The Phantom of the Opera Review

It's strange to think that, up until now, only two of Andrew Lloyd Webber's stage musicals have ever found their way onto the silver screen. But with Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita both earning decent reviews, can the composer score a hat-trick with this adaptation of his most successful work to date? Directed with a flourish by Joel Schumacher, the film opens in Paris in 1919 as various bits and bobs are being auctioned off at a derelict opera house. But soon colour sweeps through the frame and we're transported back almost fifty years to a time when the auditorium was alive with song and the feared Phantom (Gerard Butler) stalked the building.

Right from the beginning, it's fairly easy to understand that if you like Lloyd Webber musicals you'll love Phantom Of The Opera. Lavishly bought to life, this is an eye-popping experience that captures the show on a truly grand scale. Gerard Butler is surprisingly good as the deformed Phantom, displaying a hitherto unknown talent for the theatrical while young Emmy Rossum, who plays the object for his affection Christine, is surely destined for great things. Schumacher too seems to enjoy the change of pace from his recent films such as Phone Booth, embracing the film's opulence with enthusiasm and zeal. However for people who would rather have teeth pulled than sit though a Lloyd Webber play, this movie will be a tough old experience as the naturally extravagant composer's work is stretched and embellished upon. And, clocking in just under two hours and twenty minutes, you'd be well advised to take a cushion to ease your numb backside.