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Brian De Palma's take on the Phantom of the Opera is a unique view into the mindset of filmmakers of the seventies. When rock operas such as the Who's Tommy and Jesus Christ Superstar were all the rage; De Palma gave film-goers a treat that is a mix of Phantom of the Opera, Faust, and The Picture of Dorian Grey. This cult classic, released in 1974, has great songs by Paul Williams that are put to use in stage performances rather than having characters burst into song when the mood hits them. That makes Phantom of the Paradise a unique rock opera musical feast for the eyes and ears. When viewed with the proper mindset, i.e. expect campy humor, staged atrocities and eclectic music forms, and you will enjoy this take on the classic boy meets girl, boy sells his soul to the devil to become a pop star and get the girl, boy loses girl and his life. It's not a spoiler such is the tale in any adaptation of the Phantom. This incarnation is by far my personal favorite because it has qualities that appeal to rock fans of any era. This film was ahead of its time, so its time is now!Read full review
I cannot thank Mr. De Palma and Mr. Williams enough for concocting this gloriously lurid Rock Rework of "The Phantom of the Opera"! That being said, the DVD of this film is very satisfying in it's Blood Red color and detail, and in its Deep Bass and Clear Trebles. This film was released in 1974, long before digital tech. The technology used to make this wonderful bit of Glam Gore seemed very high-tech for its time. The long-lost Synth Lab from the LA Record Plant seemed like Dr. Frankenstein's plan for his personal music room, and the sounds that arose from it fascinate me to this day. I won't reveal too much of the plot, but suffice it to say that composer Winslow Leach's Magnum Opus - a Rock Contata! - is stolen by Swan (performed with much zeal by Paul Williams, the actual composer of this magnificent score). The battle that ensues struggles for the careers, lives and even souls of those engaged in the battle. I cannot overstress the value of this film to the History of Rock. "Phantom of the Paradise" is rife with the ghosts of Rock Past! The many faces of Rock rise up, and fade out with almost whimsical frequency. This film must receive my highest recommendations. This film contains sexual references, drug use and lethal and bloody violence. Naturally. Once more, I must say that I cannot thank Mr. De Palma and Mr. Williams enough for concocting this gloriously lurid Rock Rework of "The Phantom of the Opera"!Read full review
Like any real gem that is hard to find unless you know where to look and what you are looking for; "Phantom of the Paradise" is a rock-and-roll cult masterpiece; in the fashion of, "Phantom of the Opera". Before we had in home video the only way to see a film over again was to go back to the theater. When this film was released I saw it 4 times!!! A cult classic by, Brian De Palma- "Phantom of the Paradise" (1974), belongs right along side - Stanley Kubrick's- A clockwork Orange, Ridley Scott's- Blade Runner (1982), Hal Ashby's- Harold and Maude (1971), Ken Russell's- Tommy (1975), Rob Reiner's- This is Spinal Tap (1984). Do we see the pattern of great directors or is it just me. I watched this film with my 16 year old daughter, who is aspiring to be an actress, and she said it was one of the most artistic films she ever saw, and just had to have the soundtrack, to go along with her others like "Rent" and "Phantom of the Opera". If you want proof, web search Brian De Palma, Paul Williams, and Jessica Harper; and you will see just how much raw talent went into this film 30+ years ago. Phantom of the Paradise like all the cult classics mentioned is a must have film for any collector. As for the plot being dumb, that could be said of most cult films. It is the theatrical art of the films more than the plot that makes them great.Read full review
This movie contains some of the best music written and produced for a musical. Paul Williams is a journeyman composer and lyricist. This movie was panned by the critics, but loved by his fans. It has a huge cult fan following rivaling the rocky horror picture show. Just for a change, try something different and tell the critics to go f%#ck themselves. This is great stuff. Try his other musical, bugsy malone, it will amaze you. many of the singers played in both. ps: plus jessica harper is just stone cold HOT...................... whew, one of the most underrated smart hotties along with Emma Peel ( Diana Rig), And inspector Tennison, ( Helen Mirren) buy this you will not regret it.
Brian de Palma is an acquired taste, but easy to get hooked. This horror fantasy tickled my funny bone and was worth watching several times for all the fine details.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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