.the princess portal.

This has got to be one of the most visually stunning movies ever made, even though it is a musical I find it more a feast for the eyes than for the ears (though the score is no less lovely for it.) Last night I watched the Joel Schumacher version of the film, I haven’t seen it before, though I’ve seen other adaptions, and it was breathtaking

The Phantom has always caught me as a sort of twisted version of Beauty and the Beast, one where the story did not quite go to plan. It is romantic, tragic and a little frightening all at once which forms a powerful combination. I love Christine’s character, she is so innocent and seems trapped by the scenario but in the end you see that she really is the one with the power, the choice of love or hate.

I could watch this film for the sets and costumes alone, they are so elegant and detailed and decadent. The magnificent Opera house with its gilt nymphs and angels, the stage as it transforms from garden bower to rococo chamber to firey tower. The Phantom’s lair is intriguing with its mirrors and candelabras and that gorgeous swan bed, but most of all I love the dressing room used by Christine and Carlotta. The scene where Christine opens the door and the room is full of pink roses, on every available surface makes me sigh with joy. I adore the little opera chapel too. This movie makes me want to fill my room with candles!