It's getting a little late in the game, but if Phantom of the Opera is still playing at a theater near you, then I highly recommend shelling out the $8 for admission. Phantom is the film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's wildly successful musical. There are some changes from the stage version, but for the most part, fans of the stage show will get exactly what they are looking for. Most of the cast members are actually stage actors with several musicals to their credit. Gerard Bulter gives a passionate performace as the Phantom. 18 year-old Emmy Rossum, a veteran of the Met, is very believable in the role of Christine, the Phantom's young protege. Due to her obvious youth, she is in many ways better cast than the great Sara Brightman was in the original stage cast. Minnie Driver also adds a lot to this film in the role of the diva, Carlotta.
Some may find fault with the storyline. There's no denying that it is rather incredible. But, it's important to remember that what you are really watching is a musical play that has been taken to the screen. The music is fabulous, and the film is a visual spectacle. It is well worth the price of admission.
