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Although movies of musicals usually go too far in availing themselves of the advantage they have over the limitations of the stage, this production, which is a bit of an epic even when staged ( the U.S. touring company needed 20 semi-trailers), this production seems nicely fitted to the operatic qualities of the music. The voices are easily as good as most of the ones in the stage companies and ,with the exception of the choice of Minnie Driver as the diva for which role she is far too young and petite, it is well cast, avoiding the casting of "stars" over voices, e.g. West Side Story, My Fair Lady. We actually bought it as a gift, having seen the staged version three times.
Too much of what is produced these days is fake. Although this version of the classic is about ten years old, you can see the lack of true acting. Just because a man wears a mask doesn't mean he can't show character. Even the Long Ranger showed character, with a rich voice and eye expressions. Once Antonio Banderas did a scene from the Phantom, and he was highly impressive. The rest of the characters in this version follow suit, lacking in distinctive qualities found in abundance with works from decades past. The scenes were, however, very rich and compelling. We just need better talent, that's all. The Phantom of the Opera has been around for probably a century. Lon Chaney did it in B&W, but it can't compare to all the latest techniques of cinematography. It's a shame that most newer type movies exploit horrendous and climatic effects rather than try to find true acting ability to carry our attention. All in all, I give this a mediocre grade in the hopes that the musical genius of Andrew Lloyd Webber finds true talent one day. For it does show longevity of masterful music.Read full review
Gerard Butler actually sings in this production of the Phantom and he sings so well! To me the love story is more moving with Butler as the Phantom. Emmy Rossum is a beautiful Christine! Patrick Wilson is another good looking actor and the future husband of Christine. The scenes in and around and below the Opera House (Paris) amazing. Costumes and actors were spectacular! I loved the Masquerade scene and Butlers costume! If you are a Phantom fan, you are in for a treat with this production! Very entertaining and such a good value! The equivalent to front rows seats in any theatre!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
it was in great shape I enjoyed it much. The music was great, and very colorful exciting. Good acting. Excellent casting
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Amazing, exquisite, enchanting! Those are some of the words that come to mind when thinking of this rendition of the spectacular play (which I have seen 5 times). Emmy Rossum was born to play this role. Her voice is pure and lovely. Gerard Butler is just......WOW! Minnie Driver took the role of Carlotta by storm, excellent performance. What a cast!!! You will never see anything like this. The music, the drama, the action, the heartbreak, the entire package in one movie. Andrew Lloyd Webber is a genius!
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