Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Though vastly under-looked and over-scrutinized by critics and longtime enthusiasts of the original play, with all comparisons aside I personally feel that 'The Phantom Of The Opera' is one of the greatest cinematic experiences ever, and musically it is absolutely breathtaking. This is the type of film I always dreamed of being made. It's a beautiful, tragic tale of love, madness and seduction all rolled up into one. Thus, it is a romantic Gothic horror story unlike anything I've seen done before it and I, anyway, think that it is a masterpiece (and perhaps, even, a future classic?). If you wish to hear the entire production, as not to miss anything, you'd be better off buying the two-disc deluxe edition, but if you simply want to hear the best tracks from the movie, this collection of highlights does just that. Of course, if you cherish the music as much as I do you might as well buy them both. The melodies/lyrics in this soundtrack emit many different emotions, such as joyous confessions of love during "All I Ask Of You" that quickly changes into sadness as the Phantom, hurt and betrayed, sings the reprised version full of heartache and rage. On the other hand, "The Phantom Of The Opera" sends chills throughout my body as the orchestra, hauntingly beautiful organ and electric guitar play feverishly to the Phantom saying "sing, my angel of music" in a demanding yet hypnotizing tone while Christine obeys, singing higher and higher as if in some kind of trance. "The Music Of The Night" is another favorite of mine, along with "Prima Donna", "Masquerade", "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again", and "The Point Of No Return". I was also pleasantly surprised to enjoy the brand new studio track written specifically for the closing credits, "Learn To Be Lonely", which is sung by Minnie Driver who plays the hilarious opera diva, Carlotta. I only wish it were longer... The lovely Emmy Rossum may be no Sarah Brightman but I think she lived up to the expectations Sarah left us with rather well (and, remember, she was only 17 during filming). She's able to be both a lustful temptress as well as sweet and innocent when needed. As for Gerard Butler, he may not have the world's greatest voice but, to me, his dark and rugged style fits his imperfect character perfectly. Now, for a complete turn around, I think most will agree with me when I say that Patrick Wilson (Raoul) has the most gorgeous voice of them all. But what did you expect? He's a 'pretty boy'. 'The Phantom Of The Opera' may still be out in theaters but I am already waiting with bated breath for the DVD to become available. Until then I at least have the soundtrack to replay certain scenes in my mind. The only gripe I have is, by listening to this, it makes me want to see the movie every time I do...