Phantom of the Opera's Raoul: 2004 Movie vs 2014 US National Tour

Some background information: I love musicals.  When I was 9 The Phantom of the Opera (POTO) was on tour across the US.  My dad took me to see it and I was hooked.  That same year the 2004 movie version of POTO was released.  I instantly fell in love and have watched it many, many times since.

This past weekend I was able to see The Phantom of the Opera live twice.  This current tour is the spectacular new production which includes many changes from the apparently not as spectacular old production.  As I was able to see it twice it was twice as enjoyable.

Seeing it live after all of these years has made me think about my love for the movie.  It made me realize some opinions I have that are drastically different for the two representations. However, there is one that stands out above all else.

Raoul. 

I was never a fan of Raoul in the POTO 2004 movie.  Raoul portrayed by Patrick Wilson is, in my opinion, a wimp, whereas the 2014 Tour Raoul was a strong man.  Being a strong man has nothing to do with physical appearance; it's all about presence.  There's something very offsetting about 2004 Raoul.

Something that does NOT help Wilson out in looking like a man is the other leading man: Gerard Butler.  I know there is controversy about Butler's portrayal of the Phantom but it can be agreed that Gerard Butler could quite possibly be the most attractive Phantom there could ever be.  Even with the deformity he still looks like a babe. 

I had always thought I didn't like the character Raoul but now I know that's not it.  I don't like Patrick Wilson's Raoul.  2014 Tour Raoul is a true match against the Phantom for the love of Christine.  

If I was given the chance to choose between the Phantom and Raoul in any scenario I will always choose the Phantom, as Christine should have.  This is made evident in the sequel Love Never Dies, but perhaps we'll have more on that later.  Let's just say remember to always look with your heart!

Cheers,

Shannon Faith