If you are familiar in the field of horror, you know Dario Argento is more than just the name of some director. He's a legend in the genre and is responsible for a large number of true classics like Profondo Rosso and Suspiria. When you see his version of "Phantom of the Opera" , you wouldn't give him this honor, actually. I'm sure most people know the story by Gaston Leroux so there's no need to summarize the plot. This version of Dario follows the story rather well but if you don't know it yet I recommend to see the original Lon Chaney film instead (1925) Also the Terrence Fisher version from the sixties will give you more satisfaction. The phantom is played by Julian Sands. A forgotten actor who once became famous for his roles in Arachnophobia and the very bad film Boxing Helena. I don't know why I refer to him as 'the Phantom' actually, cause his face is always showing. Without scars, without mutilation ...pretty lame phantom if you ask me. His muse is played by Dario Argento's daughter Asia. Always a pleasure to admire her beautiful face, but if that's the only thing to admire about a movie...well then there's something wrong. Argento has made "Sleepless" since this film and looked more like his previous work. He's currently working on "the Card Dealer" and this too seems real nice. So, we'll forgive him this mistake. My humble opinion: 3/10
Review of The Phantom of the Opera
