The Phantom Of The Opera is often regarded as a film classic, but unless you’re a big fan of horror genre or interested the history of filmmaking, you might wonder why. Most of the performances are cringingly melodramatic and the original print is understandably faded, making most of the movie feel blurry and out of focus. So I wouldn’t say I particularly enjoyed it. But there are quite a few things to like about it. First of all, the sets are GORGEOUS, and even though the passage of time has made it often more quaint than spectacular, you do get a sense of awe from some of the larger scenes that are packed full of extras and beautiful décor. And Lon Chaney, Sr. is magnificent. In a silent movie with most of his face covered, he just gives you a wave of his hand or a shrug of his shoulders and you don’t need anything else. His performance here shows why he was one of the most well-remembered actors from the silent era. (And the horrific makeup doesn’t hurt either.) So despite the problems I found in it as a modern viewer, it was definitely worth it. This is a classic more in the reminiscing than in the watching, but still worth a watch for film nerds like me.