Title: The Phantom of the Opera
Directed by: Rupert Julian
Starring: Lon Chaney, Mary Philbin and Norman Kerry
Running time: 78-114 minutes, Unrated
Image Entertainment has released the original 1925 version and two 1929 re-release versions of Lon Chaney’s most memorable performance in The Phantom of the Opera on Blu-ray. The story of Erik, the disfigured “Phantom” that lives underneath the Paris Opera house and whom has a fixation on the beautiful and talented new opera singer Christine.
The 1925 version is the original 6 millimeter with a piano score by Frederick Hodges. This version is longer than the 1929 reissues, and contains a lackluster happy ending.
There were two versions re-released in 1929 to generate revenue alongside the new “talkie” films, which they edited the original film, re-shot some scenes and added audio tracks of the opera singers. The first reissue presented at 20 frames per second features an orchestral score composed by Gabriel Thibaudeau. This version features the technicolor “Bal Masque” sequence, which was beautifully preserved. Dr Jon Mirsalis delivers a very informative commentary to accompany this track.
The other 1929 reissue version is presented at 24 frames per second and was scored by the Alloy Orchestra plus Gaylord Carter’s Famous Theatre Organ. This version also includes the Technicolor Bal Masque sequence.
The only problem I have with the film is the story itself. Christine’s fiancee Raul goes to her after she gets her chance to be the star and tells her “you’ve realized your dream, now we can get married.” He’s basically telling her that now she had her chance to fulfill her dream as a singer, she can now give it up so they can get married, knock her up and throw her in the kitchen. What the hell is that all about? Then the Phantom does all he can to make sure she can keep being the star and keep singing, and she treats him like an a-hole because he’s fugly. So what? A lot of people in the entertainment industry are in two-bagger relationships. However, the Phantom is a bit possessive, so I understand her hesitation. Then the villagers beat him to death and throw him in the Seine. I guess as long as the ugly guy dies, all is well.
Silent films are not for everyone; but there’s the nostalgia factor that makes it wonderful. They were a true art form when the actors relied on facial expression and body movement in order to tell the story. They didn’t pull a Keanu or Costner by ruining a scene or entire film with bad accents.
Total Rating: A
Reviewed by: JM Willis
