Phantom of the Opera (1943 film)

Phantom of the Opera is a 1943 American Technicolor horror film directed by Arthur Lubin, and starring Claude Rains, Susanna Foster, and Nelson Eddy. It was produced by Universal Pictures. The film is a remake of Universal's 1925 silent film of the same name, which was itself based on Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel Le Fantôme de l'Opéra.

While retaining the basic storyline of the disfigured musician haunting the Paris Opera House, the 1943 version significantly altered the plot and tone compared to the novel and the 1925 film. It emphasized musical elements, showcasing opera performances, and shifted away from pure horror towards a more romantic and melodramatic narrative. The film's screenplay was written by George Waggner and John Jacoby (as Curt Siodmak), among others.

Claude Rains portrays Erique Claudin, a violinist at the Paris Opera, who, after losing his hearing and fearing for his livelihood, invests his life savings in a promising new concerto. When he discovers his music has been stolen and not credited, he attempts to reclaim it, resulting in an accident that disfigures his face with acid. Driven mad, he becomes the Phantom, terrorizing the opera house and demanding that his protégé, Christine Dubois (Susanna Foster), be given the lead role. Nelson Eddy plays Anatole Garron, a police captain and baritone who is one of Christine's romantic interests.

The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, winning two: Best Art Direction (Color) and Best Cinematography (Color). Despite its visual splendor and musical sequences, it is often considered a lesser adaptation compared to the 1925 silent version and is noted for its deviations from the source material.