I've been reading the critic's reviews of the film version of Phantom of the Opera, which I just got home from seeing, and I have to say this: Don't listen to a word they say. I especially say that after reading the New York Times review that completely tore it apart. These film critics have no appreciation for music. The film was beautiful.

Don't get me wrong...it's not perfect. I don't think many productions are perfect. However, it does a great job of telling this story. It's visually stunning. I was listening to NPR a little over a week ago to a program that was reviewing movies of the season, including Phantom, and said that the film was directed so poorly. He claimed that Joel Schumacher did nothing to make the film stand out from the stage production. That guy probably went into the film with that opinion and wouldn't open his eyes to actually see his own opinion destroyed.

To be honest, after Mr. Schumacher single handedly destroyed the Batman franchise with his direction, I haven't been a fan of his work. This movie makes up for that. I no longer think so poorly of Joel anymore. So, that's good. Anyway though, I recommend the film. It flows very nicely, and contrary to what the critics say, you do leave the theater humming the music. I'm singing it in my head right now. I give Phantom of the Opera 4 out of 5 brownies.

Luv,

Jess