My favorite Musical/Play turned movie.

My favorite musical/play turned movie.

Recently I watched the “Phantom of the Opera”, these were some of my thoughts. The “Phantom of The Opera” has been a classic Broadway production for many years. Over the decades, its superb music and acting have filled theaters from New York to London. It has since been made into a motion picture of the same title. The film is an excellent example of a movie musical in many ways. The use of cinematography increases the already moving effect of the music. The cast, music, and cinematography combine to make “The Phantom of The Opera” a masterpiece that expands upon the already moving score, by adding the visual effects of cinema.

One way the “Phantom of The Opera” stands out, as a musical, is how it incorporates visual acting to accentuate the music. Songs such as “Music of The Night” and “All I Ask of You” have more emotional impact when accompanied by good video and acting. The acting in the Phantom greatly enhanced the musical in general. It was accurately portrayed to the original storyline, and didn’t distract from the tone of the music. Although the movie actors did not have the superior vocal abilities of those in the actual Broadway play, the vocals were satisfactory. Looks and style were chosen over vocal talent, for the lead roles, most likely.

Another portion of the musical, which is notable, is the cinematography. The movie is shot quite well, without distracting moves or angles. The lighting and mood of a scene accentuates the music rather well. From the dreary darkness of the phantom’s lair, to the sprawling ballrooms and masquerades, the music’s surroundings are done with great care. The plot line was easy to follow and riveting. It is the story of a disfigured boy who becomes a dark, murderous phantom of the opera house. Then, upon the arrivial of beautiful new soprano, he begins to wreak havoc in the theater. The mysterious, hidden nature of the story, adds depth to the plot. It left me thinking all the while, “what will happen next?” There were no slow moments of monologue or confusing twists, and the story was captivating. All in all, the movie aspect of the “Phantom of The Opera” was quite excellent.

But the most important part of this “Musical” is the music. The one thing that makes this play and movie a classic is the emotionally moving and epic songs that it entails. Many different musical styles are used. From the slow thoughtful interlude to the epic full orchestral symphonies, every bit of music is breathtakingly excellent. Also, the happy jovial sounds of “Masquerade” and “Prima Donna” add some joy to the otherwise melancholy sonatas of the phantom. The feeling of “grandeur” is felt throughout the movie’s music. The full orchestral sounds of many of the sounds give an epic feel to the words. The full sound and strong tenor of “The Music of The Night” make it my favorite song in the film. The music also creates a very intimate feel at one moment, and then transitions to an epic symphony in the next. It is this technique, which I find to be a superior way of communicating feeling and thought to an audience. There are many other aspects of the music in “The Phantom of The Opera” that make it an excellent movie, but it must be admitted that the music at the actual play, is far superior to that of the movie.

Everyone enjoys a good story. Add a little music and it’s even better. “The Phantom of The Opera” does this quite well. It employs a solid plot, good acting, and superiorly written score. The Broadway play may be better, but if you simply want to watch a good musical from the comfort of your couch, this is quite acceptable. The music in the movie makes everything else work. The rest of the movie revolves around it. It is a movie that will take you in with spellbinding song, and spectacular visual accompaniment. “The Phantom Of The Opera” is an excellent musical that will be watched and listened to for years to come.