The Phantom Of The Opera (1962)

Set in turn of the 20th century Paris, after the leading lady (Liane Aukin) walks out after strange things (including a murder) happen, a Paris opera house replaces her with an unknown singer (Heather Sears, ROOM AT THE TOP). But a mysterious "phantom" (Herbert Lom) makes it his business to train her. Based on the oft filmed novel by Gaston Leroux and directed by the Hammer veteran, Terence Fisher. As played by Herbert Lom, this Hammer horror features a kinder and less insane Phantom. Indeed, by Hammer standards, this family friendly version is far less lurid and gory than their usual fare such as the DRACULA or MUMMY films. Which is a pity because Michael Gough's despicable Lord D'Arcy deserves a horrible fate! Normally, young lovers are the dreariest part of horror films but the lovely Sears and Edward De Souza are appealing enough that you don't mind them at all. As usual for Hammer, the period settings and costumes are quite handsome for a small budget. The film's short running time caused Universal (who distributed the film) to film new scenes for the TV version to pad out the running time. With Renee Houston and Ian Wilson.