peter-c-odlaug

First off let me say that this movie is very lavishly done. The sets, costumes and photography are beautiful to look at. The music is well...if you've seen the stage version or have the original soundtrack then you've heard this shows' music before. That being said, the repetition of the melodies starts to get very monotonous but the movie moves along and provides ample distraction. Gerarld Butler's "Phantom" is very pleasing to look at. His swagger and motions show that this character is in control of himself. Mr. Butler struggles with his singing sometimes but barrels through and forces the notes to have a more primal intensity than would be expected. Emmy Rossum as "Christine" sings wonderfully. Hers is the best voice in the movie. Patrick Wilson as "Rauol" carries his part and his songs well. He doesn't force the notes like Butler but has a very fluid delivery that puts you at ease. All in all, this is a very good attempt to film the stage version of the Phantom. If you've seen the stage show, then you pretty much seen this movie but the sets, costumes and lavish attention to detail and the cast more than make up for the repetition of multiple viewings.

One minor annoyance for me was when the Phantom was unmasked, his bad side in the light made him look like Gerard Depardieu was singing as the Phantom.