Phantom of the Opera (2004)

Not a classic, but a good evening at the movies. While Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical of the classic horror tale avoids going as "dark" as most filmed versions of the story, it is still genuinely brooding and atmospheric, and the music is wonderful. The story of orphan Opera star Christine torn between her mysterious, masked mentor and her childhood sweetheart is as powerful as ever. If a bit too stagy for my taste, it is definitely true to its roots. But why can't anyone remember how to make a musical in the classic sense? You know: stars who can sing and dance, and musical numbers that don't need a "dream sequence" excuse ("Chicago")?
Sigh. I guess I'm dreaming. Anyway, give "Phantom" a "B" for excellent Music of the Night.