I'm not sure I buy Raoul falling into gambling and alcoholism, but if he always knew or suspected something about Gustav, then that might make sense. And I guess ALW blew off the ending of the POTO movie as this sequel doesn't take in Raoul's trip to Christine's grave (with her having died at a much older age with 2 children, I think, and Raoul not realizing the Phantom still lived). This Australian cast was wonderful. I don't like shrill monotonous tenors (as some stage Phantoms have been), but Ben Lewis' voice was emotional and enticing. The overall tone of the show and setting was even darker than POTO, and quite kinky with the Coney Island characters, but I guess that reflects the Phantom's borderline madness or bipolar condition--whatever label you can put him. I also like that except for some bars of "Love Never Dies" most of the music was in a range where the singers weren't straining to both form the words and hit the high notes. I hope to get a Region 1 (or region-free) DVD soon and also have the chance to see the show on stage in the Washington, DC area.
Clyde Shelton (Gerard Butler) and Nick Rice (Jamie Foxx) are excellent frenemies. They sympathize with each other, in a way, as each teaches the other a lesson in dispensing justice. Butler is credible as the crushed father and husband who believes he must use his unique skills and talent to make an example of a justice system that has forgotten the victims. Foxx is an arrogant self-serving assistant district attorney who is only concerned with his conviction rate as he claws his way up the justice system ladder. But when he has a family of his own, he begins to see Clyde's point, yet he cannot give in to all of Clyde's demands to stop the carnage. Beautifully filmed in a noir tone with excellent timing on the stunts and effects.
Fun concept, quirky characters and plot. Loved, loved, loved the character of Bang Bang. Who needs dialogue to express your feelings? She sure didn't and she was one of the best characters in the film. Hey, Harpo Marx, have I got a girl for you!