for discerning hearts to be wary of a few elements.Visually, the film's biggest areas of concern are sex and violence. Unlike many films which revel in them, this film thankfully avoids that trap...and while the presence of such elements are important to the story, what's more imprtant is for viewers to know ahead of time what they'll be getting themselves into. Regarding sexual situations, the most obvious one is likely the many nude statues and carvings which adorn the walls and lobby of the opera house. While the camera doesn't excessively linger on them (mostly presenting them as historical art pieces), their inclusion helps to sell the mood of the time in which this tragedy takes place. Costumes worn by many female characters are designed to enhance their curves, particularly above the waist. As for the violent content, the most extreme moments concern the murders of Joseph Buquet and the Phantom's childhood abuser (the latter is shown in flashback). As for Piangi's death, it is mainly done in a quick cut away, and his lifeless form appears shortly thereafter, embraced by a weeping Carlotta.Non-visually, the other theme which fuels this story is the spiritual nature of music. Christine often likens the Phantom to her deceased father's promise of sending her an "Angel of Music", which could be interpreted as an allusion to Satan. Among the dark character's many lines of song are phrases such as "let your darker side give in"; he also refers to himself as a "gargoyle who burns in hell, but secretly yearns for heaven", a "repulsive carcass", and a "beast" or "monster". In the Don Juan performance scene, lyrics such as "when will the flames at last consume us" are present. Overall, an underlying message of this film is one of emotional and spiritual suggestion through the power of music. Used properly, music is a wondrous thing...but used irresponsibly, it can be a greater danger to people than a knife or firearm. Both sides of the collective canvas are presented, so people should know that going in. As a whole, this film gets a 8.5/10 in my book.

karenchapman-87572 I have been checking out films on IMDb for years but have never felt compelled to open an account and actually leave a review so that should say something. I loved this film from the opening scene but the last 1/2 hour was just spectacular! Gerard Butler was so much more than just eye candy (although he was this and more). Classic dramatic performance that actually had me on the verge of tears. Ignore any negative reviews this was quality.

Tennessee The only way I ever heard of this film was when I was in middle school which was like 12 years ago! Man time has flown! Now what I have to say about this film is its very magical in its own way. I read the book back in middle school as I was in a charter school that had French class as a second language and we read the book than watched this version of the Opera. When I saw it for the first time I enjoyed it and fell in love it and soon later I had gotten my hands on it on DVD and it is one of my favorite musical movies I have ever witnessed. I love the story line and I love how the music stays with throughout the whole movie. With Christine and the Phantom I fell for their acting and I admired the way they had to sings some of the sings to me a lot of it was spot on. I did, however, fall for the phantom more. But, anyway, overall the film to me was magnificent and I can easily watch it over and over again. And when I have to just have it digitally I will definitely do that for sure.

pcpl1 Great songs. However a lot of lip sync. A lot of goofs. The story in this film is so disconnected from the novel by Gaston Leroux. The phantom is described as being sad even if sadistic. The scene with the mirrors is far from as brilliant as in the novel. Mr. Buttler has no breathing technique and is not as good as most singers that sang Music of the night on stage! I'll give this movie a 6 out of 10.