Brian De Palma’s satirical musical Phantom of the Paradise is a loose adaptation of the baroque classic, Phantom of the Opera. Unlike many of his other, let’s say more serious masterpieces, such as Scarface and The Untouchables, Phantom of the Paradise is outrageous theatrical chaos from start to close. While sticking to some of his well-known techniques such as POV shots, of which are said to have been borrowed from his clear icon, Hitchcock, Palma reaches new depths of insanity through the use of music and a comedic plot.
The story moves fast, following struggling composer, Winslow (William Finley) who has his musical work robbed by the mysterious and notorious producer, Swan (Paul Williams). On attempting to redeem himself and salvage his effort, Winslow is disfigured, causing him to cover his face in a modernised version of the definitive white mask. Cutting a deal with Swan, Winslow agrees to write an innovative masterpiece, in return allowing the woman he loves, Phoenix (Jessica Harper) to perform the entire script. The storyline plunges further down hill as Swan’s evil intentions become apparent, ending in a tragedy fit for a Greek stage.
At times Palma has been condemned for using style over substance, at others praised for it. In this case, it’s quite safe to say that Palma has used his eye to develop an entertaining and humorous watch, which is perhaps a significant contribution to the film’s now cult classic status. From the opening scene in which nostalgic rockabilly band, The Juicy Fruits, perform to a crowd of eager attendants, not one detail goes amiss, with hyperbolised backings and distinctive 70s costumes maintained throughout. Even the actors themselves it seems were made for their roles. It’s hard not to laugh as Winslow’s heavily made up face, resembling a member of daft punk in his leather suit and silver helmet, recoils in horror at the enigmatic Swan, a character so built up only to enter as a 5 ft 2, long blonde haired Lothario. The tongue-in-cheek dialogue matches the eccentrics; it’s exaggerated and at times silly. In particular glam rock God, Beef’s character, played brilliantly by Gerrit Graham, announces his lines in an unexpectedly camp fashion as he minces around his changing room huffing cocaine in preparation for the stage.
There’s too much to say about this film and while Palma’s masterpiece was initially shunned by its critics back in ’74, it is now placed on the highest of many movie-lover’s shelves as a true cult classic. Give it a go and I have no doubt that, much like The Rocky Horror Picture Show, you too will be holding Phantom of the Paradise fancy dress themed parties in years to come. If not then you just aren’t not cool enough.
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