I rather liked this movie because it combined horror and the story of the Phantom of the Opera, which I both enjoy. Robert Englund did a good job as the Phantom both scary and intimidating. I laughed when I heard about his role in this movie because I am a big fan of Nightmare on Elm Street. The idea of using skin for a mask was pretty original idea in place of the death mask and his red death at the masquerade was good as well. There are many details it includes that are from the book that aren't in the 2004 movie.
****SPOILERS****** The rat catcher; The Opera and part in which Christine understudies for La Carlotta, Faust; The attempted suicide by Christine by banging her head against the wall (though on the movie it does not look like she hit her head hard); The wedding march or funeral march ****Spoiler****
I prefer the 2004 because of the music and the romance of it all but it all comes down to the bottom line: If you are looking for gore and horror, this is a good one and not for the weak of stomach. If you are looking for more romance, The 2004 is better.
****SPOILERS****** The rat catcher; The Opera and part in which Christine understudies for La Carlotta, Faust; The attempted suicide by Christine by banging her head against the wall (though on the movie it does not look like she hit her head hard); The wedding march or funeral march ****Spoiler****
I prefer the 2004 because of the music and the romance of it all but it all comes down to the bottom line: If you are looking for gore and horror, this is a good one and not for the weak of stomach. If you are looking for more romance, The 2004 is better.