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Phantom Of The Opera | Year: 1943 Classification: Horror Directed: - Arthur Lubin Actors/Actresses: - Julian Sands A Beautiful Film I saw the 1943 version of "The Phantom of the Opera" before I read the book and (last) saw the 1925 version. I have to admit that it was not like the book at all, but the Lon Chaney version was a little. Claude Rains was very convincing as the tormented and lovesick Phantom, and was always more interesting than Lon Chaney. But Claude Rains was not given very much screen time, except near the beginning and end of the film. The sets were fabulous. Nelson Eddy and Edgar Barrier were almost constantly trying to win over Christine, and even though these scenes were funny, I've noticed that they can very easily become distractions that seem designed only to de-emphasize Claude Rains, which only hurts the film. Susanna Foster and Nelson Eddy sang a lot, and while these numbers were very nice and a joy to listen to, they were the only time Nelson Eddy really got a chance to shine, which is unfortunate. However, Susanna Foster fared well throughout the entire film. I would not recommend this film to anyone who doesn't like opera, or to anyone who wants to see a lot of the Phantom. Too much opera, not enough Phantom - BUT STILL GREAT! Lavish, colorful, extravagant 1943 remake of the 1925 Lon Chaney classic is a visual treat. Released in bright technicolor, and featuring a splendid all-star cast, PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is a wonderful addition to any old Horror Fan's collection. As I already mentioned, the film is sporadically hindered by an overabudance of Opera Sequences, and don't get me wrong. The music is soaring and awe-inspiring, if a little silly at times. But, that's how it's supposed to be. Enter the excellent performance as always of Claude Rains portraying composer Erique Claudin, who lives in poverty and is disabled by arthritis pains, who falls for a young soprano Christine DuBois (Susanna Foster, in a magnificent performance), who would later find herself within the charms of baritone Nelson Eddy and Police Inspector Edgar Barrier. When Claudin goes to publish his music, a tragic misunderstanding occurs, and Claudin is splashed by acid. He prowls the sewers and haunts the Paris Opera House to enhance the singing career of young Foster. Therein is the tale. PHANTOM OF THE OPERA may have its' weaknesses, but more strengths. It has music, great acting, great cast, comedy, moments of suspense, and is absolutely unforgettable. DVD includes a fascinating documentary "Opera Ghost: The Phantom Unmasked" by Scott MacQueen, who also narrates the feature commentary. So buy the DVD, reserve your Box Five seats and enjoy PHANTOM OF THE OPERA - but watch out for the chandelier! Horror fans will be disappointed This film is more about the opera and the courting of an opera singer by two suitors than a deranged murderer running amok in the hidden chambers of the Paris Opera House. A great deal of screen time is devoted to the pursuit of the lovely Mademoiselle Dubois by a baritone and a Paris detective as both men are comically inept in trying to win the woman's favors. Claude Rains' phantom is a poignant figure, his madness notwithstanding, and he also has designs on the opera star and spirits her away to the catacombs under the building to possess her forever and have her sing the concerto he composed especially for her. The lush color and sets give the production a professional and polished look but the movie lacks suspense and thrills and is strictly for aficionados of the opera. Buy Phantom Of The Opera at Amazon.com Buy posters at Allposters.com Jamster - the latest ringtones for your phone!  Search with Walhello on the Internet on Phantom Of The Opera Search with the Priority Search Engine on Phantom Of The Opera This page in other languages: Suomeksi | Nederlands | Deutsch
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