Why all of the harsh criticism? I bought the new Phantom of the Opera (2 disc collector's edition), and while it may not even compare to the original Broadway cast recording, I don't believe that it deserves such criticism. While the Brightman/Crawford duo are unbeatable, I must also commend Emmy Rossum and Gerard Butler. They both had to tackle this musical in an entirely NEW way. I, PERSONALLY (my opinion whether you like it or not - that's cool!), thought that the film was OUTSTANDING! G. Butler very much LIVED the part of the Phantom and did an incredible job, and Emmy... well Emmy was simply captivating. The movie sored above my initial expectations and brought me to an entirely new level of appreciation.
BUT people don't like change. Thousands of Phantom fans, including myself, have grown to love and cherish the voices of Sarah Brightman and Michael Crawford in the Original Cast Recording. And it is true that you can't beat the orginal. I, therefore, do not believe that this NEW motion picture deserves such harsh criticism, especially from Phantom fans. This new movie takes us on an entirely new musical adventure. It may feel a bit strange at first, but I think that many people will learn "grasp it, sense it" and ultimately learn to love it. Remember what the Phantom said, "Let you mind start a journey through a STRANGE, new world!" The music is still powerful... please don't forget that!