I've been an IMDb user for a few years now, but this title is the reason for which I write my first review here. This first review, as well as the 10 stars I give, I hope these will somehow (highest rated search, etc) attract at least one more person to this title, which is essentially flawless.It's hard to review a title which is not really a movie. It combines the best of the cinema, theater and opera. The cinema, as after all it's still a movie. Secondly, as it's an opera, the actors and the crew perform live and you get most of their talent this way. The combining element is the emotion which you do not see without the close-ups in the traditional theater. The actors' play is simply excellent. Scenes depicting relationships between the main characters are played by them so perfectly, that simply cause tears in eyes (vide the final one of the first part).It's just incredible, that this masterpiece remains so little-known.

My 'Phantom of the Opera' experience has now completed its tour. I have heard all the music, and have some of the recordings. I have seen the 1925 silent movie version with Lon Chaney, I have seen the 2004 movie version with current movie stars, and with this viewing I have seen the premier stage production, albeit on film. Each one of them is good in its own experience.But musicals, on stage, are unique in their own way, and this one, at the Royal Albert Hall, has to be the best if you are forced to put them in order. All the singers are trained operatic singers and in general are clearly more accomplished than what you will find in movie versions.The musical is called 'Phantom' for a reason, and in the title role is Ramin Karimloo (from Iran) as The Phantom. He plays the role, and sings, marvelously. The object of his affection is Sierra Boggess (from USA) as Christine. And her suitor is Hadley Fraser (British) as Raoul. Not to be overlooked is Wendy Ferguson as Carlotta and she performs that role marvelously also.The live production included an addendum after the final curtain, honoring cast members over the years, including most of the original cast. Plus some performances. That is also included in the film.Saw it via Netflix streaming video, in hi-def and surround sound. A really fine viewing experience.

The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall was a treat for the eyes and ears, a magnificent production starring Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess, who played opposite one another in the Phantom sequel "Love Never Dies." They not only sang beautifully but were emotional and passionate in their portrayals.The stars were surrounded by a top-notch cast which included Hadley Fraser, Wendy Ferguson, Barry James, Gareth Snook, Liz Robertson, and Wynne Evans.The role of the Phantom has evolved over the years, in one sense influenced by the film starring Gerard Butler. A friend of mine played the role on stage for many years in Germany. When he tried to return to the role some time later, he was told he was not "the Phantom type." This was the first he'd heard of it. Though he's a good-looking man, he's not tall, he's not particularly young, and his portrayal probably lacked the element of overt sex that was suddenly a requirement.At the end of the show, four Phantoms were brought out on stage. The only one I really knew was Colm Wilkinson. There was a young man on the end, very handsome, and I thought, "If this guy is playing the Phantom, who the heck is playing Raoul?" I mean, I would have taken off with this guy in a second. I should add that Michael Crawford made an appearance but was unable to sing anything but the last note of Music of the Night, which was done by the ensemble, because he is also performing Wizard of Oz and had to save his voice.We come now to the music itself. To be fair, Lloyd Webber has written some glorious tunes, no question. He's ripped off some good ones as well. I suggest you check out youtube and put Andrew Lloyd Webber Plagarist in the search box and listen to the first video that comes up. You'll be astonished. Who knew he listened to so much Pink Floyd.

This wasn't the best rendition of the venerable opera that I've seen but for a stage to video presentation, it's pretty good. While obviously nothing beats being there in person, watching on a big screen TV has it's advantages as well. For instance, different angles, views, zoom ins, zoom outs, no one talking behind or around you, the list goes on.The sets are beautifully done and costumes are top notch. While no Davis Gaines, Ramin Karimloo does a fine job as the Phantom. Sierra Boggess seems a bit wooden as Christine but I may be a bit jaded by previous castings. Hadley Fraser in my opinion did not come across as a good Raoul. He appeared pompous and overbearing, not someone who would charm Christine.The above being said, the overall performances by the cast were enjoyable but a bit underwhelming for a production staged in the Royal Albert Hall.