The Phantom of the Opera

[Kobolos]

From the main page:

Joel Schumacher Talks Phantom of the Opera
Friday, March 7, 2003 6:24 CST

The Chicago Sun-Times talked to director Joel Schumacher who addressed rumors that Antonio Banderas is still a frontrunner for Phantom of the Opera. "Antonio is not doing this version," Schumacher said, "I haven't cast yet, but I want to go younger. Maybe Antonio was part of a past project. He was in 'Evita' and Andrew loves him, but he's not my Phantom."

Schumacher is currently prepping the project and thinking about casting. "Not Leo. He's a little young for Phantom, but someone young. The hard thing is that the leads have to sing and act. The other interesting element is you don't see the face under the Phantom mask. He's always in makeup. So, I could cast anyone."

As for the female lead, Schumacher says he's looking for "a beautiful young lady who can sing." The director hopes to have the film out by next Christmas.

Now, let me get this straight...you think Antonio is too old, but then go right back and say "He's always in makeup. So, I could cast anyone..." There is going to be nipples on the Phantom suit, I can feel it....

Bit of history: Sir Lloyd Webber promised the part to Michael Crawford YEARS ago. From the sounds of this, Joel is taking over the show...and it's going to be a bigger mess than WB was planning. Does no one read the material? The Phantom WAS older than Christine...To heck with Webber ans Schumacher, why hasn't anyone optioned Susan Kay's book "Phantom" that's the material that needs to be made...

[maxwelldemon]

this is terrible news for all those of us who wanted michael crawford back as the phantom.

but how about charlotte church for christine? if she can act, that is...

damn schumacher! first you ruin one of my favorite super heroes! now one of my favorite musicals!

[George Bushs 18th cousin]

good call on Charolette Church!

Anyway, knowing Shumacher Arnold will be the Phantom and Christine will be Alicia Silverstone

Phantom: Hey Christine! Chill! (pULLS out his ice gun) YOU WILL NEVER DEFEAT THE POWER OF MY NIPPLE CLAD SUIT!

[KayTang999]

Someone younger huh???

Who do you guys think would be prefect Phantom and Christine?

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by KayTang999
Someone younger huh???

Who do you guys think would be prefect Phantom and Christine?

I think most everyone will agree Michael Crawford is the only perfect Erik/Phantom. He won that right in my eyes. If you are the director and hire an actor whose voice can't mimic the voice of an angel and bring the girl to your sway, then Raoul is the hero of the film and you've blown it. It's as simple as this. They will be under make-up the entire time, pull a friggin Darth Vader if you must and dub Crawford's voice (like they did in Nightmare before Christmas as well with Chris Sarandon and Danny Elfman). You have a built in audience from the show and with Crawford, they are INSANE to think B-level actors like Antonio (who was formally attached) could bring in more box office.

(and yes, I will personally hurt the first person that brings up Crawford's "Condorman" :) )


I think Charlotte Church is a good pic as well. Voices are so pivital in these roles...it can't be like Moulin Rouge where you leave saying "wow, they really suprised me that they can sing" you HAVE to go in believing these people are at this Opera House through destiny. Christine to be tutored to become even greater than her raw talent can provide and for Erik to be so near diety that his deformation doesn't frighten her away.

this entire project just keeps breaking my heart, and has done so for over ten years now. :(

[sharon]

I have always thought that Michael Crawford should play the Phantom, because in reality the character is really kind of ageless. I read all the forums and post what I think I also think Michael Ball should be Raoul. But all of our opinions seem to be for nothing. I have also suggested that If JS can't use MC for whatever reason he should opt for Michael Ball in the lead. For those of us who know his work, this is the perfect option. He can sing all the songs with great emotion. He is a favorite of ALW he has a terrific fan following in UK and a growing one in this country . He is handsome. Even though the character is always in full makeup. What more could Schumacher want. Someone younger than AB and MC who can pull off the role based on his various duets with SB and others. Plus on his own cds various songs from POTO. In final after his west End run in CCBB ends in July he will be free to do the film.
Sharon

[Doofy Gilmore]

F This movie.

[KayTang999]

Why F the movie??? It sounds good, IMO.

[Kobolos]

it could be...if they would allow it to be.

[maxwelldemon]

it COULD be....if schumacher doesn't ***** it up...

this movie has the potential to be amazing. great music. great scenery. great characters.

just don't mess it up, schumacher! GAH!

[KayTang999]

Easy to say but hard to do. :rolleyes:

[Kobolos]

just kill me now.

(from the main page)

According to Variety, Katie Holmes (Dawson's Creek, Abandon) is the frontrunner for Joel Schumacher's Phantom of the Opera big screen adaptation. She's reportedly already working with a vocal coach.

The feature version of Andrew Lloyd Webber's hit stage musical will begin principal photography in the fall in the UK.

[KayTang999]

Well, didn't expect this one but interesting.

[maxwelldemon]

*buries face in hands and shakes head*

so it begins...

[lechuck13]

Are you guys insane? She's great for this role! And she's an awesome singer, too. She sang On My Own (from Les Mis) on Dawson's Creek, and it was stupendous.

[maxwelldemon]

from what i've seen, she can't act very well.

plus, although i have not heard her version, i know that 'on my own' is a fairly easy broadway song to sing - the range is very limited. a role like christine requires tremendous range and control, which i highly doubt holmes would have.

and i hope they don't accomodate the songs to fit a limited range like they did in 'evita' w/ madonna.....yuck

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by lechuck13
Are you guys insane? She's great for this role! And she's an awesome singer, too. She sang On My Own (from Les Mis) on Dawson's Creek, and it was stupendous.



*takes a deep breath....counts to ten*


there...now I can answer calmly.

It is you who are mad, Monsieur. Singing an alto part on "The Dawson" does in no shape or form prepare you to take the part of a young soprano. That said, if they were casting the part of Eponine in Les Miserables or even I'll give you Meg Giry in Phantom then yeah, by all means try her out...the parts complement each other. But the part of Christine will eat her alive. I am assuming you know the production and what it demands, yes?

The sad part is this: She needs to be a classically trained dancer with a great soprano voice as well. I can't think of any Hollywood stars that fit into that category, and especially not Katie.

[chrissydechagny]

Katie did sing "On My Own" on Dawson's Creek, but not only was her voice weak and squeaky, it was also completley out of tune at times. Now, how can someone who can't even sing one of the easiest Broadway songs ever hope to master the range of voice and acting ability necessary to do justice to Christine Daae? I could be biased (see screen name- Phantom is very very special to me), but I agree with whoever said that no Hollywood actress has the versatility to pull off Christine, and ESPECIALLY not Katie Holmes.

[KayTang999]

I personally think that the casting director should get his/her butt out of the darn chair and hit high school and observe.

This role should not go to any of the hollywood actress. Should be a new face with the ability to do just that. There are million young girl out there who can act and sing soprano effectively.

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by chrissydechagny
I could be biased (see screen name- Phantom is very very special to me), but I agree with whoever said that no Hollywood actress has the versatility to pull off Christine, and ESPECIALLY not Katie Holmes.


I said it gosh darnit! ;)

And I know what you mean about Phantom...my son is named "Erik" for that very reason.

[chrissydechagny]

Originally posted by Kobolos
I said it gosh darnit! ;)

And I know what you mean about Phantom...my son is named "Erik" for that very reason.

Hee, I was too lazy to go back and look at your name, LOL.

Phantom means so much to so many people out there, I think ALW would have to be blind and deaf to think that Katie Holmes could ever do the role justice. I don't think Katie fans realize what goes into being Christine Daae. I don't think they know that actresses who portray her on stage are only allowed to perform it 6 times a week and the alternate must go on the other 2 times because the role is just. that. demanding. I don't think they realize very few people can hit that high E at the end of the title track, much less sustain it for the amount of time that is expected. I don't think they realize people who play Christine are often classically trained singers first and foremost (before being actresses) and some of them *still* have trouble with it. I just don't think people realize how extremely difficult this role really is. It's not just any other acting job, or even any other musical.

Sure, Katie can act. Sure, she's sung (not well, IMHO, but whatever) on Dawson's Creek. Sure, we've seen her dance. But she's never done any of those things at the level that is expected of the actress who does land this role, and to have to do all three at the same time? No way in hell will she ever be able to accomplish that, especially not in 6 months (if they really do start filming this fall).

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by chrissydechagny
Hee, I was too lazy to go back and look at your name, LOL.

Phantom means so much to so many people out there, I think ALW would have to be blind and deaf to think that Katie Holmes could ever do the role justice. I don't think Katie fans realize what goes into being Christine Daae. I don't think they know that actresses who portray her on stage are only allowed to perform it 6 times a week and the alternate must go on the other 2 times because the role is just. that. demanding. I don't think they realize very few people can hit that high E at the end of the title track, much less sustain it for the amount of time that is expected. I don't think they realize people who play Christine are often classically trained singers first and foremost (before being actresses) and some of them *still* have trouble with it. I just don't think people realize how extremely difficult this role really is. It's not just any other acting job, or even any other musical.

Sure, Katie can act. Sure, she's sung (not well, IMHO, but whatever) on Dawson's Creek. Sure, we've seen her dance. But she's never done any of those things at the level that is expected of the actress who does land this role, and to have to do all three at the same time? No way in hell will she ever be able to accomplish that, especially not in 6 months (if they really do start filming this fall).

It's funny in a way...since this project was announced all those years ago....we've worried about who would play Erik and now we have a bigger problem it seems with Christine.

Katie Holmes as Christine, Joel wants some young guy as "His" Phantom. This isn't going to be POTO, this IS going to be The Creek or some hip hop contemporary MTV Bull. Cast Van Der Beek as Erik and get it over with. :( Or worse yet: Why not get Julia Styles as Christine, Katie Holmes as Meg Giry, and Freddie Prinze as Erik. You know someone has considered it. :mad:

Bah! Get Sarah Michelle Gellar as Christine! Yeah, she sang on Buffy! She even danced a bit on it! Her and Freddie can make it a joint project! ((and I do like Buffy, I just know SMG has as much of a chance as making a mess of the role as anyone else)) *looks for his razor*


Anyway....Chrissy- have you ever read the Susan Kay book "Phantom"?

[sharon]

This is going no where. Obviously no one in Hollywierd has a clue where to find the correct actors/actresses for this movie. It is apparent they never spend time on Broadway or the West End. There is a young woman leaving Chitty Chitty Bang Bang today. She has an incredible voice. A little too young for Truly Scrumptious, at 18/19, but a great voice and holds her own with Michael Ball

[chrissydechagny]

Kobolos- Yes I have read Susan Kay's "Phantom". Unlike most phans though, I'm not much of a fan of that version. I think I'm too much of a purist and I think she just took way too many liberties with Leroux's original story. While Leroux's was, in essence, a horror/detective story, Kay turned it into a love story, and I just odn't believe it was. I think ALW did a great job of finding a nice balance between the two. Erik wasn't wholly evil or sympathetic, but a mixture of both. Raoul was more of a man (and didn't cry so much! LOL), and Christine, while in love with Raoul, had respect and a connection with Erik.

sharon- who is this girl that you're talking about? I myself would like to see Laura Michelle Kelly give it a try. Michael Crawford for Phantom, of course, but if not him, then Hugh Jackman. And Ewan McGregor for Raoul.

[KayTang999]

I am already prepare my heart for the dissapointment.

[maxwelldemon]

Originally posted by chrissydechagny
Michael Crawford for Phantom, of course, but if not him, then Hugh Jackman. And Ewan McGregor for Raoul.

i could not have said it better myself.

and i'm still vying for charlotte church for christine, as i have yet to hear of any other possibility who i would think is on par w/ the character.

seriously, listen to this girl sing 'pie jesu' - she's almost as good as sarah brightman herself - and her voice has only matured since first recording this.

plus she's around the right age - 18ish, correct?

[JustinCredible]

Although it would be nice to see Katie play such a great role... the singing part I don't think she is cut out for... Even though she purposely sang off key for the Creek... she isn't qualified to handle the role.

and Although I'm not hard up for 'Phantom' I would raise hell if someone even considered casting Beyonce' to play in a remake of 'The Wiz.'

But also you have to understand that the movie needs a known name... and Charlotte Church isn't going to draw fans in. So a balance has to be found.

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by chrissydechagny
Kobolos- Yes I have read Susan Kay's "Phantom". Unlike most phans though, I'm not much of a fan of that version. I think I'm too much of a purist and I think she just took way too many liberties with Leroux's original story. While Leroux's was, in essence, a horror/detective story, Kay turned it into a love story, and I just odn't believe it was. I think ALW did a great job of finding a nice balance between the two. Erik wasn't wholly evil or sympathetic, but a mixture of both. Raoul was more of a man (and didn't cry so much! LOL), and Christine, while in love with Raoul, had respect and a connection with Erik.

sharon- who is this girl that you're talking about? I myself would like to see Laura Michelle Kelly give it a try. Michael Crawford for Phantom, of course, but if not him, then Hugh Jackman. And Ewan McGregor for Raoul.

Regarding Kay's book, Some people would argue that ALW did the same thing. He especially get's negative points for being involved in that whole Forsyth "Phantom of Manhattan" fiasco.
I didn't see "Phantom" as a love story at all...But after Beauty and the Beast, people are likely to lump it in. It was an exploration of Erik's tragic but awe inspiring life. A journey that makes the last sacrifice in the opera house all the more powerful. But I do agree that horror tends to go more of a romantic route..yesterday's Dracula and Phantom are today's leading men.

You have something with this Raoul idea..get a name star to play Raoul, a careful balance because we don't want him to "be the hero" of the story. But someone to appease the "We have to have some known players in there..." but by all means, find someone that can play Erik and Christine....and do them justice.

[Stands Alone]

I would never in my life, trust Joel with this movie. He has not done in his life a musical. I don't know what ALW is thinking, but he is trusting a man, who messed up one franchise! (Batman)
Joel makes his movies charcters all pornographical. So, I really can't see why he should be doing this movie.

Secondly, Katie Holmes as the part of Christine is a 50/50 thing. She looks the part, but, she can't sing at all. Giving her the part seems quite understandable to me cause she looks the part, but the singing, no. I would have at least casted someone who looks the part and can sing.

As the Phantom, well, I will always have Michael Crawford in mind. Plus, at this moment, he is not doing anything at all, so what does that tell you?

[sharon]

Her name is Emma Williams and last night was her last with CCBB in London. She has been with it for the last year. If you guys had read the libretto Raoul is supposed to be about 40 years old in the play. They took a few artistic liberties. Michael Ball is the perfect voice for the role and now the perfect age. When he did it before he was a tad to young. He has a superior voice to that of both Mr. Jackman and Mr. Macgregor. The duet in the show, originally played by Steve Barton, was actually changed when Michael Ball joined so as to showcase his voice. If you think I am crazy please listen to him doing all the major songs from Phantom. It really is tremendous. Thanx for reading

[Stands Alone]

I heard him do the duet with Sarah Brightman at ALW's 50th Birthday party. He is so wonderful! I would say even though Sarah was not in the right range for Christine, Michael was.
Gosh he is so awsome.

Just look at this picture!



http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00007CVRD.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg

[sharon]

Well thank you. Michael Ball would be the perfect choice and yes he is a fantastic singer. Very well respected on the stage in the UK. I mean really 5 hit shows in 15 years is not to be looked down. He sells out concerts at a rapid rate. He can also sing everything. Show, pop, country, opera. Like I said perfect choice.

[Kobolos]

*just cries*

[sharon]

Kobolos
I don't get your response. Am I thick headed. Oh well

[Stands Alone]

Some people just can't stand MB, and I think thats why he is crying Sharon.

Is there any reason why you do not like Michael Ball?

[sharon]

I am sorry that I didn't get it. I find MB to very professional and from all accounts a hardworker and team leader. The voice is magnificent and he seems to never disappoint in concerts an shows. Where am I missing something. I thought professionalism counted for something. I know people have their favorites and the only person I have a really hard time with is AB.

[Kobolos]

*LOL* I was a bit vague, sorry....nope, I find Michael Ball just fine...matter of fact, they could get Ted Keegan up there and I'd be happy, just want someone that's actually played the part before to play Erik, but they will probably get the Dawson to play against Katie. *cries*

[sharon]

Thank you for your response. I really don't mean to be thick headed. I am just new to these various boards. But thanx again I just like the way MB does the Phantom songs.

[mithrandir]

Well, I always thought phamtom should be middle-aged, being pseudo-father figure for Christine...

Is it just my misunderstanding?

Was Phantom's age ever mentioned in the original novel?

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by mithrandir
Well, I always thought phamtom should be middle-aged, being pseudo-father figure for Christine...

Is it just my misunderstanding?

Was Phantom's age ever mentioned in the original novel?


He was near 40 in the Kay novel and in the ALW version, as the Angel of Music was supposed to be sent by her father...ah heck, let's call Erik timeless...as long as he isn't Christine's age.

[sharon]

I agree. The Phantom is timeless/ageless. I just think with all the brouhaha about casting we , the fans, are allowed our input. I just think that Michael Ball would be an excellent choice for either of the male leads. As the Phantom he is makeup the entire time and as Raoul MB looks young enough. But then again Steve Barton wa s the original and he was 35/36 at the time. Not much difference. Plus MB's versions of all the Phantom songs is exquisite.

Sharon

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by sharon
I agree. The Phantom is timeless/ageless. I just think with all the brouhaha about casting we , the fans, are allowed our input. I just think that Michael Ball would be an excellent choice for either of the male leads. As the Phantom he is makeup the entire time and as Raoul MB looks young enough. But then again Steve Barton wa s the original and he was 35/36 at the time. Not much difference. Plus MB's versions of all the Phantom songs is exquisite.

Sharon

Ah heck, let's take a page out of English Theatre history and cast MB as CHRISTINE. Tell me he couldn't sing it better than Katie Holmes. I rest my case.

:D

[sharon]

I can sing it better than Katie. Why does Hollywierd have to go with big starz. Greek Wedding proved you don't need it...We are no longer the stupid public. We know what is good and what is bad theater and movies We know good voices from adequate. Gawd we know who MB is because the play and theater is global.

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by sharon
I can sing it better than Katie. Why does Hollywierd have to go with big starz. Greek Wedding proved you don't need it...We are no longer the stupid public. We know what is good and what is bad theater and movies We know good voices from adequate. Gawd we know who MB is because the play and theater is global.

Okay, *checks his clipboard* MB is Erik/Raoul, Sharon is Christine, and I'll be the monkey with cymbals...this movie is cast!

[sharon]

I love it. You can be the director.

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by sharon
I love it. You can be the director.


That's a dangerous thought...:)

[sharon]

You have to start somewhere. You might as well start with something you know, right??

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by sharon
You have to start somewhere. You might as well start with something you know, right??

I always said if I won the lottery, I'd put my cash towards optioning the Kay novel and trying to get it made.

[jsilvert]

Hey, I like Katie as much as the next guy (she's easy on the eyes.) But she CANNOT sing. Les Mis is my favourite musical, and her butchering of on my own (one of my favourite songs) made me want to cry. I can't even listen to it. Secondly, again, Katie is easy on the eyes, but that does not a good actress make. She is only good in movies where she's a sex object, or in a teen comedy/drama. This may come off as sexist, but, the roles she takes speaks for herself. She can hardly carry a movie she's supposed to be frontlining, I doubt she could carry a musical.

[sharon]

As awoman I do not find the remarks you made sexist. All of us that have been posting on this and other sites are knowledgeable persons who want to see POTO made. We are offering what we believe to be good suggestions for actresses and actors in various roles. Sometimes humorously. Sometimes off-handedly. We are card-carrying, ticket-buying, theater and movie-goers. We know good from bad. Excellent from mediocre. Most of the suggestions are reasonable. i.e. Michael Ball my personal favorite. We have the right to express this on all these sites. That is why the sites are there. Free speech/dialogue. It is all ok. and right. So there. Speak your peace.

[jsilvert]

And I thank you for that. I didn't think my comments were sexist either, but sometimes people read what they want to, and not what you actually wrote :)

[sharon]

You are most welcome. I love good manners.:) I love POTO I love Les Miz and most anything else in musical theater. So there. And MB's voice

[sharon]

Oh, I almost forgot. I don't like what direction the film seems to be going in. Also JS seems to have linquini for brains. Not terribly mannerly but, what the heck, it needed to be said

[Kobolos]

From the front page:

Patrick Willson Cast in Phantom of the Opera
Wednesday, April 2, 2003 12:21 CST

Andrew Lloyd Webber and director Joel Schumacher have set Patrick Wilson in the role of Raoul in Phantom of the Opera, the screen adaptation of Lloyd Webber's musical, reports Variety. Wilson will play the boyfriend of the young singer who becomes the obsession of the phantom.

Wilson has already won Tony nominations for his work in "Oklahoma!" and "The Full Monty," parlaying that into the lead role in Angels in America, HBO's six-hour miniseries adaptation. Wilson stars alongside Al Pacino, Meryl Streep and Emma Thompson, with Mike Nichols directing.

He also plays military commander William Travis in Disney's The Alamo, alongside Dennis Quaid, Billy Bob Thornton and Jason Patric.

There is no definitive casting for the lead role, says the trade. The role of Christine might be filled first, with many young actresses singing for Lloyd Webber. Rumored contenders include Katie Holmes and Anne Hathaway.

Lloyd Webber is producing the film from a script that he wrote with Schumacher.

He's the one that replaced Ethan Hawke in the Alamo...sounds sort of promising. Best news I've heard in a while..glad someone will have a theatre background. Although I'm still waiting for casting of the Big Two.
Here is one of the only pics I could find.
http://www.geocities.com/brimstone_witch/patrick_wilson1.jpg

[sharon]

Well at least he can sing. But if he is almost 30 years of age. How old is the Phantom going to be? I thought he wanted someone younger. Now it sounds if they are going for someone more mature.

[Darkness]

Yes, who were they considering for the Phantom? This is one of my favorite books and my absolute favorite musical. I love the Phantom and am very wary about anyone they might cast as him. I've heard rumors, but were there any people definately in the running? The Phantom will always be Crawford to me, but I want to enjoy this movie, I really do.

[evilsquishy]

Andrew Lloyd Weber could have salvaged this out of Schumacher's crap, but w/ this casting, my hopes are going downhill.

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by evilsquishy
Andrew Lloyd Weber could have salvaged this out of Schumacher's crap, but w/ this casting, my hopes are going downhill.

from Dark Horizons:

Joel Schumacher recently responded to PhantomMovie.Com about the questions of Michael Crawford having any chance for the lead role despite Weber's disapproval: "The decision to not use Michael Crawford is Andrew Lloyd Webber's and his alone. All fans and friends of fans of Michael Crawford should please tell that to everyone for me, because this has nothing to do with me. If you care to write to ALW, it's the Really Useful Company in London".

[sharon]

It that is true doesn't it make you just a little curious as to whom ALW is going to pick to be his "Phantom" It opens up the competition a bit I think. maybe not. Maybe

[sharon]

Sorry. I should have said this earlier. Sounds like Joel as a burr up somewhere and is very tired of everyone bad mouthing him about the Phantom and his ideas. Maybe just edgy because he has a new movie tomorrow. Maybe he knows he said some really inappropriate things about who and what the Phantom should be.

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by sharon
Sorry. I should have said this earlier. Sounds like Joel as a burr up somewhere and is very tired of everyone bad mouthing him about the Phantom and his ideas. Maybe just edgy because he has a new movie tomorrow. Maybe he knows he said some really inappropriate things about who and what the Phantom should be.


He's edgy because people haven't been this grouchy since he killed the Batman series...:)

[Stands Alone]

People, such as Joel and ALW are being SUCH hypocrites..They are both saying, one person cast, and the other doesn't.

This is getting anoying, from this little dissagreements, I think this movie is going to die. As in, movie dying.

[sharon]

I can't help but think they already know who they want and they are trying to stir the pot. I am surprised by their choice for Raoul only because he is not well known. But has an ok voice. Which makes me wonder will he sing the part like Steve Barton or with the changes ALW made for Michael Ball and his greater range. Curiouser and Curiouser

[evilsquishy]

I knew it was going to be trouble w/ two "directors". They always fight and, while the two separate dreams for the movie may be fine, when they mesh, horrors occur. So yet another great idea flushing down the toilet......:(

[sharon]

Bottom line. Why would ALW sell his baby down the tubes?? It would only make him look bad. And make musical theater in London a harder sell.

[Darkness]

So Anne Hathaway is up for Christine now? Interesting. She's so young. Not the first person I would have picked, but I guess she could work.

[sharon]

On some other sites it is said that she was Lili in a production of Carnival and can sing. But I don't know. JS was on BBC saying they were starting autitions/casting soon for the film. But not saying whether in London or LA.

[Kobolos]

I have it on good authority that he was auditioning in a hotel bar in Duluth, Minnesota for his cast....

is it so far-fetched? :(

[sharon]

Maybe he'll buy us drinkx too. Ya think??? I still just have a hard time why he hasn't gone with obvious musical choices. Greek Wedding must have proved that you don't need a big name cast. But ofcourse the budget was considerably smaller. Whaddya think of that???

[KayTang999]

Hmmm Anne Hathaway, I like this one better than Katie Holmes. No offense but she is more of the Christine type than Katie.

[sharon]

I have a question
What is the Christine type
Erik type
Raoul type
I have heard many answers. Is there a definitive answer
I wonder?????

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
Hmmm Anne Hathaway, I like this one better than Katie Holmes. No offense but she is more of the Christine type than Katie. I just listened to Phantom again last night and really realized the voice control you need for Christine and there is no way Katie Holmes has that.

But in my opinion, I don't know if you can get better than Sarah Brightman....

[sharon]

I don't know if she is right or wrong. I admit that she sings beautifully. Her age may be a factor as she is now over 40 and Christine is a young woman. I have her cds. I know that age should not be a factor with the "phantom" character as he is a mentor type. A father figure agewise. Raoul I am not sure about. I guess he should be youngish. But in that time period younger women were courted by older more experienced men. I know that at the beginning of the play he is supposed to be approx. 70 ish. That would put him in his middle 30's/early 40's at the time of the main part of the play. Steve Barton was older than Michael Ball when they did the original two productions. Who knows what they want. I realize it is a large chunk of change to make this picture. But the music and the lyrics are what most people are familiar with not the play. So much for now

[KayTang999]

I don't think that they will cast the original cast for this one. Aren't they too old to do this now??? I would rather see someone new doing this.

[Kobolos]

dub the voices. It worked for Teri Polo in Charles Dance's TV miniseries.

[sharon]

I think hat woould be a big mistake because evryone would know it. Ya think

[Kobolos]

I'd rather have Katie Holmes singing like Sarah than Katie singing like Katie.

Especially so for the Phantom.

[KayTang999]

OH please no dub thing, I had enough of that on Anime, I want real voice of the person.

[sharon]

Real singers 2
dubbers 0!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Folks we have a winner. Thing is, will we approve of the winners and their team

[avalanche81]

NADIA BJORLIN--- she is a 22 year old opera singer and actress
Like Christine, she is also swedish, her father died at a very young age, can actually sing, has long dark hair and blue eyes

here is her biography at the link below. She has performed since childhood. This 22 years old has accolades to her name including the First Place in the NYC Metro Lyric Opera competition.
http://www.nadia-bjorlin.com/about/biography.html
She is finishing up a 3 stint as an actress on Day's Of Our Lives where she has quickly become one of the best known actresses of Daytime and carried the show for this time. She has sang on the show as well. Her Opera singing has actually turned on alot of young people to opera.

She is an INCREDIBLY warm and sweet person according to anyone that has ever met her at FanEvents. She has a large fan base with over 1100 regular posters at her messageboard at http://www.nadia-bjorlin.com , including myself, lol.
As far as a few other thing not yet updated in her biography she was the sole national ambassader for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Light the Night Walks, a great and ardous public service. She carried a Leukemia Story Line on the show "Days", something which hit close to home for her, as her father Ulf Bjorlin SR. died of cancer when she was just a child.

alot of people are now writing letters to ALW and JS to try and get them to consider her. Her name has been submitted. I hope some of you can take a look at Nadia Bjorlin.
Thanks :)

oh and great messageboard, a friend of mine recommended as a place to look at fans reactions to movies

here's a couple of pics (for the second one she's on the LEFT)
http://www.nadia-bjorlin.com/imgs/nb3vf.jpg http://www.nbc.com/nbc/Fanfestival/images/sat_auto_15.jpg

[cmstevens]

Originally posted by sharon
I have a question
What is the Christine type
Erik type
Raoul type
I have heard many answers. Is there a definitive answer
I wonder?????

I have seen/heard Anne Hathaway perform on stage at Carnegie Hall. She has an amazing soprano voice! She is also wonderful actress, as I was priviledged enough to see her in "Gigi", "Jane Eyre", and "Life on Earth".

If you have any concerns about her abilities to play Christine, I have verified that the biographical information on the page linked below is accurate. She would make a SUPERB Christine!

http://www.anne-hathaway.com/biography.html

[sharon]

Thank you so much I will check it out.:)

[KayTang999]

I saw Anne in Princess Diarie.

[Kobolos]

Originally posted by sharon
Real singers 2
dubbers 0!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Folks we have a winner. Thing is, will we approve of the winners and their team


Nope. When James Van Der Beek plays Erik you'll all wish Crawford was dubbed in.

[KayTang999]

HUH, James Van Der Beek??? Who is making this movie, Kevin Williams???

[sharon]

They took less time to plan the Normandy invasion than they are taking to make this film. You know, No one is going to be completely happy with whomever they cast (or don't cast). The problem is we all have or favorites but I think we good all live with a good, musically gifted group. That can't be that hard
Or is it?????

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by sharon
The problem is we all have or favorites but I think we good all live with a good, musically gifted group. That can't be that hard
Or is it?????
Too bad that's not what they are casting......

[KayTang999]

Exactly, damn I am so scare that I will hate this.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
Exactly, damn I am so scare that I will hate this.
I know! :( I absolutely LOVE the musical and have seen it live as well as am playing the music on my piano just a while ago.....but if they keep going downhill, I'm not sure I'll even see it!

[KayTang999]

And it's Phantom!!! :weeping in sorrow.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
And it's Phantom!!! :weeping in sorrow. Alright, while I'm out there w/ my shotgun, I'd best find Shumacher and have a little talk......

[KayTang999]

LOL, have fun negotiating with him. I hope he will listen.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
LOL, have fun negotiating with him. I hope he will listen.
If he doesn't, I can always "dispose" of him and find a cooperative lookalike!:D

[KayTang999]

LOL, right or may be you can just take his place, now that the idea!!!

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
LOL, right or may be you can just take his place, now that the idea!!! Hrm.....I like it! Now, to hunt down Andrew Lloyd Webber and discuss why it would be in his best interest to listen to me!;)

[sharon]

I think negotiation is best. There is no need for violence no matter how appealing it may seem. I just think that we all know what we want in the film.:)

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by sharon
I think negotiation is best. There is no need for violence no matter how appealing it may seem. I just think that we all know what we want in the film.:)
But....but....but...it's so fun!;) :p

[KayTang999]

LOL, it is fun, just to think about it is already fun. LOL

[sharon]

Why can't we just have a good film??????????
Curiouser and curiouser

[KayTang999]

That is a really good question. I guess it is because hollywood running the industry.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
That is a really good question. I guess it is because hollywood running the industry. What doesn't Hollywood ruin?

[KayTang999]

Hmmm, this is also a good question. My answer is NONE!!!

[chazman]

This appeared in Cindy Adams column in todays "NY Post:"

EVEN THE YOUNG ARE TOO OLD FOR 'PHANTOM'

JOEL Schumacher, who directed "Phone Booth," is having a youth obsession. Planning his "Phantom of the Opera" movie, he says: "John Travolta wants to do it but I think I'll go younger."
His two current youthful stars won't cut it either. Colin Farrell hasn't the right stuff. The songs are almost operatic and he wants names who can really belt. As for young Katie Holmes: "She's recently been taking singing lessons. I've heard Katie's singing and it's beautiful. But I still may want a younger actress."

[ILOVEKATIE]

Woah, nice to see you here Chaz!
Thanks for the article.:)

[KayTang999]

Joel is being really really picky. But that is a good sign I guess. The more you are being picky the better you might get.

[sharon]

Then if hyye is being picky why doesn't he go with theater people who have done the roles, and can sing the parts.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
Joel is being really really picky. But that is a good sign I guess. The more you are being picky the better you might get.
Or.......he's being a complete moron and overlooking talent to meet his odd little requirements. Yep, I'm almost sure that's it.;)

[KayTang999]

Yeah it could go either way. Just hope that the same God who wipe out Bennifer rumor about Casablanca did the job with Joel too, that might help.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
Yeah it could go either way. Just hope that the same God who wipe out Bennifer rumor about Casablanca did the job with Joel too, that might help.
Get's down on knees and starts praying, no, pleading.;)

[sharon]

I just want the film to transport me like the play does.

[KayTang999]

Originally posted by evilsquishy
Get's down on knees and starts praying, no, pleading.;)


May be human sacrefice might work better :look around to find a victim:

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
May be human sacrefice might work better :look around to find a victim:
*Hides, then remembers my hate list and goes out to find them*
Hee hee!;)

[KayTang999]

Oh yeah, we can share that list and used them 'wisely', LOL.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
Oh yeah, we can share that list and used them 'wisely', LOL.
Yes, I know quite a few people Hollywood would do better without! Heh heh heh........

[KayTang999]

Oh yeah, but I was thinking of someone closer. LOL

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by KayTang999
Oh yeah, but I was thinking of someone closer. LOL What, you mean Todd?;) :p

[KayTang999]

LOL, no. Someone else.

[evilsquishy]

(I know);)
At least we're narrowing it down.....

[KayTang999]

That choice won't be too bad but I think the God might be piss because that person is too good at mooning others.

[evilsquishy]

*Just shakes head in disgust*

[KayTang999]

LOL, at my choice???

[evilsquishy]

Not hardly....at Todd.

[KayTang999]

Oh ok, so I guess we agreed.

[evilsquishy]

Okay!.......Pssst, what were we talking about?

[KayTang999]

Sacreficing someone to get the God agree on changing Joel mind about casting.

[evilsquishy]

Ah yes.....such good ideas!:D

[KayTang999]

Oh yeah, a really good idea if that would change Joel mind.

[evilsquishy]

He would......he'd have to.....we'll make him!;)

[KayTang999]

Yeah, run after him and chase him down.

[evilsquishy]

I'll leave that to you.....I'm just going to be behing w/ the bat.

[KayTang999]

LOL, I will get him and you smash him???

[evilsquishy]

Sounds like a plan!:D

[KayTang999]

Right, a plan for us to get arrested! LOL fun fun fun

[evilsquishy]

Well, there's no reason the cop wouldn't hate Shumacher too.....

[KayTang999]

LOL, so let them arrest him instead of us then, LOL.

[evilsquishy]

PLEASE!!!!

[KayTang999]

LOL, Hollywood Cop.

[ILOVEKATIE]

I'm sorry, don't mind me, sounds like you two are in the middle of a "plan" discussion, I'll be gone now, didn't hear anything.
**starts walking slowly, then runs like hell**

[KayTang999]

LOL, you can join if you want.

[Slvrfreakgirl]

Hi! I'm new here and I love Phantom of the Opera...have seen it six time is the theatre...just thought I would post this:

OMG!!! I was just reading an interview with Rebecca Romijn-Stamos and Alan Cumming talking about X-Men 2 and their next projects---this is what Alan said:


AC: I'm adapting my novel into a screenplay and things like that. Next I'll be in 'Spy Kids 3D' doing a little return cameo.

And then I'm going to make this film, 'Phantom of the Opera.'

RRS: Shhhh...

AC: A little-known musical.



Q: Who's directing that?

AC: Joel Schumacher. I am playing Christine, yes.

[laughs]

No, I'm playing one of the theater owners.

http://www.comicbookresources.com/news/newsitem.cgi?id=2147


That is SOOOO awsome! I love Alan Cumming!!! He is a great actor and has an awsome voice! Yeah!!!!!!!

[KayTang999]

Now that more like it.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by ILOVEKATIE
I'm sorry, don't mind me, sounds like you two are in the middle of a "plan" discussion, I'll be gone now, didn't hear anything.
**starts walking slowly, then runs like hell** Probably a wise decision....:D

[KayTang999]

LOL, either that or join the dark side.

[ILOVEKATIE]

see, evilsquishy is warning me, but the dark side is sooo tempting. I don't know if I can do it.
*starts reading "How To Turn To The Dark Side for Dummies" book*
MUAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!
I CAN DO IT!

[KayTang999]

Good, one more people to help.

[[mza]]

pick aguilera, at least she can sing... take out all the piercings for the movie though.

[Slvrfreakgirl]

"take out all the piercings for the movie though"

LOL can you imagine her in the movie singing to phantom with all of those piercings? LMAO!!!!

[ILOVEKATIE]

haha, i can just imagine.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by ILOVEKATIE
see, evilsquishy is warning me, but the dark side is sooo tempting. I don't know if I can do it.
*starts reading "How To Turn To The Dark Side for Dummies" book*
MUAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!
I CAN DO IT!
Good! Now our plan is *certain* to work!:D

[Kobolos]

Go look at the Main page, Is Alan Cumming going to play Erik? Raoul has been cast, who else could he be playing??

[Slvrfreakgirl]

"No, I'm playing one of the theater owners"

he's playing either Firmin (sp?) or Andre--one of the theater owners... I can't wait!!!!

[evilsquishy]

:rolleyes:
I wouldn't be too suprised if Schumacher let him walk out there in full Nightcrawler costume....

[KayTang999]

LOL, hey but Alan is a great actor, and he is trained.

[evilsquishy]

But can he sing?

[KayTang999]

I am pretty sure he can.

[evilsquishy]

I'd be less hesitant if I hadn't seen some of the decisions, but I guess I can't ***** about every cast they make;)

[KayTang999]

Alan is one cast I won't complain. He is classically trained, stage trained. No worry there.

[Slvrfreakgirl]

"I wouldn't be too suprised if Schumacher let him walk out there in full Nightcrawler costume...." LOLOLOL

He has a great voice...have you heard him in Cabaret or Annie? He won a Tony award for Cabaret...that should show something, at least...I think he would do a great job!!

[KayTang999]

Yeah. Totally forgot that he was in Cabaret. I knew he did some musical work.

[DaNoyse]

Nothing about this movie sounds right so far. Not even Patrick Wilson as Raoul. He's got a great voice, but he's just not a Raoul.

And whoever thought Katie Holmes should play Christine based on that pitiful rendition on "On My Own" she sang on Dawson's Creek needs to listen to an actual performance of that song. I saw "Les Miserables" on Broadway last month, and the girl playing Eponine practically shook the walls with the last note of that song. Katie could barely hold the tune, let alone the last note.

Christine is an OPERA SINGER, not some kid who just started taking singing lessons.

And Michael Crawford IS the Phantom. I've seen great Phantoms on stage (Davis Gaines, Howard McGillin)...but Michael is the guy you just associate with the role. He originated it, he made it famous...he deserves this part. The biggest mistake they can make is not casting him.

I think the stupidest decisions are being made on this film. They're riding on the heels of comeback of musical movies--but the first people who are going to be running to a POTO movie are the musical theater fans--and they seem be alienating them completely with these casting choices.

[evilsquishy]

ITA.....and I don't really know if I can truly respect any other Phantom besides Crawford.....

[KayTang999]

Yeah agree but isn't he a bit old for the role???

[sharon]

I don't think age is a "real" issue. The Phantom is a father figure, a mentor. At least that is how he sees himself. He is disfigured. Raoul is not ever fully explained. He is moneyed, handsome, and in love. The "love" interest. Not as deep as the Phantom. A good singing role. They have gotten a good singer. They are going with stage and musical theater people so far. Maybe this is a sign. Who really knows?? There is lots of speculation but nothing firm at this moment in time except those two roles. So maybe there is a little hope....I have always said that most people associate Michael Crawford with the role because of the music not because they have seen the play. So now we just wait and see. I guess.

[KayTang999]

Hmmm, intersting. Well Hollywood Reporter said that Gerard Butler got offered for the title role.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by sharon
ISo maybe there is a little hope....I have always said that most people associate Michael Crawford with the role because of the music not because they have seen the play.
But I've seen the play and heard Crawford, and he just fits so well. That was kind of a main point in the musical too, right? That the Phantom was a bit older than Christine, so it was "wrong" I guess.....she needed someone her own age....
Actually, I have no idea what I just said!:p

[Stands Alone]

Somebody asked if Alan could sing and the anwser is: Yes he can.

He was in the telivision remake of "Annie" as the part of "Rooster."

Im sure he would be a fine Andre, and his voice sounds quite like him.

I give him a good 2 thumbs up. :)

(Cause I like him :P)

[DaNoyse]

I saw Alan Cumming in Cabaret, and he was brilliant. He can sing and act brilliantly. He'd be an awesome as one of the theater owners.

Michael Ball would be an excellent Phantom. I've been a fan of his ever since I saw him in Aspects of Love on Broadway back in 1990, and he has the most unbelievable voice.

But it won't happen--Schumacher's plans of destruction are well under way.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by DaNoyse
But it won't happen--Schumacher's plans of destruction are well under way.
:D I'm liking you already!

[KayTang999]

Oh yeah, you seems to catching on really fast.

[ILOVEKATIE]

Don't worry, we have our own plan of destruction for Mr. Schumacher, we're still going through with it right?

[sharon]

G. Butler. Oh Pleeeeease. No Michael Crawford. He's too old. No Michael Ball not well known enough. So instead we get a unproven singer. I'm not too pleased with this development.

[Stands Alone]

Originally posted by sharon
G. Butler. Oh Pleeeeease. No Michael Crawford. He's too old. No Michael Ball not well known enough. So instead we get a unproven singer. I'm not too pleased with this development.

Sharon, this is life. Even though it sucks, we have to get through it, one day at a time..

I think the movie industry is shelling out alot of money for some terrible movies these days. Since Lord of the Rings: TTT, there has not been a single good movie I have seen.

Please, one of power, strike them down, before they ruin the franchise for good!

Also, I am thinking that ALW is planning to have someone "look" the part. For, the guy rumored to play the "phantom" played in Dracula. And, he lookes creepy, so he is going along the lines: "If he has been in a creepy movie, he is decent enough for me."

[sharon]

Creepy does not cut it for me. I know I should get a grip but you know I had such High expectations for the film. I mean it could be a classic success not a classic failure. I doubt that I will be proved wrong. Remember that people fell in love with the music and the lyrics long before they could put faces with the characters. Even now most people know the score not the original cast other than Michael Crawford. Maybe it will all work out. Sorry for the ramble.

[Stands Alone]

You did not ramble Sharon. I "acually" thought ALW could be agreeable. But, it showed you that, ALW does not give a rats *** about us MC fans.

Anyways, I posted on a site saying I would not spend my money to see it, but, it looks like I might, cause Alan is in it. And, he has a marvelous voice. :P

[sharon]

I still might hold out. I was hoping for Michael Ball. CCBB coming to NY notwithstanding. But I guess that has been dashed. But I am glad that you got Mr. Cummings. You may be right about ALW I don't know.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by ILOVEKATIE
Don't worry, we have our own plan of destruction for Mr. Schumacher, we're still going through with it right?
You bet! We were just waiting for you. After all, you remembered the bat, didn't you?:confused: ;)

[KayTang999]

LOL, so wait what was our plan again???

[ILOVEKATIE]

I got the bat already, two actually, you never know what the bastard would try to do if we miss the first swing, one of us would have another apportunity to strike again, just incase, you know...for our safety.;)

[ILOVEKATIE]

Ok heres our plan:
"Operation Smashumacher"
Kay- you would chase him down until you get him. Make sure u wear the latest Nikes.
evil- you will come soon after and smash him with the bat, I made sure I got a metal bat, so don't worry it will knock him silly, I bought another bat just incase he goes Matrix on us and plus I want to have the chance to do some swinging of my own, hehe.
OK back to the plan, I also bought ropes to tie him up, thats were I come in, I would come in our getaway car, I will open the trunck and we'll put him in there.
Now for the ultimate conclusion to our mission, we would drive to the police station and just throw him there, and since everyone hates him, this "cop" will arrest him for no reason except the he hates him as much as we hate him.
So there u go, we leave the scene of the crime with our hands clean and we go celebrate.:D
What do u think?

[Kobolos]

He's Mulling it over...like Butler has anything else to do :) '

According to today's The Hollywood Reporter, Gerard Butler has been offered the title role in Joel Schumacher's THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, based on Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical production. Butler is mulling the offer over among others. He'll next be seen in Richard Donner's TIMELINE.

Also rumored to be the front contenders for the female lead of Christine in the film are Anne Hathaway (THE PRINCESS DIARIES)) and Emmy Rossum

[sharon]

He can mull until he's blue. I am not happy.

[Stands Alone]

I so want to hurt him, I find his movies so, not his style. Never his style to be exact.

Can he not understand that, when he messes around with "fantasy" like movies, he "really" messes them up?

Ooo, can I join your : Operation: Squash?

[KayTang999]

LOL, yeah sure. The more the merrier!!!

[Stands Alone]

As Cartman would say: "Sweeeeeettt.." So, how will we begin? Should we torture him, or squash him to death?

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by ILOVEKATIE
Ok heres our plan:
"Operation Smashumacher"
:funny: I LOVE it!!
But why only throw him in prison? I mean, can't we brainwash him while he's knocked out or something?;)

[Stands Alone]

Originally posted by evilsquishy
:funny: I LOVE it!!
But why only throw him in prison? I mean, can't we brainwash him while he's knocked out or something?;)



Yes, yes! We should. After seeing X-Men, that once scene with Prof. Xavier made me think about that. Does anybody know a local hyptnotist?

[ILOVEKATIE]

hmmmm YES!! YES!!! I always thought the initial plan was a little too easy for him you know, we have to make him suffer a little.
Brainwashing him sounds like a lot fun to me, but how though? How can we pull it off? The X-Men thing doesn't sound bad, but the requires for us to find a freak like in the film. hmm...

[evilsquishy]

Well, hypnotists are usually either very strange or very timid people, right? So either we beat them into doing it for us, or we make up some odd story that a freaky hypnotist would believe. We can work out details later.

[KayTang999]

No, hypno only for temporary, we need something permanent!!!

[evilsquishy]

I'm up for suggestions!

[KayTang999]

A permanent brainwash???

[ILOVEKATIE]

sounds good to me

[KayTang999]

Yeah, then we demand him to make us his producers, then we can take the control of the production!!!

MUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

[ILOVEKATIE]

nice...I always thought doing this would be fun but getting payed too for being producers(cause you know we have to get pay), its awesome!!!

[KayTang999]

Well we can jack up the percentage of how much we get from the box office too!!!

[evilsquishy]

*Sigh of relief*
It just keeps getting better!:D

[KayTang999]

Oh, it can get even better, just have to let me plan about it some more!!!

LOL

[ILOVEKATIE]

:funny:I like the way you think, keep those ideas coming.

[evilsquishy]

*Jams head*
Sorry, fresh out of good ones. Gimme a few days to replenish.

[KayTang999]

That mean we can do anything on this production!!! Casting, location searching, costume, and script!!!

[Kobolos]

"He’s going to be a great Phantom - a young, sexy Phantom. And I know the Michael Crawford fans are going to be hysterical, but maybe they should stay home then... "

You know, when I think of Erik...Young and Sexy...doesn't immediately come to mind.

Stay Home? Think I will.

[KayTang999]

Did you see who they cast for Christine???

[evilsquishy]

Someone I've never heard of, that's for sure.....
http://ia.imdb.com/media/imdb/01/I/17/55/22m.jpg
Does anyone know about her?

[KayTang999]

If you have seen "Genius" disney movie on disney channel, you know who she is.

[DaNoyse]

"A young, sexy phantom."????

Has Joel ever SEEN Phantom of the Opera? He may realize at some point that the phantom's mask is not a fashion statement.

This movie is going to be AWFUL. I'd rather see the show on Broadway again instead.

[KayTang999]

Well, we are trying not to let that happen but it is hard!!!

[necronon99]

I dont like JS
and I dont know a thing about POTO
50 50 on this one

[KayTang999]

The only cast I am happy with is Alan Cumming and other than that I just pray!!!

[ILOVEKATIE]

The man has to be stopped, our future depends on it!

[KayTang999]

JS??? The only way to stop him is to pull him off the project.

[Opera Ghost]

I have been hearing rumors about this film for years and I was hoping that most of them were not true. I am a HUGE Phantom Phan. I was blown away when I first saw the musical. I am sooo upset that Joel Schumaker will be directing this film. Does anyone else agree that he will screw this film up! The only film that he made that was worth my time was Tigerland. How can you compare any of his films to The Phantom of the Opera?!? This film will be a mix of The Lost Boys and Batman and Robin! Also, why would they cast someone like Gerard Butler in this film? He is so young! He is only 3 years older that Patrick Wilson, who will be playing Raoul. The Phantom is suppose to be in his late forties! They are already calling the Phantom in this film "Young and Sexy"! What a joke. Did ALW have a stroke? Why would he risk the future of his most successful show? I would have loved to seen Michael Crawford, as most fans would. This film is doomed! I'm sorry but I had to vent. Does anyone else agree?

[sniktawt]

I will wait till I see it to pass judgement although JS sucks big time.

[KayTang999]

Well ever since Batman and Robin, I kind of lost hope.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by Opera Ghost
I am sooo upset that Joel Schumaker will be directing this film. Does anyone else agree that he will screw this film up!
Just about everyone;)

[KayTang999]

:lol:

Yeah, everyone.

[sniktawt]

Originally posted by KayTang999
Well ever since Batman and Robin, I kind of lost hope. Strange that the man ever got hired after that piece of crap !!!!!!!!!!!!!!:confused:
I wonder how Schumacher feels after destroying a billion dollar franchise and knowing he's gonna destroy another masterpiece.

[KayTang999]

I haven't seen it but was Phone Booth good???

[Opera Ghost]

I haven't seen Phone Booth either but I know JS had some trouble getting that movie started. Of course, you cannot compare action movies like Phone Booth to a musical. JS is a mediocre director at best. I actually think I am being kind by saying that. I would have much rather seen a director like Sam Mendes do this film!

[KayTang999]

True but you can tell how much the director care about his product by looking at his previous works.

[Darkness]

Sam Mendes would have been wonderful. Just the right amount of pain and tragedy. He would have done justice by Erik.

I don't have a problem with Butler if he's going to play Erik as older, but I do have a problem with JS saying that he was "young and sexy". Ahem...someone hasn't read their homework have they Joel. These were the LAST things Erik was, at least in the way JS means. Erik's sexiness came from his intelligence and survival skills, not his looks or personality.

[KayTang999]

I don't know what Andrew Webber Lloyd (SP) was thinking when he let JS do it.

[Opera Ghost]

Darkness,

I totally agree with you. I am afraid that this film will be a train wreck and all the people who have not be fortunate enough to see the broadway show will have no idea how great it is.

[evilsquishy]

Originally posted by Darkness
I don't have a problem with Butler if he's going to play Erik as older, but I do have a problem with JS saying that he was "young and sexy". Ahem...someone hasn't read their homework have they Joel. These were the LAST things Erik was, at least in the way JS means.
That's another reason why Christine was creeped out by him.

[KayTang999]

Totally, the more news of this project the more chill I got, not because of excitement but the fear!!!

[Darkness]

Christine has to be repulsed and compelled by him to do the character right. "Young and sexy" just doesn't cut it for the repulsion part. He was living in the BASEMENT for a reason.

The book is the only thing that really does justice to Erik I think. He was, in my opinion, an incredible man who never got appreciated in life. He broke my heart. He scared me. He made me love him, scars and all. He is one of the most incredible characters in literature, and while I'll probably watch this movie, I know I'm just going to go back to the book because that's where MY Erik is. The Erik who died of a broken heart. The Erik who was a genius. The Erik who WAS the Phantom.

[KayTang999]

Well, I guess they just try to make everyone look good in movie to attract people, I guess someone didn't do their homework.

[Opera Ghost]

Does anyone know how they are going to do this film? I wonder if it will be based more on the book or more on the musical? I would love to get my hands on the script!

[KayTang999]

I think musical cause, what his name, Webber? Yeah, he is involve on the project and didn't he did the one on the boardway???

Je ne sais pas.

[Stands Alone]

My sister told me this little interesting Tidbit: For every musical movie, they either A: Change the lyrix of one of the songs, hoping to snag an Oscar, B: They make an entirely different song, still hoping to be qualified for an oscar, and C: They do nothing at all to it, hoping it will reconized for an Oscar. It's kind of stupid why this happened, but, it happens in all the musical movies. For "The Music Man", they changed the words for "My White Knight" to "Being in Love". For the movie Chicago, they made an entirely different song "I Move On". And, most of the scores they leave alone. The only one I know that was not sucessful was The Music Man's, it wasn't nominated as a song at all.


Anyways, back to the point of POTO, just watch, they'll do the same again. What if one of the lyrix was changed for the movie? Or they added an entirely diffrent song into it. Well, if they did, I want Charles Hart doing the lyrix to a new song. And, if they didn't, I don't want anyone touching the lyrix. They are good how they are. They did it to Evita, only, that song acually fit into the movie, and it snagged an oscar.

[evilsquishy]

Still wouldn't be right to change a song.
It's no "Moulin Rouge" where the whole movie is a farce.

[Stands Alone]

I personally would not call Moulin Rouge! a musical. Mainly because I didn't like the fact it took songs, made popular by many artists, and made them into one big song. I was hoping they would come up with their OWN music, but I guess not...they had to go and take the credit from other people's music.

[KayTang999]

Well, I think you can be musical when your movie is mainly presented in songs rather than dialogs even though the song might not be original.

[Darkness]

Yeah, MR is definately a musical. Not a conventional one, but it is one. I figure they'll make POTO like the musical version. I myself would prefer for it to be like the book.

[KayTang999]

Yeah but since AWL is on the project, it seems like another musical to me. I just hope it will be good.

[evilsquishy]

As long as Phantom turns out better than 'Evita", I'll be quasi-happy.

[PsYkOoOoO]

Originally posted by Stands Alone
I personally would not call Moulin Rouge! a musical. Mainly because I didn't like the fact it took songs, made popular by many artists, and made them into one big song. I was hoping they would come up with their OWN music, but I guess not...they had to go and take the credit from other people's music.


moulin rouge was horrible...

[George Bushs 18th cousin]

I always saw the Phantom as a "Sexy" character but not because he is physically attractive...it is the mystery, the enigma that makes him "sexy"...Shumacher is a fool. The Phantoms mask will end up having nipples

[KayTang999]

Originally posted by PsYkOoOoO
moulin rouge was horrible...

Wow, you are the first person that I know that say that. Why do you think it was horrible?

[Stands Alone]

I agree with PsYkOoOoO. Moulin Rouge was terrible. I just hated the whole storyline. The music, not creative enough for me. I could go on forever, but thats what I hate about. I wouldn't really consider it "one" like all the other musicals in the past.

[KayTang999]

Well, the performance was the most stand out part from Moulin Rouge. I don't know about story, I think it was original. The music fit well with the movie. I didn't look for original music and I think it would be better if the viewers could recognize the music than creat something news for movie like this in which the music is not an only focus point.

But it is just IMO.

[Darkness]

I always saw the Phantom as a "Sexy" character but not because he is physically attractive...it is the mystery, the enigma that makes him "sexy"...

That's the truth. He was attractive for what he WAS not what he looked like.

The Phantoms mask will end up having nipples


LOL.

[KayTang999]

I didn't even see that nipples part!!! LOL

[Stands Alone]

Well. time to bring this up again. Here is the new news:


The Cast (Acording to IMDB):

Cast (in credits order)
Gerard Butler .... The Phantom
Emmy Rossum .... Christine Daaé
Patrick Wilson .... Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny
Simon Callow .... Monsieur Andre
Miranda Richardson .... Madame Giry
Minnie Driver .... Carlotta Guidicelli
rest of cast listed alphabetically
Jennifer Ellison .... Meg Giry
James Fleet .... Monsieur Lefevre
Ciarán Hinds .... Monsieur Firmin
Victor McGuire .... Ubaldo Piangi
Murray Melvin .... Monsieur Reyer


There was news that Alan Cummings was in it, but, I don't know what happened there. Looks like that is a no.

For other news: I was told by a couple boards that Minnie Driver and Piangi are going to be dubbed (or Carlotta is) and they are both going to be by former London Cast members of the musical. Which is a relief for me, because I didn't think she could sing.

There is also rumors, and stated by the director that the music will change. As Joel quoted (where it can be found on www.phantommovie.com under 'articles'), "You have to remember, the orchestrations were done 18 years ago." There has been no word of how they will change the music, but some believe that the words (songs) will change.

Speaking songs: Someone said (unknown sorce) that most of the music used in the London/Broadway will be cut.

As for filming, which started September 15, there is a quote from ALW, (sorce unknown, but can be found quoted under a user at www.fantomedelopera.com) that the begining scene has been filmed, and Lord Webber is pleased.



Just keeping up with the news :)

Stands.

[KayTang999]

I know like may be 4 people on that list.

[Stands Alone]

Same here, same here :(

[droidguy1119]

Alan Cumming is in it, as an opera house owner.

Source: http://movies.yahoo.com/upcoming , search for it by title and read the premise.

[KayTang999]

Now that make it 5 people that I know.

[Stands Alone]

Hmmm, then he must be playing Lèfevre. For I know there is only three theater managers known in the whole musical.

[KayTang999]

May be they change the actor.

[Stands Alone]

They could have, and IMDB is not up to date. But, I am pretty sure is he is playing Lèfevre