Gerad Butler as the Phantom

Sublime, suave, fully masculine, and très romantique Gerard Butler is a Phantom no woman would deny. This Phantom has grown up in the great romance called Opera, and it is in there that he finds his true love, Christine. He first assumes the form of an angelic tutor, but soon makes it clear that he is a man willing to woo and wed her. From the dreamy lagoon ride, to the opulent bedroom awaiting his fair Christine, the Phantom here is strong but gentle. Butler’s voice and acting are superb in this film, and he deserves credit for the richness of his interpretation.

Emmy Rossum is the perfect Christine for Butler’s Phantom.. She has such a sweet innocence, but at the same time she knows she is beautiful and musically gifted. Watch how effortlessly Christine reaches her high notes, and the smile of satisfaction on her lips at the end of ‘Think of Me’. She also gives herself over to the Phantom’s romantic advances, while keeping Raoul beguiled as well. This is the only Christine you can cheer for that sort of thing, since you know she desires both men equally.

Though Phantom loyalist would be loath to admit it, even Raoul (Patrick Wilson) is a solid presence, and his voice is rich and full of emotion. You can’t help but admire his acting skills, and it is refreshing to see a Raoul that can use a sword. Minnie Driver plays the most wonderful Carlotta you’ll see anywhere, coming of as a brassy, funny, sassy woman, bravo! The rest of the cast is just as sterling, and if this film doesn’t sweep the Oscars, something isn’t right in the world.

The cinematography in this film is breathtaking. From the grainy but romantic opening scene, to the explosion of vitality and sumptuous color when the chandelier rises, to the final scene nothing is left to chance. There are compelling and warm browns, romantic and dreamy blues, shades of pink and white that laugh with joy, and plenty of red passion and golden exaltation.

The direction here is razor shop with absolutely no dead time or wasted shots, something of an anomaly these days. The camera angles are perfect, making the viewer feel up close to the action. The cast is strong and vibrant, and even Madame Carlotta, the delicious villainess of the stage is much more human here. Overall, a delightful cast and wonderful film, richly deserving all the kudos it gets.

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