Oh, wow. What to say about this? First of all, if you are reading this review, you probably know me, which means you probably know I'm one of the hugest fans of the stage show. In fact, I plan to name my first son after the Phantom and the man who originated the role. (Erik and Michael.) I'd heard bad things about this movie from phans but bravely went off to see it anyway. And came back... not wholly satisfied, but not wholly dissatisfied either. Gerard Butler is very weak as the Phantom. Many of his notes were lowered, and his rock-style voice just does not seem to lend itself to the title of "angel of music." Butler also portrays a harsher, less pitiable Phantom, which outraged ME, seeing as I'm one of those who think Christine's nutty for liking that wimp Raoul. However, the rest of the cast did a good job. Emmy Rossum, while not spectacular, was certainly tolerable as Christine, and Patrick Wilson did portray a lovely Raoul. However I think I liked it best for its nostalgia value. Watching this, I was dying to go see the stage show again. If you're a phan, see the movie and try to put up with Butler's singing. If you're not... heck, go for it anyway. But then go see a version on stage as well, because the movie sure isn't perfect.