For some reason, I was convinced PoTP was set in outer space. Star Trek meets Phantom of the Opera, if you will. ⚠️Mild spoilers afoot⚠️
In a way, I'm glad I was ridiculously mistaken. I felt the full shocking impact of a rockstar-biopic-style narrative turned '70s Faust fever dream. The rooftop scene was like waking up in a nightmare: the metaphor coming horribly to life.
Winslow is a great Erik/Phantom incarnation. As a writer, I'm in sympathy with him for being unable to realise his masterpiece because it's "too long" and the entertainment world doesn't care. And horrible adaptations ARE enough to drive one to notoriety, you go, Winslow. Terrible tragedy that he wasn't allowed access to Erik's gunpowder stash, he deserved it.
Beef is probably the most dramatic La Carlotta parallel to exist, and that's saying something. What in the Santa-looking heck was he wearing as a coat during his "I'm outta here" scene? Somebody Super Like You is absolutely delightful - until he started performing, that is.
Phoenix has a stunning voice and a certain something that just screams superstar.
I'm less impressed by Swan. I'm not acquainted to Paul Williams' works, so I'm speaking solely without context about his background. Personally, I don't think he has the devilish, vampiric quality I'd have liked to see in that role. That's the only letdown in the film, honestly.
Rambles about other POTO adaptations here!