These comments and the reviewers scathy take on this wonderful musical have confirmed my original theory. If you loved Michael Crawford as the Phantom, then you would not like the movie.
I have loved this musical since I first heard it back in 1987. It will always be incredibly special to me for many reasons. I have seen it 3 times on stage with different actors each time. I have enjoyed every Phantom performance for what they were. BUT I was never enthralled with Michael Crawford's Phantom. I know many view this as sacrilige, and no disrespect is meant, but Crawford's voice in this role never did it for me. I can appreciate his talent, but I found his portrayal pompous and a bit overblown. So I have always been open to new interpretations of the role. And, personally, Gerard Butler had me at "Christine" I was not aware of Mr. Butler before this movie, but he made a very positive impression on me during it.
I disagree with much of the reviewers points ( and do agree with one or two) and can't help thinking he wouldn't have been satisfied with anything. He had his heart set on what he thought it should be and nothing else would do.