...::: Small World :::...

When they hear the title "Phantom Of The Opera", most people believe they are dealing with a common tear-jerker. Those who have heard of this most probably know the 2004 film version. Despite this version being the most expensive one (it is regarded as the most expensive independent film in history), it isn't as well-known as a blockbuster is. Gaston Leroux's novel has been adapted into various plays on Broadway and films, the most recent being this 2004 film.

The story takes place at the Opera Populaire in Paris in the 1870's. Christine Daae, the daughter of a famous deceased violin player, is assigned as the lead soprano in an opera because the star, Carlotta, refuses to sing. We are informed that the Phantom is the cause of this, setting up traps in the Opera House in order to determine the owners to give Christine a chance. He had secretly been teaching her how to sing ever since she was brought to the Opera House and had fallen in love with her. Things become complicated when Christine's childhood sweetheart, Raoul, visits the Opera House and recognizes her, confessing his love to her and defying the Phantom, who is determined to do whatever it takes to get his precious Angel of Music back.

Despite sounding common, the plot is intricate and the details are well taken care of; from the sets to the make-up and costumes of the actors, everything looks real. Considering the fact that the opera house was really set on fire for one of the scenes, the authenticity can't be doubted. Another scene would be the transition from the present to the past, at the beginning of the film –the present is shown in black and white and transcends to the past in a glorious boom of color and music: the now abandoned Opera Populaire comes to life to tell its story.

If this review hasn't convinced you to see the film up to this point, try listening to two of the tracks from its soundtrack: "The Music Of The Night" and "The Phantom Of The Opera". You'll be drawn in from the first notes. "Let your mind start a journey through a strange new world" is what the Phantom sings to Christine at a climatic moment during the film and you can feel the strength of Gerard Butler's voice at any moment of the song. Most actors (except Minnie Driver) sung the songs themselves and trained for this performance for more than half a year, which shows the effort put into this picture. Also keep in mind that Emmy Rossum (who plays Christine) was 16 at the time the film was shot.
Since "The Phantom of the Opera" is a musical, music is a crucial element. From the opening song to the ending credits, it captivates you and somehow snatches you away from your comfortable couch, making you feel the same way the characters do and accelerating your heart beats during the climatic moments.

In the end, I would recommend this film to musical lovers and not only. It appeals to those who have time to view a love story in a different setting, from a different perspective. If you don't like musicals, this film will make you love them. Give it a chance and I promise you you won't regret it. If you were put off by the low rating and anonymousness, remember this: well-known films are not necessarily good ones and less-known films might not be as bad as you think.