The Phantom of the Opera (2004)

REVIEW
Every once in a while, you just have to say, "The critics be damned!" This is one of those times. The long-running Broadway and West End musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber finally hits the big screen, and it was promptly greeted by reviews so scathing you'd think Adam Sandler was playing the Devil's son. But we're here to say that this sumptuous screen adaptation from director Schumacher is getting a bum rap. While fans of Steven Seagal and Mr. Sandler probably won't find much enjoyment in it, fans of the show or musicals in general should especially take notice. This is arguably better than the stage version, cutting redundant musical numbers, filling in plot holes, and conveying a romanticism the show could only dream about. Rossum is in terrific voice as Christine, a young opera singer who takes over for the company's diva when a series of strange events begin to occur. The golden-voiced Butler is the Phantom, the madman behind the madness, who has served as unseen mentor to Christine and has fallen in love with her from afar. The film is a gorgeous tapestry of sound, costume and spectacle, engagingly acted by a splendid ensemble, brilliantly orchestrated and feverishly told. One could complain that subtle it's not, but it's the lavishness -- true to the roots of 19th-century opera -- that makes it soar. Wilson is a dashing young lead blessed with a smashing voice, and his scenes with Rossum -- as are hers with Butler -- are a treat for the ears and eyes. Cynics may have a good time tearing this to shreds, but come to it with open arms and it will return a big, warming, satisfying embrace.