History

• "The Phantom of the Opera film" (2004) is based on the musical of the same name, which was written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Charles Har. The popular musical was based on the novel, also of the same name, by Gaston Leroux. First published as a series in Le Gaulois, a French publication, the book has been the inspiration for many productions, and the musical version has been the longest-running Broadway show in history.
  
  

Significance

• Because of the success and popularity of the Broadway version of "The Phantom of the Opera," the film version had significant pressure to stand as an example of musical and production value. As such, the film's stars received significant vocal training and the voice of diva Carlotta was dubbed by opera singer Margaret Preece.
  
  

Features

• "The Phantom of the Opera" film features actress Emmy Rossum in the lead role as Christine Daae. Although several other actresses were considered for the role, reportedly including Katie Holmes and Anne Hathaway, Rossum was cast after a lengthy search. She was only 17 years old at the time of filming. The film also features Patrick Wilson as Raoul and Gerard Butler in the title role.
  
  

Effects

• Because of the spectacular nature of "The Phantom of the Opera" story, the film used many special effects. The film features carefully choreographed sword fights, audio dubbing and a visually-enhanced version of the Phantom's subterranean lair. The Phantom's disfigured face was enhanced for the film version, as the format allowed more close-ups than the stage version.
  
  

Considerations

• The film version of "The Phantom of the Opera" received considerable critical acclaim. It won three 2005 Academy Awards, for Art Direction, Cinematography and Original Song. Emmy Rossum won several awards for her performance, including Female Breakthrough Performance from the National Board of Review.
  
  

Theories/Speculation

• Although the film received considerable acclaim, many critics questioned the depth of the adaptation. The film was visually stunning, they said, but lacked a greater sense of romance, danger or urgency. The vocal talents of the actors came into question, as well, leading to speculation about casting processes and political pressures.