An Open Letter to Antonio Banderas
Total: 280 guests
| Name: Katy Jessup Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Indiana Time: 2000-05-10 10:36:53 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I was possessed to write this because I cannot stand the way so many of the other people who wrote to you speak. I am a huge fan of yours. "Evita" is my favorite movie. You made the role of "Che", and no one (including Michael Crawford) could ever live up to it. On the other hand, Mr. Crawford made the role of "Phantom", and no one (not even you) could ever live up to it. Thank you for your time and understanding. |
| Name: jana ploss Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: lompoc,ca Time: 2000-05-09 11:36:55 Comments: Mr Banderas--cannot you take a hint? Phans do not wish you to raze the role of the Phantom. Not only do the women not want you, the men do not want you in the role. I saw the Phantom with Mr Crawford. I heard the women's sighs over his performance. I heard the men's envious conversations in the mezzanine. I listened to how they would bring their female counterparts in tow by emulating Mr Crawford, at least by purchasing more tickets to more productions where he partook. You can either make or break this movie. Make it by gracefully bowing out. Break it by murdering the aspirations of many Crawford phans who never saw him perform the role, but wanted to see him; and phans who want to see him perform the role forever in picture and on video. You are no Phantom. Please stick to your swash-bucklers and leave the Phantom alone! |
| Name: Melissa
Bashardoust Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Los Angeles Time: 2000-05-08 20:55:18 Comments: PLEASE do NOT take the role of the Phantom! Michael Crawford DESERVES the role. He IS the Phantom, and should always be. No offense, but you do not have the strength, power, or lightness, to sing the part of Erik. Phans around the world will feel SOOO grateful if you turn this role down. I reeeeally want to see Michael Crawford in the role of the Phantom. TURN DOWN THIS ROLE!! PLEASE?? |
| Name: JOYCE
CEBULAR Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: clearfield, pa. Time: 2000-05-08 11:18:49 Comments: an open letter to Antonio, dear sir, i'm pleased to hear that you have been chosen to play in the movie, but please reconsider, and ask Andrew, please recast you as the viscount, and give the phantom lead to MICHAEL Crawford, he has done the role to perfection on the stage many times, and has the musical training to do the music to perfection. you are far better suited for the demanding role of the viscount, and your musical talents would be displayed, as well.I truly feel that this movie is meant for both of you fine young men and actors. it would be oscar material, and that would do the classic, which this book is, great justice. |
| Name: Melissa Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Los Angeles, CA Time: 2000-04-29 18:53:11 Comments: Mr. Banderas, now, I have not heard you sing, and I have not seen you act, but I HAVE heard Michael Crawford as Erik--the Phantom--, and I know he is the one and only Phantom. I am absolutely DYING to see him play in this role. Pretty pretty please refuse to play the part of the Phantom. Did you know that Cary Grant turned down the role of Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady for Rex Harrison? And look what a big success that was. Cary Grant is my favorite actor, but I cannot picture him as Professor Higgins. Honestly, I cannot picture you singing 'You alone can make my song take flight, help me make the music of the night.' Michael Crawford is the true Phantom. One final question: Have you even read the book? |
| Name: John Bednarz Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Southgate Michigan Time: 2000-04-27 19:21:52 Comments: Dear Tony... I Will Not Lie Or Feed You A line Of Crap, You Can't Sing Or Act All That Well Either.. So I Don't Know Who's Putting This Idea In Your Mind To Be Erik Or Even Raoul. Please Do Everyone A Favor And Turn Down Any Part In The Phantom Of The Opera Movie. Let A Real Actor/Singer Like Mr. Crawford Do The Role He Was Destined To Do. You Have Had Enough Bombs In Your Career Already Are You Sure You Would Like To Take A Masterpiece Like The Phantom And Make A Musical Comedy Out Of It. Every Man Should Know His Limitations. Time For You To Wake Up,Pal |
| Name: Thomas
Knapp Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Germantown, New York Time: 2000-04-26 07:41:14 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, As a fan of yours I beg you to step down from this role. Please allow Mr. Crawford the opportunity to immortalize his stage role for the ages. Sometimes its risky business to challenge the will of the people and try to replace a legend. Mr. Crawford is "The Phantom of the Opera" to millions of fans around the world. Do not under-estimate his popularity. The backlash could end ones career. VRTK |
| Name: Judy Young Website: Referred by: AOL From: San Diego Time: 2000-04-24 16:13:46 Comments: Dear Mr. Bandaras, I do admire your talent greatly however,I cannot understand why you want to hide your handsome face behind a mask and makeup. The Phantom is an older man who has been hiding in the catacombs for years. You would be perfect as Raoul! Crawford and Bandaras what an incredible draw!!! |
| Name: Terrasa
Merchant Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: florida Time: 2000-04-20 18:25:54 Comments: please do not take this role :( |
| Name: George
Kelsey Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Salt Lake City Time: 2000-04-11 10:35:30 Comments: Mr. Banderas, please do not take up the role of the Phantom! It is my opinion, and the opinion of so many others that the only Phantom who can really do the part is Michael Crawford. He really has the vocal range, the sheer acting prowess, and skill to play the part. Do everybody (including yourself) a favor, PLEASE DO NOT SING THE ROLE OF THE PHANTOM!!! Thank you, George Kelsey |
| Name: marina
redford Website: Le Fantome De L'Opera Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: United Kingdom Time: 2000-04-09 12:05:27 Comments: Antonio Banderas, out of the hundreds of entries here, I don't see how or why you should read mine, but in case you do, I can only add my voice to the hundreds of others chanting "Michael Crawford is the Phantom". I have only seen The Phantom Of The Opera once (with Mike Sterling as the Phantom). I couldn't see why everyone wanted Michael Crawford to be in the movie. I wondered how he could be different from Mike Sterling, yourself, and the other actors who have, or possibly will portray the Phantom character. I had seen yourself in Evita, and fell in love with the character Che, merely because of your voice and style. I thought that you would be wonderful as the Phantom. "What changed?" I hear you ask. Well, I had the wonderful experience of watching Michael Crawford perform last night at the Edinburgh Playhouse, and immediately I stopped wondering why everyone was obsessed with him. I have no idea whether you've seen him perform, or not, but I feel compelled to regale some of Michael's qualities: 1) The Phantom character is always seemingly present on stage. He knows everything that goes on in the Paris Opera house. Michael has the stage presence that conveys this. He has the ability to focus the audiences attention on himself. 2) The Phantom has led a solitary, sad life, and is experiencing love for the first time with Miss Christine Daae. The emotions that come with such an act are new, and powerful to him. Michael has a voice which can also convey this. His voice can be "hard as lightning, soft as candlelight" at the same time. 3) Michael does not move across the stage, he simply glides, with the grace of the Phantom. All of my preconcieved notions of what Michael would be like on stage, flew out of the window as soon as his voice possesed me and melted my soul. In that moment, I knew that he was the only one who could bring the Phantom's terrifying, yet beautiful qualities to life. From what I see and hear, you have not yet been offered the role of the Phantom, and I do not know whether you have any wish to accept the role, should you be offered it. I (and the millions of Phantom Phans) can only hope that if you are offered, and accept the role of the Phantom, that you also will be able to portray the Phantom's magical qualities, for if you are not able to... well, I'm quite sure that you are aware of the possible consequences. All that is left for me to say is: Consider yourself in the role of the Phantom. Imagine yourself singing "Close your eyes, let your spirit start to soar..." powerfully and entrancingly yet with a softness likened to "candlelight, angel light, firelight and star glow" and then imagine yourself singing "You will curse the day you did not do, all that the Phantom asked of you" with the heart rendering force that is needed. Do you now still see yourself in the role of the Phantom? I think that everyone involved in the casting of the Phantom, including yourself, Mr. Banderas, should remember those all important four lines, as sung by Michael, in the role of the Phantom: "I gave you my music, made your song take wing... and now how you've repaid me... denied me and betrayed me..." Fate chose Michael for a reason, the same reason Lord Webber wrote the role of Christine for Sarah. Sarah and Michael created the roles of Christine and the Phantom, and for Sarah to be chosen for the movie, and not Michael, is a slap in the face to all of the fans. Without Michael Crawford, the Phantom would simply not exist. I am sorry to have taken up so much of your time, Mr. Banderas, but I hope that you now understand why a lot of Phantom Phans (including myself) think that Michael is the only actor for the afore-mentioned role. In sixty or seventy years, I hope that I'll be able to tell my grandchildren about one of the greatest actors of all time, who stepped down to allow the fans the pleasure of seeing the only Phantom in the movie of The Phantom Of The Opera. In stepping down, Mr Banderas, you not only earn my respect, but the respect of millions across the world. Thank-you, with love, Marina. |
| Name: John
Miller Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Pennsylvania, USA Time: 2000-04-07 21:39:11 Comments: All I have to say to you is, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!", ahem, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!" Have a nice day! |
| Name: Debbie
Chapman Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Chapin, South Carolina Time: 2000-04-07 14:35:37 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, No offense to you, but Michael Crawford is the only wise choice for this role. I hope you will recognize this and allow the real phantom to "appear". respectfully, Debbie |
| Name: Aaron Michael
Clement Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Utah Time: 2000-03-31 09:24:43 Comments: Dear A.B All I have to say is the role is not for you and you should stay away from the role of the Phantom let The real Phantom play his role. Michael Crawford is the phantom and no one and I mean no one can take his place. Just to let you know I did like you in evita and to also let you know I have not seen any of your movies but Evita.. Here is why When I found out that you were asked to play the phantom in the movie and I saw you on Andrews 50th Birthday celibration I thought that I could not support you in any movie but Evtia I would have to say that you are a limited actor/ Performer. So I think you know what I mean so leave Phantom to the Pros.. :) |
| Name: Maren Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Minnesota Time: 2000-03-29 14:34:17 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, As a fan, I greatly appreciate the work you have done as an actor. I am an actress in an amateur youth theatre in my hometown, so I can understand what it is like for you to be offered such a role as the PHANTOM. However, I (and many others) would appreciate it if you would step down from that role. Michael Crawford is the original PHANTOM, and I believe that it would be best for everyone if Mr. Crawford was permitted to once again become the PHANTOM we all love and adore. Sincerely yours, Maren |
| Name: Alyssa
Parker Website: none Referred by: From a Friend From: Virginia Time: 2000-03-29 10:40:05 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas I am a (rather young, 15) fan of "Phantom" and I'd greatly appreciate it if you would step down and let Michael Crawford be the Phantom in this movie. I know you will get other offers for other movies and I want my children to, one day, be able to see "Phantom" as it was originally. Please, please step down, if not for me, for other future Phantom fans! Sincerely, Alys |
| Name: Julie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Montana Time: 2000-03-26 11:44:10 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I think you are a wonderful actor, and Evita is one of my favorite movies! You had a pretty good sucess with Evita, and I enjoyed it very much. However, for the Phantom of the Opera movie, I would be so greatful if the original Phantom, Mr. Crawford could play the PHANTOM. I know it must be a great honor for you to be asked, but so many people would appreciate it if you would step down. We have nothing against you, in fact you are one of my favorite actors! I just want to see Mr. Crawford perform his star role himself, he is the PHANTOM, and I would appreciate it so much if he could always be the PHANTOM. I have nothing against you at all, if you could just understand, I just want Mr. Crawford to be casted in his rightful role. I'm sure you will have many other opportunities, but this may be Mr. Crawford's one chance to touch everyone's heart again in his enthralling role of the Phantom. Please, please, please, I would be so grateful if Mr. Crawford could play his rightful role. I am still one of your great friends, I just don't think this role is for you, I'd be so grateful if Mr. Crawford could play it! Try to understand. Thanks, Julie |
| Name: donna Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Phoenix, AZ Time: 2000-03-23 21:27:37 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I am going to talk about a great actor, a legend if you will. I am sure you have heard of him, his name is Cary Grant. You see he was offered a very wonderful role and he turned it down. He turned it down because he knew that Rex Harrison, the actor who WAS the role was the best one to perform it on film. Not only did he turn it down he also informed Warner Bros. (hmm, you think they would learn their lesson) that if they did not have Rex Harrison portray the role he would never do another Warner Bros. picture. I believe James Cagney was offered the same role and responded the same way. What true actors, what true masters of the arts and what gentlemen. Thank goodness for all of us that those two gentlemen thought more of the integrity of the theater, the fans who would be watching and the over all beauty of the role and the outcome of the show. They thought more of that than they did of their wallets and their egos. They were true stars and gentlemen. Please Mr. Banderas follow their example. Show us all that you are more concerned with upholding the integrity and beauty of Phantom of the Opera. Show us all that you too are a gentleman. Please, if offered the role of the Phantom, turn it down. Tell them that if they don't give it to Michael Crawford you will never do another movie with Warner Bros. Wouldn't you rather go down in movie history that way, instead of as the actor who tried to portray the Phantom in a movie that was a box office failure. Mr. Banderas look at all the attention this is getting. Look at all the phans who want Michael Crawford to play the Phantom in the movie. How can you even consider taking the role, when you know how passionate the phans are about this. Ultimately the movie is for the fans, please give us what we want. We want Michael Crawford as the Phantom. I have enjoyed your work in many different movies. But to be brutally honest, if you play the part of the Phantom in the movie, I along with about a million other fans will not enjoy you in that role, nor will I ever watch you in another film, special, tv show, concert, etc. Michael Crawford is and always will be the Phantom of the Opera. Be a gentleman Mr. Banderas, be a gentleman. Thank-you Donna |
| Name: Steven M. Lurie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Bergen County, New Jersey Time: 2000-03-21 23:46:51 Comments: Please allow Michael Crawford to have filmed his wonderful performance as The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. Thank you. Steve Lurie |
| Name: Janet
Jamilkowski Website: Referred by: Geocities From: Clinton, CT, USA Time: 2000-03-21 21:02:48 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas. You have a fine singing voice, are an excellent actor, and if you do become the Phantom, then I shall go see it--but reluctantly. It is your FACE that I want to see, sir, and how can THAT be possible in this movie? Please reconsider... peace. Jan J |
| Name: Erin Website: None Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Lancaster, PA Time: 2000-03-19 12:53:04 Comments: Antonio, you really do have a great voice, I just don't think it's the best voice for Phantom. I'm sorry, but something with the Spanish accent just doesn't sound right. Now, I love hearing you in songs from Evita, and so on, but please, don't take a role that might just not be right for you! |
| Name: Alex Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New York City Time: 2000-03-17 04:53:09 Comments: OK, you're a great actor, but It takes more than just a great actor to play the role of the phantom. You have a really nice voice, but it just doesn't suit the part. Sure, Michael Crawford used to be a little stick running around in "Hello Dolly," but he has since then matured into an outstanding actor and his voice is the best thing that ever happened to the theater business. He can act, and he sure can sing. Please, he has said he'd like to play the role in the movie (granted, he might turn it down), but PLEASE give him a chance to take the role or decline it. I'm sure that any day now you will be offered a role that is more suitable for you. Please do the right thing and match the right person with the right role. Michael Crawford IS the most suitable for the role, and even the largest of actors should be able to admit that to themselves. If not, they shouldn't be in the business. After all, I'd hate to see anyone EXCEPT Michael Crawford sing "Music Of The Night" in front of millions in movie theaters. Please consider my plea. Respectfully Yours, Alexandra Horn |
| Name: Christine
or Christy Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Portland, Maine Time: 2000-03-15 14:36:39 Comments: Hi Mr. Banderas. I am just saying, weren't you already in Evita? |
| Name: Maggie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY Time: 2000-03-14 20:08:44 Comments: In recent weeks I have twice listened to the complete London cast recording of Phantom of the Opera as well as looked again at your appearance on Andrew Lloyd Webber's 50th birthday show. I wanted to be certain I had made an objective comparison between Michael Crawford's voice and yours. It reaffirmed my initial judgment. There is no way to compare your voices because they exist on entirely different levels. He is a professional; you are an amateur. I can see why you want to play Erik, the Phantom. There is a mystique about him that must be attractive to many actors. What you don't seem to understand is where that mystique comes from. It is largely Michael Crawford's creation. The Phantom of the Opera has always been a story about a man obsessed with music, but it had never before had its own musical score. Andrew Lloyd Webber created the perfect music to match the story's drama and passion. He also made a brilliant choice of a singer/actor to interpret that music. Michael Crawford and Erik were the serendipitous blending of the perfect actor and the perfect role. As an actor you surely know that not every actor can play every part. You claim that you saw Michael Crawford perform in Phantom of the Opera. If that is true, then how can you honestly believe you can play that part? Forget for a moment the sensuous gestures and graceful movements that caused a sensation with audiences. Just consider the singing. Michael Crawford's voice has been classically trained for nearly 25 years. He practices daily and pampers his voice like a priceless instrument. As a result, it has incredible substance. It has authority and resonance. Listen carefully to him singing the Phantom music. His voice can soar to falsetto one moment and plunge to a baritone the next. It can whisper caressingly and hiss with menace. It is both angelic and demonic. It can command, threaten and seduce. The role demands an unusually high degree of versatility and professionalism, and Michael Crawford met those demands brilliantly. He set a standard so high that few other actors have come close to matching it. You are inviting the most intense scrutiny you have ever experienced if you play this role. There isn't a single critic or entertainment journalist who is unaware of our campaign to keep you from playing the Phantom. Every step in the making of this movie will be closely watched, and when the movie is released your performance will be analyzed microscopically and mercilessly. These people know Michael Crawford's triumphant history with Phantom, and every gesture you make and every nuance of every note you sing will be compared to his performance. Few actors have ever had to live up to a legend like this one. I believe with all my heart that you are making the worst mistake of your professional life with this decision. You are admittedly an amateur singer. In spite of what you and Andrew Lloyd Webber think, you are unprepared and unfit to perform such a demanding role and I guarantee you will regret the day you made the choice to do it. Please change your mind before you cause irreparable harm to your career and alienate the vast number of people who want Michael Crawford--not you--to star in the Phantom movie. |
| Name: Walt
Pleimann Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Colorado Springs, CO Time: 2000-03-14 07:55:02 Comments: Antonio: Raoul is definitely the part for you..please preserve that wonderful Phantom role for the original...Michael Crawford..Yul Brynner WAS THE "KING" as Michael IS THE PHANTOM!...please do your career a great service and pick the parts wisely. Challenge your acting in other areas and let this one for Michael! Thanks.. |
| Name: Calvin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Los Angeles Time: 2000-03-13 21:48:26 Comments: Mr. Antonio Banderas: I've seen your performance with Sara Brightman and in Evita. Your particular and distinctive voice does not match the voice quality and characteristic of the Phantom, which I believe only Michael Crawfort can deliver. After seeing various other broadway performances, I don't believe anyone else can deliver the same caliper of voice charisma and character as Michael Crawford. Truly, Calvin |
| Name: Ken Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego, CA Time: 2000-03-12 02:36:09 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I'm sure that you are just following your instincts in trying to obtain the role of the Phantom in the film version of "Phantom of the Opera". You're an actor and it's an exciting role in a hugely successful stage musical. Perhaps you see it as a challenge, one that will stretch your talents to a new level. And I'm sure that it would. However, the role was created by someone who breathed passion into the character, primarily by his incredible voice. Erik is called "The Angel of Music". Music is the most important thing in his world and his voice must convey that to the audience. It must mesmerize, enchant, seduce, excite, and frighten. And it must have the range to sing the song that makes Christine fall under his spell, "The Music of the Night". It is the Phantom's song and giving it to Christine to sing makes no sense. I'm sure by now you have seen the PBS concert that Michael Crawford did two years ago. Can you watch and hear him sing the music from POTO and imagine that you could do as well? If not, then don't let them change the score, the dialogue, the lyrics, and the story just to suit you. You can do any number of action pictures and your fans will love you, but this one musical could be disastrous to your career. Your Phantom will forever be compared to Michael Crawford's. And guess which ones the POTO fans will choose? They've already chosen. They've been telling you loud and clear, ever since your name came up in connection with this film. Roaul is a better part for you. Your handsome face will be in view. You get to sing a very romantic duet and you get the girl. Your fans will love you for it. And the Phans will sing your praises. Just let us have Michael Crawford for the Phantom and we'll all be happy. That goes for ALW and Warners. They'll make more money and that's what the movie business is all about. Right? |
| Name: JOYCE
CEBULAR Website: NO HOME PAGE Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: CLEARFIELD,PA. Time: 2000-03-11 21:57:53 Comments: HI MR. BANDEROS,JUST A NOTE TO LET YOU KNOW THAT I'VE ENJOYED YOUR FILMS,IN THE PAST. BUT I PERSONALLY DO NOT THINK, ARE FITTED FORTHE ROLE AS PHANTOM. THAT ROLE WAS CREATED, BY MICHAEL CRAWFORD, WH PUT A WHOLE RANGE OF EMOTIONS, IN HIS SONGS ANDTHE PART. I REALLY THNK YOU ARE MORE SUITED TO PLAY THEROLE OF---RAOUL, WHAT WITH YOUR SPANISH HERITAGE, ANDYOUR DARK EYES AND GOOD LOOKS. WHAT PERFECT VISCOUNT YOUWOULD BE. MR. LAROUX CERTAINLY DID NOT HAVE YOU IN MINDWHEN HE WROTE THE BOOK 'PHANTOM OF THE OPERA'.I AM MORE INCLINED TO BELIEVE, HE HAD MICHAEL CRAWFORD, INMIND, IF MR. LAROUX WERE ALIVE TODAY TO DO THE FILM.SIR ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER, WOULD DO A GREAT INJUSTICE TO THEBOOK, AND THE PLAY, THAT MADE HIM LOTS OF MONEY, SO, PLEASEBE A GREAT SPANISH GENTLEMAN, AND STEP ASIDE AND LET MICHAELCRAWFORD DO THE ROLE HE CREATED. |
| Name: FreakyMartian Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 2000-03-11 04:01:44 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, There is no doubt that you are a talented actor and you have established that you can sing. You have sixteen fansites on Yahoo! However I, along with many other Phantom of the Opera fans, must ask you to please decline the role Andrew Lloyd Webber and Warner Brothers has offered you as the Phantom. Michael Crawford delighted audiences in NY, London and Los Angeles as the original captivating Phantom and he deserves credit onscreen as the original as well. The rest of the world needs to know what we've known for so long about Mr. Crawford, but the rest of the world already knows who you are and has seen proof of your acting talent in your past films. Please, give the Phans what they want! Thank you! FreakyMartian |
| Name: Margaret Bupp Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Clearwater Fl. Time: 2000-03-11 01:17:11 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas Please don't deprive the world from seeing Michael Crawford as the Phantom. The world knows only him to be the Phantom. You will be known for your great rolls , but he is known as the Phantom. Please let the world know what a great person you are by declining the roll so he will accept. Thank You Margaret Bupp |
| Name: carol buescher Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: washington,missouri Time: 2000-03-10 16:23:08 Comments: Banderis---give it up. You are not now, and never will be the Phantom. |
| Name: Tim Landry Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: USA Time: 2000-03-10 07:26:48 Comments: Phantom without Crawford is like King and I without Brynner or Music Man without Robert Preston. |
| Name: Lisa Rakebrand Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: New Jersey Time: 2000-03-09 13:39:16 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I am a fan of your work in Evita...you did a fantastic job and I listen to my cd quite regularly. That being said, I have to tell you that Michael Crawford deserves to play the Phantom in the movie adaptation. He IS the Phantom, and is also the perfect age now to play the part in the movie. You would be a great Rauol, but Mr. Crawford will always be the Phantom. I wouldn't be able to bring myself to see a movie that casted the lead to anyone else. I don't think that a movie production of this wonderful musical would do very well without the original, true Angel of Music. |
| Name: Cassie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Texas Time: 2000-03-08 21:10:37 Comments: Dearest Antonio, I think you are a great talent. I saw the clip of you and Sarah, and I think that your voice would be perfect...FOR RAOUL! I also saw the clip of MICHAEL and Dale, and I know that there is NO ONE for the Phantom but Michael. He started it, so it's only right that he should play the role. Thank you. |
| Name: Luann Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Sacramento Ca. Time: 2000-03-07 14:09:46 Comments: Mr. Banderas I would like to say that you have a nice voice and can sing fairly well. I enjoy listening to my CD of Evita. I know you would really love to play the Phantom in the movie version of The Phantom of the Opera. I think the gentlemanly thing to do here is let the man that really put the life into the phantom play the role. I think you would make a wonderful Raoul and he ends up with the girl in the end anyway, besides the fact that he is on stage more than the phantom. You are a good-looking man so why would you want to hide your fabulous face behind all that makeup? You know as well as any one else that Michael Crawford should be the one to portray the Phantom. There are so many Michael Crawford fans out here in the general public, people who go to the movies and are banding together. If you make them all mad by not doing the honorable thing by stepping down you just might find a boycott of your movies by them all. You’re a great actor and I enjoy your movies a lot but I think you would do the world an injustice if you push ahead and insist on the Phantom role. Not to mention I don’t think the film will do all that well with all the protest that will be taking place over the injustice to Michael Crawford. Please do the right thing and let Michael Crawford play the part he is best known for. |
| Name: Rasmus
Rimestad Website: Ordets sky Referred by: NewsGroups From: Norway, Skien Time: 2000-03-02 08:24:57 Comments: Dear Antonio Banderas To start off, I want to make it clear that I have nothing against you personally. You are a great actor and I've loved you in both Evita and the Zorro-movies I've seen. But you are not the actor I would want in "The Phantom of the Operah". Please decline the offer for this role. If you don't you risk loosing me as a fan. Yours sincerely Rasmus Rimestad |
| Name: Katy Jessup Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Waterloo, IN Time: 2000-02-17 23:01:13 Comments: Mr. Banderas: I wanted to say that as far as I'm concerned Michael Crawford is the ONLY "Phantom". I'm not here to criticize you, for you are my favorite actor. The first time I saw "Evita" I was blown away. If anyone is to play the "Phantom" on film it should definitely be Mr. Crawford. On the other hand, if for some reason he was unable to do so, I would want it to be you. Respectfully yours, Katy Jessup |
| Name: florence
ritter Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Time: 2000-02-15 18:16:41 Comments: My Daer Sir As you have heard,the role of the 'Phantom',is a very detailed part. I truly believe that,someone,who has had great experience,should do this role in the movie version. To be honest,I do have a tape that shows different songs of 'Phantom',sung by different people,including Mr. Crawford. THEY DO NOT HAVE WHAT IT TAKES! I saw 'Evita',and was impressed by your singing,but,you could never be my 'PHANTOM'! I thank you for your time and truly hope,for the sake of the people who love the 'Phantom',you will decline the role. You are a fine man,but,not the man for 'Phantom'. |
| Name: Chuck F Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: FLORIDA! Time: 2000-02-12 16:41:35 Comments: Dear Sir, I must admit something to you. As many POTO fans there are, there are VERY FAMILIAR with the lyrics. I shall now recite a few, "Should these demands be ignored, a disaster beyond your imagination will occur...Si, atleast he (michael crawford) make it sound like music". I hold your acting abilities in the upmost respect, but, your singing capabilities REQUIRED for the show, are however, not up to par. I believe your portrayal of Che in EVITA was impressive. But, I hold Michael Crawford in the highest bid 'cause he is the phantom. Have you read Susan Kay's "Phantom"? If not sir, i HIGHLY recommend you read what your voice calls for. I highly recommend you also, read my open letter to ALW for further insistence on my feelings. I believe those who read this will see that my writings are true and from the heart. I believe you would fit suitably in the portrayal of Raoul. handsome, charming, suave, but you sir, are no Phantom. :) thank you for your time, sir. |
| Name: Marilyn Adamo Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New York Time: 2000-02-10 15:30:36 Comments: Antonio, you are cute, but you are no Phantom. Maybe Che wasn't such a stretch, but the Phantom is Michael Crawford. This role needs a real voice. Yours isn't bad, but again, you are no Phantom. Make a wise business decision and decline the offer. |
| Name: AnneMarie
Lowell Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New York City Time: 2000-02-08 16:41:04 Comments: You are a great talent. I write this as a professional actress, singer and writer (screen and other endeavors) I say this. But please, PLEASE -- the Phantom belongs to Michael Crawford. For the sake of ego, whatever - don't let happen to you what happened to Barbra Streisand when "Hello, Dolly!" was cast. Forever, it's there for the world to see and tsk-tsk. Be as gracious a man as you are a great talent and politely withdraw yourself from the film casting of "Phantom of the Opera." |
| Name: Mollie Duck
McBride Website: Referred by: AOL From: Tulsa, Oklahoma Time: 2000-02-06 21:04:36 Comments: Antonio, as you can tell, as much as so many of us adore you, your voice, and your work, and would love to see you as Raoul ... Phantom is simply not an option for you as far as we Phantom Phanatics are concerned. Keep your career on the right track ... stick to Raoul! No one can or will ever fill the shoes of the great Michael Crawford, and it would be a grave mistake for anyone to ever even attempt to do so. Thank you, Mollie |
| Name: Joanne Daley Website: Referred by: AngelFire From: Illinois Time: 2000-01-29 21:09:36 Comments: I would only like to see you in the Phantom of the Opera movie if you would play the part of Raoul and I'm sure this is the role your fans would want too. Michael Crawford IS the phantom although I would love to see him in a movie without his mask. |
| Name: MFestin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 2000-01-29 09:28:55 Comments: I agree with the comments that you were indeed good in Evita. I also agree that you may not be right for the Phantom role, which Michael Crawford had exceled in. You might be forever be compared to him if you get into that role. I also agree that the Raoul part may be just right for you. |
| Name: craig Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: texas Time: 2000-01-28 22:22:20 Comments: Mr. Banderas, There is certainly no question of your talent in Film. As a true artist, you must realize the importance of having the right man in the part. Michael IS the phantom. I would love to see you in the role of Raoul!! You would be perfect! I can't imagine anyone buy Michael doing the part of the Phantom. He created that role and is (in my opinion)still the best for that role. |
| Name: James
Henley Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego Time: 2000-01-21 16:13:57 Comments: I have seen PTO 9 times. 3 times w/Davis Gaines, once w/Robert G., recently w/Brad Little and 4 times w/Michael Crawford. I saw Evita on stage 3 times with very diverse cats and own the DVD of Evita where you play Che. You where outstanding in that role. I also saw you perform on AWL's 50th B-day party. As loyal PTO phan and the fact I have seen the show so many times in my opinion casting you as the Phantom does not do the part justice it deserves. I believe you are more vocally suited for role Roul. Please reconsider you desire play the part of Phantom. A devoted Phantom phan JMH |
| Name: Melanie
Young Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Martin, TN USA Time: 2000-01-20 06:14:25 Comments: I agree, Mr. Banderas, with statements made by many that you are a fine actor and did a great job with the role of Che in EVITA. However, the thought of you in the role of Erik (as well as the fact that I saw your performance on the ALW 50th Birthday Celebration) frankly horrifies me. I would love to see you in the role of Raoul because I believe you have the ability to handle it well and with the dignity it also deserves. Michael is able to do something that you can't remotely understand...he is able to tap into the soul of Erik to the point that he is no longer Michael Crawford...he IS The Phantom. That is a rare gift he gives to us all. Please don't take away the chance for him to share that with so many POTO fans that never were able to see him perform in onstage. This movie can be a musical masterpiece or it can be another musical with movie star-big names. You are a very talented man, but you, dear sir, are not The Phantom. |
| Name: Laura Organa Solo Website: The Qui-Gon Jinn Discussion List Referred by: Lycos From: California Time: 2000-01-16 08:37:31 Comments: I have been an Antonio Banderas fan since Mambo Kings in 1991 but you, sir, are no Erik. :o) I can say nothing more because John Miller spoke my heart in msg 219. Michael Crawford is the one, true Phantom to me and it would be a sad thing to see someone so completely un-Erik get the role (No offense, of course. Antonio Banderas is a fine actor indeed). The role belongs to Michael Crawford: the first and only (in my opinion) Phantom of the Opera. |
| Name: Bob
Abdich Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Alabama Time: 2000-01-12 21:00:46 Comments: Mr. Banderas. You were an excellent choice for "Che" in Evita. Your vocal range and talent was perfect for that role. However, I don't think that you will make as effective a "Phantom" as Michael Crawford. Please consider stepping down and letting the fans see the best actor in the role. |
| Name: John Miller Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Pennsylvania Time: 1999-12-31 19:23:28 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I hold nothing personal against you or your work. However, it is very clear that the fans want THEIR Phantom, the one man who has the essence of Erik within him. That man is Michael Crawford. Mr. Crawford is my idol. And, unfortunately, outside of video clips from shows, I've never seen him perform. For those of us who couldn't see him perform live, this movie would be a Godsend. So please, reconsider your bid for the role as the Phantom. Grant it to the man who is the rightful heir to the Phantom's throne. |
| Name: Meg Fantine Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New York Time: 1999-12-29 04:28:39 Comments: Yo Antonio! In case you haven't noticed most fans want Michael Crawford! We feel thatmost Phantom fans are the ones who will be going to see the Phantom of the Opera and if most fans want Michael Crawford then not very many peeps will be seeing the movie! We just wanted to enlighten you with this info! |
| Name: Jaime
Dawn Crawford. Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Australia. Time: 1999-12-28 14:06:16 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I would just like to say that the role of THE PHANTOM---MUST go to Mr. Michael Crawford;---he was born for the role of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA---HIS ROLE! I certainly do not mean any disrespect to you, Mr. Banderas, but---the role of ERIK cannot be played by anybody else but Mr. Crawford. It would be like:---birds swimming in the ocean and fish flying in the sky---if anybody else was to play the part---it would just make no sense at all whatsoever. PLEASE, MR. BANDERAS, it's got to be MR. MICHAEL CRAWFORD. Thank you, Kindest Regards, Jaime Crawford. {No Relation---unfortunately}. |
| Name: Megan
Gilbert Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Pennsylvania Time: 1999-12-27 05:16:09 Comments: I can do nothing but repeat what over 200 people have said before me, but one more repetition might just do the trick, eh? I think, respectfully, that this is a role you should never have been offered. It was a mistake and betrayal on the part of those who made the offer, and you should insist they keep the promise they made to someone who is guaranteed not to make a mockery of himself by not being able to sing the beautiful and beloved ~original~ songs. I'd personally hate to see the Broadway or London shows have to close because someone was told "I've seen the movie, don't waste your money." |
| Name: Jeff Sherman Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Virginia Time: 1999-12-21 07:11:54 Comments: Mr Banderas, I have been a long time fan of yours and thought that you did a wonderful job as Che in Evita. However, I do not believe that you could properly do the same justice to the role of Phantom as Michael Crawford can. Please do the right thing and step down from consideration. |
| Name: CHRIS BURNS Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: St. Pete, FL. Time: 1999-12-17 07:06:55 Comments: This is by no way a demeaning letter, please, however, reconsider the part of the Phantom. There have been many envious fans of Michael(I being one of them) who have been robbed of the chance to see his performance as THE PHANTOM. His voice sends chills up people's spines as the true essence of the Phantom is revealed. Had he not made such an impact on the world with his debut, this issue would be null and void, however, as Richard Kiley will always be Don Quixote, Michael Crawford will always be the one, the only true PHANTOM. Thank you. CHris |
| Name: Hayley Marie
Christine Witthans Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Minneapolis, Minnesota Time: 1999-12-12 21:08:47 Comments: Dear Antonio, I know that it may be sickening to hear from me again, but I promise you that I won't bother you much more. I just wanted to say that after hearing your voice and viewing this guestbook, I got a new idea. I saw many people write that you would be a good Raoul when they told you to let Michael play the Phantom. I thought about it, especially when I came home from school every day to eat supper. I then thought it would be a wonderful idea for you to play Raoul. Here are my reasons: 1)You and Sarah Brightman are about the same age. So were Raoul and Christine in the story. You both are very young and very young looking. And of course Michael Crawford is better agewise as of playing the Phantom. 2)Your voice is perfect for the role. Steve Barton was originally wonderful, and Michael Ball is pretty good too, but as I imagine you singing in "All I Ask of You" with Sarah, it sounds wonderful! Keep singing! 3)You do get the girl in the end, so that's one advantage for you. I've also seen Michael portray the role of Raoul. He is very good at it, but he makes a much better Phantom. The same with you, only you make a much better Raoul. It would also be nice for you to become really good friends with Michael after this whole movie is made, one way or another. That way I can adore you both at the same time, along with Andrew and Sarah! I'm sorry if I'm being too bossy or telling you how to live your life. But it would be absolutely wonderful for me to see you play Raoul in this musical. Please think about it, at least. Again, thank you for your time! |
| Name: Ana Sol Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Palm Springs Time: 1999-12-11 22:50:45 Comments: I continually read in the Phantom's guestbooks that the Phantom is an old, mature creature. The Erik I read is ageless. His maturity is not. The creature was compelled to mature to survive his environment. He did grow to be vindictive, but also fair. The book doesn't have the horrific ending that the movies had. Even if the Phantom were young, I do not believe that Antonio can satisfy the role because in every movie I have seen him in, he gives the impression of being a rash, but god's-gift to the world. If he demands more narrative and less lyrics; more special effects; etc. would he not demand to let a little more of his "guapa" shine through the mask? To paraphrase Bennet, I knew the Phantom (I saw him many years in the form of Michael Crawford), and you sir are no Phantom. You can't crack your voice as Michael can when he commiserates with himself, when he attempts to conjures Christine. Please DON'T DO phantom. |
| Name: Meghan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ohio Time: 1999-12-10 21:16:23 Comments: You are a fine actor, but if you go through with this it will ruin many peopls reputation AWL,WB,Really Useful Group,and you own for preforming a part that wasn't made for you. I know you have heard this thounds of times play Raul or one of the Mangers.They are very significant to the musical. You could preforem it beautifuly. With people saying your too young for the role of Phantom I have to agree. He's in his 50's to maybe early 60's. Raul on the other hand is in his early 20's to early 30's which is you age bracket. Please, try a role other than Phantom. Who knows you might do wonderfuly in it with something you couldn't accomplish with the role of Phantom. I'm truly sorry about the lenghth and any errors in spelling. |
| Name: Anastasia
Lynn Taylor-Kane I Website: Oosh -n- Alley Referred by: From a Friend From: Santa Clarita, California in the US of A Time: 1999-12-08 18:05:52 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I would like to open by saying that I truely enjoy your movies. Ever since you were in 'Interview with a Vampire' I've been in love with you. I believe your performance in Evita was superb. However, after seeing your performance with Sarah Brightman at Andrew Lloyd Webbers Birthday Celebration I do not believe the role of the phantom, Erik, is right for you. You're just NOT Michael Crawford! Please don't get offended. I hope you make many more movies (I'll be in the front row on openning to see them). But, If you're cast as Erik, I don't know if I'll be able to sit through my beloved musical. Please take this into consideration. Thank you. |
| Name: Reggie
Naus Website: Realm Of The Opera Ghost Referred by: From a Friend From: the Netherlands Time: 1999-12-03 13:16:52 Comments: No offence, you were a fine Che but the Phantom requires a completely different singing voice. Michael Crawford's voice. Besides, you look too young. The Phantom is an older man. |
| Name: Jeanne Cooper Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-11-29 23:00:23 Comments: There is only one PHANTOM, and that Mr. Banderas is Michael Crawford.And if you do not have him in the film, that will be a disaster. |
| Name: Kim Casella Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-11-29 23:06:59 Comments: There is only one PHANTOM, and that Mr. Banderas is Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Hayley Marie
Christine Witthans Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Minneapolis, Minnesota Time: 1999-11-28 18:06:51 Comments: Dear Antonio(Mr. Bandares), Allow me to introduce myself. I am a 13-year-old, female opera singer(not to mention one who can do twice as well as Charlotte Church), I am a piano player, I am a great fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber's and Sarah Brightman's, and I am in love with Michael Crawford and his singing. I also must say that you are a wonderful actor/singer. You were magnifique in "The Mask of Zorro" and you took away the show in Lloyd Webber's "Evita". But I have a best friend my age by the name of Danielle(who is a wonderful violinist) who loves Lloyd Webber's "Phantom of the Opera" as much as I do, and we both think the film role of the Phantom should go to Michael Crawford. So please, do continue on with your great career, but at least let Michael be the Phantom in this film. That way, his accomplishment as singing the music of the night will be recorded on videotape for all to cherish forever and ever. Thank you for your time! |
| Name: starr Website: Angel of Night Referred by: From a Friend From: Eastern States Time: 1999-11-26 21:35:41 Comments: Mr. Benderas, I would like to say, I think you were brilliant in "Interview with a Vampire" and that if you were to perform as the Phantom, I would not hold it against you. You'd be brilliant -- IF it were a DRAMATIC role and not a musical role. The role is just toooooooo much for Micheal Crawford to be given away to anyone else in the film. And I pray that ALW doesn't make a single change to it! Please, reconsider this role, and give it to MC. I'll always be your fan though, no matter what you chose. |
| Name: Jane
A. Whitmoyer Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-11-26 12:38:44 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I would like to say that you are a very fine actor, but I believe the role of the "Phantom of the Opera" should go to Mr. Michael Crawford. He is and always will be the "Phantom". He was a brilliant success on Broadway and Los Angeles, and nobody else in the world can do the role as he can. I wish you continued success in your fine acting career. |
| Name: Cathy
Conover Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Tampa, Florida Time: 1999-11-20 14:36:22 Comments: I agree that Antonio Banderas is wonderfully talented but much more suited to the role of Raoul. There is only one person that can do justice to the role of the Phantom and that is Michael Crawford. The movie would be incredible with the combination of these two talented actors. Mr. Banderas please reconsider.. Thanks. |
| Name: Jane Hoerman Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: Goddard, KS Time: 1999-11-16 00:19:20 Comments: Mr. Banderes, Please make everyone involved happy, accept the role of Raoul and leave the Phantom role for Michael Crawford. Fans want to SEE your handsome face AND want to HEAR the Angel of Music's voice. Don't you usually get the girl at the end of a movie? I see a can't go wrong situation if the movie were cast this way with the original songs and only minor script changes. Thank you, Jane Hoerman |
| Name: Mindy
Meissner Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: VA Time: 1999-11-15 22:19:40 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I would like to say that I thoroughly enjoyed both Mask of Zorro and Evita. However, I believe that the portrayal of the Phantom is beyond your current abilities. I have heard that some think you would better suit the part of Raoul and I have to agree. To me you seem more of the romantic lover that Raoul is than the estranged psychopath that is the phantom we all know and love. Will you not accede the role to Michael Crawford? The original and only Phantom? I'm sure your role in the film will be ever so more successful if you play the part that matches you and your personality. I understand that you might take the part because of the challenge it represents to your acting/singing talents but how exhilirating is a challenge when it is not beaten? Why put yourself in a position that would make people think less of your abilities when you have another major role that would suit you perfectly? My letter is written with all due respect, sir, but I do hope you will consider your decision carefully. Many thanks. |
| Name: Victor
Faughnan Website: Referred by: Viewing another Guestbook From: San Diego, California Time: 1999-11-07 17:09:27 Comments: Mr. Antonio Banderas: Sir, My name is Victor Faughnan, I reside in Santee, California... I would like to address your obvious desire to be cast in the role of The Phantom in the proposed Warner Bros./Andrew Lloyd Webber production of the film version "The Phantom of the Opera". You should stop and think what taking that part may ultimately mean to your very impressive career. Certainly you would be able to handle the acting segments of such a role but Antonio, admit to yourself your voice is simply not up to the challenges the role demands. If ever two roles in a movie were meant for two different actors The Phantom is that movie. A magnificent opportunity is at hand for you, make the right decision and your fantastic career will take a giant leap, make the wrong choice and your present box-office appeal will likely plumment. Sir, you should take a moment to reflect on the actions taken by to other reknowned actors that found themselves in a similar position as you are now in, namely, Cary Grant and James Cagney. Many years ago Warner Bros. was planning a film version of a Broadway Play much as they are doing now. The Play, was, "My Fair Lady" a smash hit on Broadway at the time. The Broadway star that made the Play the hit that it had become was Rex Harrison. Warner Bros., even then was ignoring the inevitable, they wanted to cast the role of "Higgins" with Cary Grant, who was the box-office name at the time, much as you are today. They also were giving some thought to James Cagney as well. Both these actors showed some outsatnding personal inner strength, outstanding integrity by declining to take the role. Cary Grant went so far as to inform the Warner Bros. Studio Executives in no uncertain terms "either you cast Rex Harrison as Higgin's or I will never make another film for your Studio". It is said, that James Cagney also expressed similar feelings. The Studio cast Rex Harrison, the rest is film history. You, Sir, have the samee opportunity now, to show the World, your fans, Michael Crawford's fans, Phantom fans everywhere that you, also, like, Cary Grant and James Cagney have integrity, decline the role of The Phantom and advise the Studio and Lord Lloyd Webber of that decision. Request they cast the only legitmate actor for the role and that they allow you, Sir, to be cast as "Raoul", a role you were born for as was Crawford born to do the Phantom on film. Do this Mr. Banderas and your career will leap-frog, ten-fold. This movie, with you two gentlemen cast in those two roles will be an instant box-office block-buster Warner Bros., Lord Lloyd Webber, yourself and Michael Crawford will put on celluloid a musical masterpiece that will be treasured by all for as long as movies and musicals exist. As Cary Grant and James Cagney are remeembered for their contribution to the successful production of "My Far Lady", you sir, will as well, be remembered along side those two Filmdom Giants for the personal stance you took to preserve a part of musical history for posterity. Mr. Antonio Banderas, after you take such a career move, let me, now, be the first to thank you and congratulate you for showing such outstanding professional integrity. See you at the movies. Thank you Sir, for listening to me, this certainly is not just me talking, it is the combined thoughts of the movie going public and an anxious world. Sincerely Yours, Victor Faughnan vicsantee@aol.com |
| Name: Cynthia Bleich Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Davenport, Ia. Time: 1999-11-05 13:50:33 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I am sure you know that there are many movie projects for which you are perfect, but this is not one of them. Why risk aleinating thousands of people, not just Michael Crawford's fans, but others who will find that you are horribly miscast in this particular movie? Put your incredible talents to work on projects that suit you and you will gain fans, some of them from the ranks of the Michael Crawford Fan Association. Trusting in your good common sense, Cynthia Bleich |
| Name: Sally Scheef Website: Referred by: AOL From: Aurora, Illinois Time: 1999-11-05 07:03:19 Comments: Antonio, You seem to be a very busy man. Picture follows picture, some successful, some not. Please find some other project to focus on. SHOW some respect to a great musical, its original star, and his fans rather than just TALKING about "respect." Make a million friends, not a million enemies. |
| Name: JOSEPHINE
MARSCH Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New Jersey Time: 1999-11-05 00:10:18 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: I loved you in Evita and Zorro, but I sincerely feel that Michael Crawford is the ONLY PHANTOM. Though I admire your work I really feel that Michael Crawford will make the movie more of a success. I sincerely hope you will reconsider this role and I am sure there are many more parts available that you are more suited for. Sincerely, |
| Name: Jessie Lewis Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Utah, United States of America Time: 1999-11-04 20:39:57 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I have been following your career and commend you for your successes. You have come a long way. As a concerned supporter of you, I highly recommend you turn down the part of the Phantom in the movie "The Phantom of the Opera" that is now being discussed. If you do it as is, your voice will not carry the show. If it is re-written for you so you can sing it, you will be compared very unfavorably with the man who is considered throughout the world to be THE PHANTOM - Michael Crawford. I hope you can see this would not be a good career move for you. Good luck in your other projects. |
| Name: Hal W. Glenn Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: San Diego, Ca Time: 1999-11-02 03:54:07 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I can only repeat what so many have said before me, the role DOES belong to Mr. Crawford! I saw him on Broadway in New York, and he WAS the show. A perfomance I will never forget. |
| Name: Arielle
Perez Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New York City, NY Time: 1999-11-01 23:40:08 Comments: Dear Mr.Banderas, I know you are really want to be the Phantom in the upcoming movie, but let's get back to reality; you can't do this! Not that I'm critisizing you or anything, but we all know that there is more to this part now then meets the eye. Everyone knows that 13th Warrior and Crazy in Alabama weren't the box office smashes that you hoped for. Now you have even more reasons to play the role. I mean, what better way to get back on top as a celeberty than playing the most famous and loved role in all of musical theater. Makes sense, right? WRONG! Yes, the role is a great one, but it's just out of your league. The musical range is beyond yours, which is why a lot of the music is being rewritten so you can sing them. This is just a kick in the head for all those people who love the musical in the first place, and a futher insult for people in the Michael Crawford Phantom Movie Campaign. Not only are they being denied the original Phantom and Cristine which they were PROMISED(I'm stressing this word for a reason), they are also being denied the inspirational music which drew them to the musical in the first place. So, not only are you provoking people who are angry about you being considered for the role instead of Michael Crawford, you are also pushing people who are not Crawford fans, but love Phantom and the music. This is just going to add to your list of failures on screen, and put you on VERY bad terms with the public, and you don't want that, do you? However, there is a way that you can can be in the movie and make all those people who are angered by this situation all happy. Why not play the role of Raoul? It would be perfect for you. He's young, hansome, and you won't get all those fans mad at you for making such a big mistake and ruining their favorite musical. Just think it over. Which would you rather want people to remember you as?; the man who ruined The Phantom of the Opera by trying to play a part that was beyond your range and which nobody wants you in, or as the man who triumphed with Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman in what could very well be the greatest triumph in all of musical and movie history! Please, we all know that you are a great guy at heart, and we don't want to see you or our favorite musical lose popularity for something like this. Please, make that decision that all of us want to hear. Not only will you save yourself a lot of embarresment and bad reviews, you;ll be making a LOT of people VERY happy. Thank-you for your time. Sincerely, Arielle Perez |
| Name: Doug
McCallum Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-11-01 11:33:08 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: As a historian of theatre and film, I am writing to protest the idea of your playing the title role in the film version of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 'The Phantom of the Opera.' This is a doubly unfortunate prospect—indeed a multiply unfortunate one—for it will have an adverse effect not only on you and Michael Crawford, but also on the composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber, on Warner Brothers, and on audiences everywhere, who will not be fobbed off with something second or third rate. Yet many of us are torn between our affection for two performance artists we admire. Like many others we will not accept anything substandard, but though we protest the project we do not write to criticize you or your talent, but only your artistic judgment in becoming involved in this controversy. I want to apologize for those intemperate souls who have written ad hominem letters. Please forgive them, for they know not what they do. They are carried away by their loyalty to Michael Crawford to the exclusion of other considerations. My wife and I, and I hope the majority of correspondents, are writing out of a concern for two artists we respect: you and Michael Crawford. We do not want to be placed in the unpleasant position of having to choose between you, nor can we understand why that should be necessary. We have have admired your acting ever since we saw some films you made in Spain before you fell into the clutches of the “Hollowood” movie industry, especially those of Warner Brothers, perpetrators of the cinematic travesty of 'My Fair Lady.' We also enjoyed your virtuosic performance in 'Desperado' and your fascinating study of a hired killer in 'Assassins' opposite Sylvester Stallone. Your performance in Evita was completely different from that of David Essex in the original production—all hot-blooded anger versus his cool Brechtian distanciation—but your distincitive interpretation worked just as well, and I agree with other commentators that you 'stole the show,' though you did so quite legitimately because of the superiority of your work. Recently your athletic Fairbanks-style performance in “The Mask of Zorro” showed yet another dimension of your acting ability. It pains us, therefore, to have to write to you regarding your intention to take the title role in the film version of 'The Phantom of the Opera' away from Michael Crawford, who set his indelible stamp on that role. We find ourselves torn between the two of you, for we are fans of both of you. However, in view of the intense international identification of the role with Mr. Crawford, we feel bound to tell you that you are about to participate in a grotesque act of injustice and a betrayal of your own integrity by allowing others to influence you to the extent of stealing a richly deserved opportunity for another great artist to preserve an interpretation that he created. Therefore, for your own sake as well as Michael Crawford’s we urge you not to take this assignment. It is not in your best interest. Is an actor of your caliber going to rely solely on cheap and obvious make-up effects to do what you are far too young to do? You’re about to make the biggest mistake of your young career. What will you do next? King Lear? Olivier, wisely, didn’t tackle that part until he was an old man himself. As a young man he restricted himself to relatively youthful roles. You should follow his example. This brings us to the crux of the matter. As a romantic star, why do you want to divert your energies and your future opportunities to character roles which you can play later in life and which are simply inappropriate and undesirable at this time? This decision makes no sense. It may very well jeopardize your present career because it will probably repel both your movie fans and the millions of people who have enjoyed “The Phantom” in its spell-binding theatrical productions. You may find yourself surrounded by invidious comparisons. We hope that your intentions are not motivated by egotism (and possibly by self- destructive impulses) as others have suggested, but rather by bad advice and the short-sighted machinations of Warner Brothers. We hope you will resist such influences. Though we feel compelled to join the growing protest movement against your proposed portrayal of the phantom, we also wish you well and wish to emphasize that we emphatically do not share the sentiments of some of the Crawford fans who have written what we consider to be unfair and inaccurate letters claiming that you do not have a good enough singing voice. We have had the pleasure of hearing you sing in “Evita” and in the recent concert honouring Andrew Lloyd Webber. As a longtime opera-lover who has heard enjoyed performances by many great singers from Dame Joan Sutherland and Lenontyne Price to Placido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti, I know that you have a good enough voice to sing the role. What you do not have is an old enough voice. Nor, to be honest, can you claim the vast experience Michael Crawford has in the performance of musical theatre. These latter qualities are more important than a singing voice in this role. The truth is, you are simply far too young for the role of this would-be father figure, and the handsome presence that made you a movie star counts against you even more: no one who has ever seen you is going to believe that you are deformed. As a result, you are simply going to look miscast and ridiculous. Don’t do it to yourself, especially when there is a simple solution that would please everyone. I am scarcely the first person to suggest it, but I still want to add my support for it because I believe like many others that it is the only solution to the controversy that will benefit everyone concerned. Moreover, it will do the right thing and result in a film that everyone involved with can be proud of. That solution is for Michael Crawford to play the role that was virtually written for his unique attributes and for you to play the character of Raoul, for which you are equally suited. Your singing at the Lloyd Webber Tribute convinced me that your warm, lyrical voice is perfect for what is after all the romantic lead. At this point in your career that is what you should be playing, the sort of role audiences will be expecting, and the one that will do your career the most good. Otherwise you risk a future in Grade B horror movies. As things stand you may be involved in a flop that could bury your promising career. Other correspondents have suggested this. One of them has appropriately referred to the movie version of 'Mame,' with the provision that instead of an older person trying to appear as a younger charachter, we now have the prospect of the opposite and equally ludicrous error. Don’t let Warner Brothers’ notorious short- sightedness make a fool out of you. Your previous magnificent interpretations of appropriate roles have shown that you are a brilliant actor. Take the role of Raoul, and your star will continue in the ascendant. You were born to play this role. Why take one that is patently uncongenial? When the Canadian touring production of “The Phantom” was due to open in Vancouver, a local newspaper printed an interview in which Harold Prince, who directed all the productions of this musical, admitted that every subsequent performer has had to imitate Michael Crawford: his vocal quality, inflections, gestures, walk, etc. That is how definitive Crawford’s approach has become in the public consciousness. Audiences simply will not accept anything other than the next best thing to Michael Crawford. Is that what you want to be: another Crawford clone? That would be a terrible waste of your talent. Take the role of Raoul instead: it is made for you, and you will be magificent in it. In support of my arguments, I quote an excerpt from “Talkin’ Broadway” by V. J. His internet address is as follows: http://www.talkinbroadway.com/rialto/past/1999/10_27_99.htm Among other things he says: "The other day I'm listening to the radio and I hear Michael Crawford singing 'The Music of the Night.' It was just shortly after I had read 2 articles about Antonio Banderas in major newspapers. I'm not in the Michael Crawford fanclub or involved with the infamous "Phantom Movie Campaign" or whatever they're called. Anyhow, listening to Crawford took me back to 1988 when Phantom was the hottest ticket in town. . . . Michael Crawford simply blew me away. I mean, he was the Phantom and his singing was, and still is, sensational. . . . Crawford was rewarded with a Tony Award the following June for his portrayal and it remains one of the landmark performances of all time. . . . "And now there is the ever constant and ever annoying film project. Warner Brothers makes no statements and Andrew Lloyd Webber says nothing. Yet, Antonio Banderas is quoted in newspapers as saying he has the role, has met up with Webber and Shakur Kapur, the director of the upcoming film version of the Broadway musical, and that he will be playing the Phantom despite the boos from the fans of Crawford whom he respects. On top of this, USA Today stated that there is nothing in writing to guarantee that he has the role. ". . . I like Antonio Banderas. I think he did a superb job in Zorro and in the not so mega-musical Evita. But, for him to allow himself, and I'm sure he's thought about this, to be cast as the Phantom rather than Raoul, is a major mistake. He'll go down in history just as Lucille Ball did with Mame. He's a perfect Raoul and I don't understand why he does not see this. And now, dear readers, I'll tell you why he should not play the Phantom. "First off, Antonio is in a 'no win' situation. Comparisons will be made to Michael Crawford and most people have the perception that Michael is the Phantom. Even if he does an exceptional job he'll be criticized. On top of that if the film is not an artistic or box office success he'll be blamed for that as well. His age is another problem; the good-looking Banderas is too young for the role. The Phantom should be played by a more mature man (Crawford?). His youthful appearance makes him perfect casting for Raoul. No question. He's a movie star and will put butts in the seats, just as will Crawford. Now, you may question Crawford's ability to sell tickets. Well, he's been doing exactly that throughout the world with his concerts for the last year. . . . "What would be satisfying to us theater-fans would be if RUG and Webber videotaped Phantom with Crawford in the stage role he created. They did this with Cats with great success; then we wouldn't care how they cast the Hollywood film. Many say the movie musical is dead, and perhaps it is. With Crawford as the Phantom and Banderas as Raoul, at least they'd have a shot of bringing back life to this artform. Otherwise, it looks D.O.A. to me." We hope you will listen to reason. You have nothing to gain and everything to lose by taking the role of the phantom away from the man who created it and whom you cannot hope to surpass at your age. But you have everything to gain and nothing to lose in taking on the role of Raoul. This could provide for a film in which the most pragmatic becomes the most ideal. Think before you act. It is true that if you persist in efforts to play the role of Erik, the phantom, all members of the Michael Crawford campaign will boycott the film. This may not seem significant to you. But consider this: we are merely the tip of the iceberg toward which you are heading. We will also bring every influence to bear on friends and relatives to do likewise. Moreover, we are only the most active Crawford fans who are repelled by the mere prospect. Many more, inactive people will be equally repelled by the result and will communicate their feelings to still more people. In short there will be a snowball effect that will greatly reduce potential audiences, and revenues, for what will undoubtedly be a very expensive film. None of this will do you or Warner Brothers any good. You have the good will of film audiences now. Why risk it for something that will not enhance your stature but can only degrade it? Sincerely, Doug McCallum, Ph.D. |
| Name: Steven
Hurley Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Baltimore, MD Time: 1999-10-29 21:40:53 Comments: Take the part of Raul, and leave the Phantom to the man who perfected the role, Michael Crowford. |
| Name: Debra
Baird Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: California Time: 1999-10-25 05:26:49 Comments: Mr. Banderas, The recent remark in your last interview shows your lack of appreciation for your audience. As I recall Evita did very poorly at the box office. What makes you think this will be any different? Let me enlighten you and maybe make some of that cocky attitude disapear. Phantom Of The Opera was seen by people on both coasts. People travelled just to see the musical. People that love the theater and have seem most of the musicals around for many years, came for many reasons. One was a wonderful storyline. Another reason was a beautiful performance. The two combined made the show a classic in theater. The audience you spite knows great theater. They are the same people who saw Evita on stage. You notice they didn't like the movie. There was a reason. We are not fooled by a pretty face. You are an adequate actor. You are not a singer. We also appreciate an original piece's quality, not a "Hollywood" rendition. You can't fool us and neither can Andrew. Your "pretty" face will not be a factor. It will have a mask over it. All that will be left is your acting and singing. With talk of re-writing the story and the music to accomodate your voice, I don't think you have a prayer. I heard you sing at Andrew's Birthday Celebration. I don't want to be rude, but it isn't close to what it should be. It is an opera! The character Erik is supposed to be a musical genius. Do you really think he would sing "inadequately". All the hype in the world isn't going to help you when you open your mouth. Michael Crawford conceived the character and has a beautiful voice. He has been touring the country. We have all heard him sing the songs. We will know the difference. By the way, it is ...The Phantom Of The Opera not The Phantom Of "De" Opera. Erik is Parisian. You either need to have a Parisian accent or none at all. I am an intelligent woman.I am not fooled by hype. Just remember that all the cocky bragging will catch up with you. We can use word of mouth too. If Michael made the movie I would see it again and again. I know a lady who went to see him 30 times. Theater tickets are expensive, but she felt it was worth it. I won't be seeing the movie even once. I bet she won't either. I suggest you not put your foot in your mouth any more. We will have the last laugh and it will echo through every theater. Sincerely, Debra Baird |
| Name: Madelyn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-10-23 02:11:35 Comments: Antonio, NO, NO, NO. This role belongs to Michael Crawford. You are just the seemingly more commercial choice to try to entice the younger set to the film. Respect art, be a true gentleman, and gracefully bow out. Don't be remembered as a Crawford wannabe. |
| Name: Jana Lynn Ploss Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-10-21 22:48:58 Comments: I know it is quite soon to be writing again. I cannot help it! After I learnt of Antonio Bandit's audacious interview with Miami Herald, I felt compelled to relate to my friends that his insensitivity in an interview regarding Michael Crawford fans only reflects his incapabilities to perform Erik with sensitivity. We summarised the reason why Mr Crawford has not come forth as did Patti Lupone did in Sunset Boulevard. All Mr Crawford has spoken regarding POTO is the fact that he would like to re-re-create the role. He is too much of a gentleman to step on toes, and by the fans' responses, it looks like he does not need to do so. His fans speak for him. We will step on toes! Mr Bandit, you make a foxy bandit-gentleman in black cape and mask, but leave the white mask to a professional gentleman's gentleman. You will ruin the film if you have Lord Lloyd Webber downgrade the music for your range and allow your zest for needless action stunts. Can you not stick with Crazy in Alabama schtick? My friends were in total agreement that all you will accomplish if you proceed is to alienate Lord Lloyd Webber's phans and create a horde of boycotters. It seems Lord Lloyd Webber needs our help as he is suffering from temporary loss of sanity. He is reneging all his earliest statutes on professionalism. You and phantom phans must help him recover them and do the right thing. PLEASE MR BANDIT--DO NOT KILL ERIK! |
| Name: fluttrby Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ohio Time: 1999-10-21 00:54:14 Comments: Antonio, you are a very fine actor and singer. In Evita, I think you stole the entire movie from Madonna. But, I beg you, please leave the role of Phantom to Michael Crawford. I hate to say it Antonio, but he has a much better voice. And this role needs someone with a wide voice range. Plus, let's face it, Michael is Phantom. It it his role now. So, let him play him one last time. Let it be recorded forever on film for all to see. As for you, I have one last, small, suggestion. Another very fine role in Phantom of the Opera. Raoul. Now, it is not the title role. But, it is still a major role in the play. And, I personally think you could do wonders with it. Think Che in Evita. And, this way, you'll still be in the movie. You're wonderful talent will still be used. Michael, will get to play Phantom (a role he was born to play, like you with the Mask of Zorro), and believe me. Everyone will be all the much more happier, in the end, with this arrangement. |
| Name: Jana Lynn Ploss Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Lompoc, CA Time: 1999-10-21 00:30:58 Comments: Mr Banderas, you ought to have shame! How dare you tell the Miami Herald so arrogantly that you will be the phantom and then disrespect the Phantom fans in the same breath. My disrespect is such that I shall remove my nose to spite my face (and become the phantomess?). I enjoyed Zorro and to an extent Evita. Now, if your name appears in any film, I will not view it or discuss (disgust?) it. Who's Fonda Jane was quite an actress. I did the same to her that I will do to you. I have yet forgiven that woman for Vietnam and the cause of a particular POW. You sir (and I am not sure I meant that) are an ego waiting to be deflated. You will not bring action-pack hordes to Phantom anymore than you did to Evita. Michael Crawford, a true gentleman, will bring in the crowds better than you because he has enchanted people worldwide in the theatre, television, yes--movies, and the record industries. People want the Michael Jordon of Theatre-- Michael Crawford. I humbly plead with you to listen. Direct it if you must, but do not destroy the one musical that can truly succeed since the MGM's musicals of the fifties. Beauty and the Beast stories (Christine and Erik) will succeed when properly performed. |
| Name: Dori Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: So. CA Time: 1999-10-20 03:29:44 Comments: Like so many other fans of the musical "Phantom of the Opera", I had expected that when the film was made it would be with Michael Crawford in his original role. I also had expected that the film would follow closely the stage version that has been one of the most successful in theatrical history. But now we hear you, Mr. Banderas, say that you are going to play the Phantom. And because of your limited singing ability, Andrew Lloyd Webber is going to change the music and the libretto to suit you. Everyone who has heard your name mentioned in connection with this film has wondered how you were going to be able to sing "The Music of the Night" and now it appears that you won't have to. Lloyd Webber is going to replace his beautiful music with tunes that you can warble. What a travesty!! What a terrible crime to a much-loved play. It makes me sick. |
| Name: Michelle
Osborne Website: Crysania's Worlds Referred by: From a Friend From: Syracuse, NY Time: 1999-10-18 07:31:31 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas...You said in a recent interview that you do not want to disappoint Michael Crawford's fans with your portayal of the Phantom in the upcoming movie of the musical. Do you not understand that just by taking the role away from him, you are disappointing us? Truly, have you ever had the chance to see him perform? Have you ever listened to what you will be compared to? If you are still contemplating this role, then I highly doubt it. You are a fine actor, and I have enjoyed the movies I have seen you in...This is not the issue, however. The issue here is two-fold...Firstly, it is an issue of fairness, of what is the right thing to do. Michael Crawford was hand-picked for the role of the Phantom by the composer. He helped shape the role, helped define who the Phantom is. He *made* that role...without his influence, Phantom may never have been what it is to-day. He was also given the role in 1990 for the movie when it was first supposed to be filmed. It is only *fair* that he get to bring his creation, *his* Phantom, to the screen for the generations to come to enjoy it, and for those that had the pleasure of seeing him on stage in the role, to relive their memories. Secondly, this is an issue of artistic integrity. Pardon me if I may say this, but Phantom is perfect the way it was first written. To even contemplate taking parts out, and adding in speech in their place, is ludicrous. Also, please remember that Erik (the Phantom) had the voice of an angel. This means his singing has to be perfect, ethereal...it has to send shivers up your spine and make you want to listen to it forever. Michael Crawford fits this description. You, however well you may think you sing, do not. Pardon me for being blunt, but you sir are *no* Angel of Music. I am not saying you do not sing well, for there are many singers out there who I would enjoy in another role, but would never want to hear as the Phantom. Please, Mr. Banderas, turn down this role! It certainly won't harm your career. You wouldn't be the first famous actor to do such a thing. Both Cary Grant and James Cagney turned down roles in the motion picture of "My Fair Lady"...Why? Because they respected the musical and those actors who had originally brought it to life enough to refuse to be in it. Cary Grant even refused to do another picture for Warner Brothers if they didn't cast the originals in the roles. Please, sir, I beg you...Do what is right and refuse to be a part of what is sure to be a travesty without Michael Crawford! |
| Name: Sarah
Prigmore Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Isle of Wight, UK Time: 1999-10-17 16:39:48 Comments: Dear Mr Banderas, I used to be a fan of yours but now I no longer watch your films as they bring me no enjoyment, only remind me of my disappointment. Disappointment brought about by your assertion that you are a better candidate than Michael Crawford to play the Phantom in the film version of the musical. Have you ever read the reviews, or seen the list of awards Michael received for playing the Phantom? Do you really believe you can match his performance? I saw you perform for Andrew Lloyd Webber's 50th birthday celebration, and while I think you're a fine actor, you are no singer - certainly not of Michael's calibre. Michael Crawford's performance was an important one that will be talked about for many, many years to come. It SHOULD be preserved on film for future generations to enjoy. Please do not rob them - or us, the Michael Crawford/Phantom of the Opera fans - of that performance. |
| Name: Sheri Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Chicago Time: 1999-10-16 05:27:25 Comments: Mr. Banderas - I enjoy your work very much. You are a talented actor. However, the role of the Phantom must go to Michael Crawford. His passion, talent, and amazing voice have been critical and indispensible parts of the success of the Phantom of the Opera for more than a decade. I saw you perform with Sarah Brightman at Andrew Lloyd Weber's birthday and, while you can sing, it is not the Phantom's voice!!! I can understand your desire to play the Phantom...what actor wouldn't want this amazing role?! But, if you could stop for a moment and think about Michael's fans and what it would mean to us to see him do this role just one more time -- for future generations to enjoy -- then you would begin to understand our passion for him and this body of work. Please, Mr. Banderas, step down from the role...I guarantee that you will win over many more fans if you do! People who will go and see your other films. The Phantom film will fail if Michael is not in the lead role. The Phantom fans will see to it. |
| Name: Stef Website: Stef's Musicals Page Referred by: From a Friend From: PA-Penn State University Time: 1999-10-14 17:38:25 Comments: Antonio, why are you keeping a tenacious grip on this role? The movie doesn't even have a script yet but even then, there is NO WAY you can be the Phantom in this film and not disappoint Michael Crawford fans as well as millions of other Phantom fans. This Web site is living proof, and you're probably well aware of it and our opposition, yet you continue to ignore us. If you do not wish to "disappoint" us then why are you turning a deaf ear to our pleas? Why are you expressing concern for us in the papers when apparently you don't? You're not the only one expressing your opinions to the media. Haven't you seen the Variety ads, newspaper articles, etc.? The stakes are high...Do you REALLY think you can pull this off and NOT disappoint us? If so...I'm sorry but you're sorely mistaken. You're offending us now with your audacious claims to the role and will do more than "disappoint" us in the future if you continue in this vein and be the title role in this movie. So...I'll make my plea again in hopes that you will finally consider your options and rethink your decision...You do not have the vocal qualifications for the role and your lack of experience with it shows with the performance in the Andrew Lloyd Webber 50th birthday celebration. As far as I can tell, you can not pull off an adequate portrayal of the Phantom, nonetheless one of Michael Crawford's caliber. Please, Antonio, go down in history as having some class, modesty and artistic integrity and give the role to Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Maggie Birge Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY Time: 1999-10-14 07:37:15 Comments: Antonio: You're doing it again! You and you alone are trying to spread the rumor that you are going to star in the movie version of The Phantom of the Opera. I don't hear any confirmation coming from either Andrew Lloyd Webber or Warner Bros. that this is a fact. Why don't you concentrate on drumming up interest for Crazy in Alabama and leave Phantom alone? You will not play the lead in that film if there is anything I or other members of The Michael Crawford Phantom Movie Campaign can do about it. Your statement that you don't want to offend Michael Crawford's fans was ridiculous. We are already offended that you don't have the class to realize your limitations and step aside so that the legitimate Phantom can recreate the performance millions of fans want to see. We are giving you a great gift, Antonio. We are providing you our reaction to your interpretation of the Phantom before you ever make the film. That reaction is totally negative. Whatever you think your musical abilities are, I assure you they are miniscule and inconsequential next to Michael Crawford's qualifications. How much voice training have you had? How many stage or movie musicals have you done? How much experience have you had with this character and this show? Except for your appearance in Evita, the answers to all the above questions is "none." Please do not confuse your pitiful performance on Lloyd Webber's birthday show with real musical experience. This was supposedly your first time to sing live before an audience, and it showed! You had absolutely no idea what you were doing. There was no understanding of the character, no passion, and not a hint of seduction. You revealed to the world what you really are...a complete musical amateur grasping for something you can never achieve. If your ego has convinced you that you really have what it takes to play this part, then why didn't you face the real challenge of the role and sing "Music of the Night?" Or where you afraid of humiliating yourself completely? You didn't have to worry. You couldn't have made yourself look any worse than what you did. What you can't seem to understand is that the essence of the Phantom is music. It is practically the only way he can communicate. He uses his voice to frighten his enemies and to control and seduce the woman he desires. The Phantom is supposed to be an "angel of music" and the actor playing him must have a remarkable voice, highly trained and versatile enough to range from falsetto to baritone. It's ALL in the voice, Antonio. You don't have it and you never will. Not all actors can play all roles. This is one you must not attempt. Take warning...if you actually do get this role, remember that everything you do will be measured against the impossibly high standard of Michael Crawford's performance. Surely even you cannot believe that you will attain those heights. You are risking public ridicule beyond anything you can imagine if you persist in this. As this campaign and the publicity it has generated prove, the world has already begun to judge you. You are already being compared to Michael Crawford and you are being found completely inadequate to be his successor. It will only get worse for you as time goes on. You say you don't want to offend or disappoint Michael Crawford's fans? How can you do anything but that unless you step aside, give up this insanity, and let Michael Crawford bring the Phantom to the movie screen as he has every legitimate right to do. Millions and millions of Phantom fans want him, and almost none of them want you. Those are the facts. You can't ignore them, so consider them carefully. Your professional reputation is at stake here. The movie business doesn't tolerate failure for very long. Hollywood is a slippery slope and careers can quickly disappear into oblivion. Beware! |
| Name: Linda Frey Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Apollo, PA Time: 1999-10-14 02:23:55 Comments: Mr. Banderas: You are not only "disappointing" the Michael Crawford fans but the millions of Phantom of the Opera fans and any person who is seriously interested in the theater-- the very people who will support a musical. Michael Crawford does not just "sing" songs, he becomes a part of every song and takes his audience with him. This is a special gift and one that sets him apart from the average singer. This will not be an easy role. I just don't think you have the voice for it. You are in great demand, why would you want to do a movie when the target audience is already telling you they won't support it? If you think we are vocal now, make this movie and see how vocal we can be! We will write to every newspaper, magazine and anyone else will listen to us. I have no intention of giving up on this movie. |
| Name: Diane
Flogerzi Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: California Time: 1999-10-13 19:00:35 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Let's review just what your future in this film may be. The recent rumors that are once again coming only from you and your aggressive PR machine are saying that Kapur is working on the script and that much of the music has been deleted and new music added. Okay, other than I believe this is TOTALLY NUTS, after all, why are you guys supposedly planning on tampering with one of the most dearly loved and successful musical scores of this century? (But who am I to judge, right?) This is going to upset the millions of Phantom of the Opera fans who love the play just as it is and who expect this movie to be produced with integrity towards the original. You sir are personally in a no win position. If "Music of the Night" is cut due to your inability to sing it, you are going to be a laughingstock to every lover of the play. If you actually sing it, you are going to be compared to the voice of Michael Crawford and I don't care how much you prepare you are going to be found lacking. That is a fact and no amount of ego is going to change it, try it and see if I am not right. If they dub you, you are in big trouble once again. You have stated that you do not want to disappoint the people who saw Michael Crawford in the play. What about the people who didn't get the chance to see him, do you have any care or concern for them? Do you actually believe you can pull this off? I have news for you, the media will be back to this web site for quotes and opinions if this film is made with you in the role of the Phantom; without a doubt you will be in for criticism never experienced before in your career. There are going to be a lot of angry people out there and I am afraid a large portion of the anger will be directed at you. This will not bring me any personal satisfaction because it will then be too late for Michael Crawford's legendary performance to be captured and seen by all. This web site will be here and the history of this campaign will be available for all to see. The story will be told of who the fans wanted to star in this movie and the lengths that were taken to convince Hollywood and Andrew Lloyd Webber to go back to their original vision and their promise to use the man who created and breathed life into this role. HE is the one who made it famous. His name is MICHAEL CRAWFORD. Reports state that you have said that this role has been your dream ever since "Evita." What about Michael Crawford's dreams, and more importantly....the dreams of the thousands of fans who have waited for almost a decade? Do you really feel your "dream" takes precedence over ours? What accomplishments in your life make you a better candidate than Michael Crawford? Your looks? Your "box office" appeal at the present? How familiar are you with this role? Michael Crawford performed it over 1300 times, his voice is known by MILLIONS as the Phantom, the original cast recording has now sold over 14 million copies. He won an OLIVIER AND A TONY for THIS ROLE. He also won an OLIVIER for "Barnum," the play he starred in just prior to "The Phantom of the Opera." Where are your accolades from your peers? You have campaigned for this part since 1996 and it is difficult to forgive your publicity tactics in trying to convince the public that you are the man who should immortalize this role on screen. I used to be a fan of yours Mr. Banderas, but after the past year's events I do not feel I can enjoy you as an actor again, I am certainly no longer an admirer. We have stayed very polite when it comes to you throughout the course of this campaign....until now. The gloves are coming off, and this web site is going to remain. People do have a voice, there is freedom of speech in this country and we are going to continue to utilize all avenues available. Attached to the start page of this open letter is a real player video that was a polite hint to you to have the same class shown by Cary Grant and James Cagney who turned down roles in "My Fair Lady" in favor of the actors who are now immortalized in that motion picture. Step down and allow the person who will ALWAYS be the Phantom to record his creation. You will be a hero to thousands if you do. Sincerely, Diane Flogerzi |
| Name: Jessie Lewis Website: Referred by: Clicked on a 'Guestbooks by GuestWorld' Button From: USA, Utah Time: 1999-09-15 22:42:45 Comments: Hi Antonio, I'm sure by now you are aware that there is a huge ground swell of people who want Michael Crawford to star in The Phantom of the Opera if, and when, it is made into a movie. I understand your career is really blooming right now - I'm very happy for that. I thought you were kind of neat as Che in Evita. On ALW's Birthday Party you sang quite well, and I enjoyed it. But some roles just 'belong' to some people. The Phantom is Michael Crawford's role of a lifetime, and I hope you understand that. It would be very, very nice of you to decline this role in his favor. It certainly will not hurt your growing career. Please think about it. |
| Name: Carol A. Website: no Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Massachusettes Time: 1999-09-12 18:41:55 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I know the role of the Phantom of the Opera is a great opportunity for you to play, but, please re-consider. The ONLY person who can do that role justice is Michael Crawford!! You have the FACE that I would rather see uncovered. Why not play Raoul?? I have never seem Mr. Crawford do the role in person...only clips & the CD that I fell in love with. Since he left the role in LA, hoping to do the movie, I, & others, have been waiting with 'baited breath' to see him do it on film. Now, however, the Powers that be has pulled the rug out from under him...us!!!! If Mr. Crawford doesn't do the role, I'm afraid millions of people, myself included, will boycott the film!! Don't get me wrong, Mr. Banderas, please. I am also a big fan of yours, but NOT IN THIS PARTICULAR FILM!!! Iloved you in Evita...you were GREAT!! ALAS, the role of the PHANTOM belongs to Michael Crawford. He originated it, brought him (Erik) to life, & gave the man a soul as NOBODY else can do. Please Please reconsider & don't disappoint me & many, many other fans. Thank you, Respectfully, Mrs. Carol Atkins Massachusetts |
| Name: Blake Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ohio Time: 1999-09-10 22:20:04 Comments: Dear Mr. Antonio Bandaras- YOU are a wounderful actor and singer for these OTHER parts you have been in. But PLEASE, do not do Phantom. Soem reasons are 1. You are about a BA-Zillion-are :) and are known around the world as ZORRO and CHE in EVITA... Yes, I know you sang at Lord Llyod Webber's Birhtday Celebration and did a WONDERFUL job. But, however, Mr. Crawford is the one TRUE Phantom! He makes the Phantom LIVE through his voice. Also, Lord Llyod Webber made GRIZZABELLA live through Elaine Paige (an origional as i might add) in CATS, Ken Page (also a Origional) as Old Deutoronomy also in CATS, and JOSEPH is re-cloaked with Donny Osmond (Canadian ORIGIONAL) so, why not ADD to this streak and give the role to Mr. Crawford. Thank you and may you make MANY more movies. ~Blake "In sleep he sang to me...." which Mr. Crawford did and still does. |
| Name: Paula
Blake Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Sussex, England Time: 1999-09-09 01:18:19 Comments: To Antonio Banderas - There have already been several film versions of Gaston Leroux's book The Phantom Of The Opera. I firmly believe that if either you, or any other actor plays the film role, that the resulting movie will be regarded by the majority, as just another Phantom movie and that they will not truly connect that movie with the fantastically successful stage show, which originally starred Michael Crawford. In addition, the role calls for a more mature man than yourself. The Phantom is a man who has spent his entire life hiding himself away. He has known nothing but loneliness and the pain of not being loved, or even accepted by people. Michael Crawford has had a number of painful experiences in the course of his own life and his charitable work has brought him into contact, over many years, with numerous people who sadly know, only too well, what it is like to suffer. Consequently, Michael Crawford had no difficulty in finding the Phantom in himself. No one, but no one, can ever replicate that achievement and no one should try. Furthermore, Michael Crawford has a fan following that few actors could equal. Most of them are not infatuated youngsters, but mature, intelligent people who greatly appreciate quality. What is more, Mr Crawford is not just admired by millions around the world for being one of the most all-round talented entertainers there is, he is also greatly admired for himself. The man has a kindness and caring toward people and a dedication to his work that makes him exceptional. I think if you had any idea of how much he is loved and respected, you would want to distance yourself from this role. |
| Name: E. Hanna Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-08-19 01:18:25 Comments: To Antonio Banderas- The Phantom of the Opera is my favorite musical. I never saw Michael Crawford perform it live, but I have the Original recording. I've listened to 5 different phantoms, including you, and none were bad. But Michael Crawford is the original, and his unique interpretation should be captured on video. Even more so because he was offered the role first, and still would love to play it, after 9 years! Anyone who writes on this page that you are a bad actor is wrong, and does not have their heart in the right place. But I, and thousands of other fans, would love to see Crawford's performance onscreen, since we could not see it live. |
| Name: Cynthia Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Los Angeles Time: 1999-08-18 05:46:55 Comments: Antonio please, don't even presume...... The world knows one man who created the phantom and he is the one we would like and have waited to see perform the role in a feature film.. If you have seen him perform the role I am sure you agree with all of us! |
| Name: Elise
Lubell Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: florida Time: 1999-08-15 02:58:05 Comments: As Zorro you where great. But I don't think you have the voice and the moves to seduce a audience like Micheal Crawford can. I saw him twice as the Phantom, and you are not. People love you, but Micheal is the true Phantom |
| Name: Anne
Croteau Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Canada Time: 1999-07-23 17:31:26 Comments: Dear mr. Banderas, I would like to tell you my feelings about your casting in the phantom movie. I think your voice would not make justice to this part. You made a wonderful Che in Evita and loved you in it. But please, let Michael Crawford have the part. You are a very talented actor, and I hope you will make many other movies, but not the phantom of the opera. It would be an unbearable disapointment to a lot of people if mr. Crawford doesn't play the phantom. I hope you won't resent this, I would have said the same to any other who could have been offered this part. Please reconsider. Thank you for reading me. |
| Name: Lauren Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New Jersey, USA Time: 1999-07-18 19:30:51 Comments: Mr. Banderas: I am fourteen. I have never actually seen Michael Crawford in action. But just having the CD of him singing with all his heart and soul brings tears to my eyes. You are a wonderful actor. You were very good in Evita, and you are handsome, and I am sure you would try very hard to be a good Phantom. But I'm sorry, you just wouldn't be able to pull it off. Even if, as some of the people said, you were to take singing lessons for years, you couldn't have the same quality as Michael Crawford. He loved being Phantom. Hearing him pour his heart into his role is something you just don't get much anymore. And though many people I'm sure would be able to handle having you on screen, I am sorry. I just can't live with that. You may be first choice to Andrew Lloyd Webber, but you are far below second choice to me, and to all the campaigners. Think before you take away the role of a legend. Think, before the movie you may be starring in falls apart at the seams. Thank you for listening, and for your support, Lauren "Once again she returns. . . to the arms of her angel. . ." May that angel be Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Elizabeth Website: Teacher Toy Box Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: St. Louis, MO Time: 1999-07-14 18:35:45 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I have enjoyed seeing your talents in many action films--especially Mask of Zorro. I even think you added something to Evita. But I ask you to give careful consideration to the Phantom movie. I think the role requires a true singer--one who's dedicated his life to studying singing and musical theatre. That is not you. You are an actor. Please don't make a decision to be a part of a musical that flops and disappoints a lot of people. There are so many other movies out there more suited to your talents. Please be wise and continue doing what you do best and let someone else play the role of the Phantom. |
| Name: Ivette
Cecilia Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-07-12 20:10:21 Comments: Querido Senor Banderas; Quisiera decirle que su dedicacion al mundo del cine es incomparable y que el ejemplo que da usted de hombre latino es expectacular. Y directo al punto sin tomarle mas de su tiempo importante. El personaje del fantasma de la opera es un personaje que todos hemos llegado a amar por la interpretacion del Senor Michael Crawford. Este personaje el ha llegado a desarollarlo de este calibre por los anos que ha llevado interpretando el fantasma. Fuera buena idea de verlo ha usted en Broadway como el fantasma primero de esta manera pudieramos apreciarlos a los dos uno en Vivo y el otro en los cines. Gracias por su tiempo y atencion a nuestras suplicas Sinceramente Ivette Cecilia, Miami |
| Name: Marie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Cal Time: 1999-07-12 05:50:07 Comments: Antonio, Antonio...you cannot do this. I don't care if you lock yourself up in a monastary for 10 years and gave up smoking yesterday...your voice is not stong, or colorful or classical enough to play the Phantom. It would take you another 30 years of singing experience before your voice is anywhere near ready enough to do the role...be a "caballero"...and relinquish the role to it's rightful actor...Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Isis Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: utah Time: 1999-07-11 03:03:28 Comments: I this Michael Crawford would be GREAT for the part of the Phantom. I felt you did okay in "The Mask of Zorro", but I sorry, Crawford is still my fav. I can understand you wanting to play the part in the movie because you have a singing voice and I rarely hear of a movie star turn down an offer to do a movie. But for once, I'm begging you, let someone else do it. Your name is already all over the US, why not give Crawford the chance. This is basically the only movie that he might get a chance to do, besides of "Hello Dolly". I'm sure you have millions of dollars already. Why not take some expensive vacation and give Crawford a chance. Isis |
| Name: SummrNites Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: east coast Time: 1999-07-06 21:00:33 Comments: Mr. Banderas: I'm a big of yours. I don't think I have ever missed a movie by you in my life! You are amazingly talented and I love youe work, but I must ask you to consider something: The role of The Phantom in the Phantom of the Opera movie. I have all faith in you that you would do an excellent job, but it wouldn't be right. Micheal Crawford is THE Phantom and a Phantom of the Opera movie would not be a Phantom of the Opera movie without Mr. Crawford as his original, distinquishing, and extraordinary talent filling His character once again, except this time instead of a dressed stage, the Silver Screen! Please reconsider accepting this role...it would mean so much to many fans |
| Name: Jill Ayers Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Townville, SC Time: 1999-07-05 17:14:25 Comments: Dear Mr. Bandares, Please pull out of the Phantom movie! Don't misunderstand me; I loved you in Mask of Zorro. However, please take a role more suited to your wonderful talents. Let Micheal Crawford seduce the audience once again! Sincerely, Jill Ayers |
| Name: Anita
Lail Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Valdese, NC Time: 1999-06-28 05:33:49 Comments: Dear Mr. Bandaras, I love your movies, and you were wonderful in Evita. You were perfect for the part. No one has done the part of Chi like you. But, please, only Michael Crawford is the Phantom. I have you on tape singing the part in Celebration. You did an exceptional job, but only Micahel is the one for this part. He is and always will be the phantom. I have seen the play twice, and neither was with Michael. I have his music, and no one comes close to singing this part like him. Thank you |
| Name: Barbara Jauregui Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Luis Obispo Time: 1999-06-27 18:41:39 Comments: Mr. Banderas please make lots of movies, but NOT Phantom. Only Michail Crawford is the Phantom. I have visited Spain - Your countrymen are the most beautiful people in Europe - you are an example of that. I am mostly German, English, and Danish, but one of my great-great-great ancestors came from Vejar. My grandmother's maiden name was Bejarano. All that considered, with due respect to your not unconsiderable talent, you are not the Phantom. |
| Name: Jessie Lewis Website: Referred by: Clicked on a 'Guestbooks by GuestWorld' Button From: Utah,USA Time: 1999-06-20 15:37:16 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I am happy to see your career in the USA taking off so well, and I wish you the best. There is one matter I believe you should think about very seriously, and that is NOT accepting any offer - if one is extended - to play the Phantom in "The Phantom of the Opera." Mr. Michael Crawford is known all over the world as the voice of the Phantom. His voice is the one always used to advertise productions of Phantom, whoever is in them. I am fearful that if you play the Phantom it would be a very unwise career choice for you - for who needs a movie that flops. Please stay away from it, and let your fans see you in big successes. Best of luck in whatever ELSE you do!! |
| Name: Dori Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego Co, CA Time: 1999-06-15 00:47:54 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I have written to you many times and will continue to do so until I hear that you have given up the idea of playing the title role in the film version of "The Phantom of the Opera". There is no way that you could do justice to the part, as it is now written, given your limited vocal ability. The music would have to be re-written entirely for you to play the part. I can't even imagine your attempting to sing "The Music of the Night". It would be painfully embarrassing to everyone who heard you. In addition, the character of Erik would have to be modified as he is described as an "older man". Most would say that "older" means someone in their late 40s to early 60s. Claude Rains was never considered too old for the earlier film version and Michael Crawford is the perfect age for it right now. He created and perfected the role and everyone who has played it since he left the show has been unfavorably compared to him. And those were professional singers who followed him. How can you possibly think that you will measure up to the standard he set. Unless Lloyd Webber re-writes the film role entirely to suit your limited vocal talent, you would be miscast. And that is what I'm afraid will happen. It is "The Phantom of the Opera" that has been seen by audiences all over the world that we want to see on film. And it is Michael Crawford that the fans of the musical want to see. No one else will do. To us, he is The Phantom. |
| Name: Nicholas
Blake Website: Regent Villa Referred by: Lycos From: Nottingham, England Time: 1999-06-13 22:32:39 Comments: Dear Mr Banderas, You have really made your name famous by performing such brilliant roles in "Zorro" and the such like, so PLEASE do not let yourself down by taking on the role of the Phantom in the proposed movie. Many phans would love to see Crawford in the role, and really the production would be a big flop if he isn't seen. This is nothing to do with your acting capabilities, but many people wish to see the original in the role. If the movie is a disaster then it will really spoil your oh so good record of films so far. If you understand what is happening here really and truely then you will decline the role and allow Phantom phans to have the actor which THEY desire - and, of course, movies are about entertainment and making people happy and should not be thought about as just another way of making more money - for a lousy movie. Yours sincerely, Nicholas Blake. |
| Name: Miguel
Ângelo Pricinote Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Goiânia,Brazil Time: 1999-06-11 19:26:01 Comments: Quem é na verdade o verdadeiro fantasma da opera é o Michael Crawford.E se não for ele que seja o Bart Simpson |
| Name: Susie
Carter Website: http://www.mindspring.com/~susiecar/swiftwater.htm Referred by: Clicked on a 'Guestbooks by GuestWorld' Button From: Wake Forest, NC USA Time: 1999-06-05 18:06:00 Comments: Sir, While you may be a pretty face to look at, a fair actor and an ok singer, you don't come close to having the depth, power and charisma to play the part of the Phantom. It requires someone with experience, passion and the ability to command and channel their voice so well that a woman half their age can realistically be torn by wanting him...and in this...you are just an ok piece of real estate. |
| Name: nicole Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Monmouth County Time: 1999-05-11 19:55:05 Comments: All I really have to say is stop trying to kiss Mr. Webber's behind so much. You know you are not worthy of such a title role. Jus tstop and let real TALENT show you how it is done, an dgo back to your gunfighting muttering movies. Mr. Webber gave you chance, and now it is done, so let teh profesionals take over- thank you. |
| Name: Jessie Lewis Website: Referred by: Clicked on a 'Guestbooks by GuestWorld' Button From: Utah, USA Time: 1999-05-09 18:58:55 Comments: Dear Antonio Banderas: I would love to see you in a movie of The Phantom of the Opera - as Raoul, please. |
| Name: stephanie szlasa Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Pennsylvania Time: 1999-05-08 03:45:39 Comments: Dear Mr.Banderas, I would like to say that you are a very good actor but your accent and strange singing ways are to overbearing and annoying for this movie!I hope that you realize that if you take this part you will seriously hurt your career.So PLEASE PLEASE TAKE SOME OTHER PART |
| Name: Rebecca Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Connecticut Time: 1999-05-07 22:35:26 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: For the love of God please don't take this away from me! I have dreamed about this for as long as I can remember, Michael Crawford starring as the Phantom in the motion picture version of "The Phantom of the Opera." I have never had the opportunity to see Michael Crawford physically perform the role of the Phantom, this is something I long for. I listen to him on CD every waking moment of everyday, I cry at the slightest sound of his magnificent voice. I, like many other Phantom fans, have fallen in love with Michael's unique interpretation of the role of the Phantom. Don't take me wrong, you were wonderful for the role of Ché in Evita, but let me be blunt, YOU CANNOT DO THIS. Michael Crawford is the only one for this part, another man trying would be suicide for that individual. You will tarnish your career if you make this move I assure you. Please do not take this from Michael and his fans we deserve this. We love Michael, please make the right decision, I beg and urge you please. I will be heartbroken if you make this grievous mistake. Trust your instincts give this to Michael, you wont be sorry. |
| Name: Jenn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Rhode Island Time: 1999-05-04 02:05:51 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I greatly enjoyed your work in both "Evita" and "Zorro". But, pardon me for saying, I don't believe that you could give the peformance needed to play the role of the Phantom. I think the part should go to some one who has had experience in playing this role, and knows how audiences react to how certain parts are performed. Mr. Crawford was in "The Phantom of the Opera" for 3 1/2 years and I believe that he could play the role more adequtely than you could. Possibly the role could be yours in the future, but I think if a movie is going to be made they should choose someone with experience. Thank you very much Sincerely, Jenn Adams |
| Name: Megan Depew Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Pennsylvania Time: 1999-04-30 00:10:13 Comments: Dear Mr Banderas, I would like to tell you that I think you are a marvelous actor. I enjoyed your roles in "Evita" and "Zorro" but I am absolutely certain that you would not do well in The Phantom of the Opera. It is not your fault, for you are a very good singer. However, you just don't understand the role well enough and cannot capture people and force them to tears like Mr. Crawford can and has done. I have read a very rude letter that was making fun of you accent. I like your accent but, alas, it is not suited for this film. I know many people who adore this musical only because of Michael Crawford. He has always moved me to tears with his singing but lately, I have been crying for a different reason. I have been thinking about how this role could be stolen from him. If you take the role and leave Mr. Crawford standing in the shadows, you are just being cruel. I know that I (as well as many other fans) would be simply heartbroken if we could not see Michael in this motion picture. You wouls be throwing us into a state of depression and anger. Believe me sir, we would all love you much, much better if you were to take the role of Raoul or Ubaldo Piangi. Please don't rob Michael Crawford of the role God made him to play! Your Fan, Meg |
| Name: Richard
Moore Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Peterborough, Ontario, Canada Time: 1999-04-20 19:44:39 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I think you did a wonderful job in Evita, but there is no way you could do justice to the role of Erik (Phantom). Michael Crawford has the ability and know how to play this role. You are a good actor, but you should try to take the role of Raoul and not the role of the Phantom. There is only one man that can take the role of the Phantom and transform it from the stage to the big screen and that is Michael Crawford!!!! |
| Name: Ana Sol Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Oxnard Time: 1999-04-18 00:42:33 Comments: I'm a devout Crawford fan, so I'm biased. But I speak for lots of POTO fans when I say you can't do a good job of it. I thought you were weak for ALW birthday bash. You don't even have the sensitivity needed for the part. I've read the open letter to ALW and lots of people have signed. That's all the people who just know about this one site. What about the thousands who deplore your theft of a part duly reserved for Crawford. Start thinking with your head instead of other parts. |
| Name: Jan Ploss Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: lompoc Time: 1999-04-18 00:27:40 Comments: Mr Banderas, I loved you in the Zorro remake. You did well in Evita. 'But you, sir, are no Michael Crawford.' It is truly unfortunate that you must perform at 1000% (an impossibility because there is no such percentage above 100%). Mr Crawford is the Phantom people relate all Phantom performances against. You may draw the younger crowds, but I wager they will be one-time viewers. Younger audiences tend to view adventurous plots. Stay with what you do well: romantic, good-looking, swashbuckle type films. I guarantee you will alienate Michael Crawford loyalists. They are the ones that made THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA a theatrical box-office success. I know it is not fair, but it is the way of life. Remember, Madonna is a musical sensation with the younger generation. She was not even nominated for an Oscar. She has a more renown name than yours. I hope you do not anticipate Hollywood worshipping your Phantom role. The legitimate theatre is not the only supporter of Mr Crawford. He won over Hollywood as well. If you have any respect for film integrity, call Lord Lloyd Webber and recommend that you would like to withdraw from your commitment in the name of Mr Crawford. Tell him why. Be a hero! Have integrity! |
| Name: Steven
Sorensen Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: CA, USA Time: 1999-04-08 04:06:59 Comments: Please don't take this the wrong way....but PLEASE don't play the role of the Phantom. MC was born to play this part and it would be a real travesty if we was not to play this part of Erik. Good Luck.....with all your OTHER roles! |
| Name: Cindy Marlowe Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Kentucky Time: 1999-03-24 22:57:51 Comments: Mr. Banderas---A wise actor recognizes that there are just some roles that he should not attempt. The Phantom is one that you should not attempt. This is in no way a reflection on your capabilities as an actor or performer, but the fact is that Michael Crawford has completely claimed this role by his masterful stage performance. Some performances, both stage and screen, are classics that should not be tampered with--Rex Harrison in "My Fair Lady"--Humphrey Bogart in "Casablanca". Every person who attempts to duplicate these roles is held to the standard of the classic performance. Michael Crawford has created such a role in his performance of the Phantom. All stage Phantoms (trained vocalists and stage actors) have been held to his standard, and while their performances have been acceptable, none have compared to Michael's. Now, can a movie actor whose voice is, by his own admission, amateurish at best, hope to avoid being critically held to that standard? I think not.Fans of the Phantom will not be happy, and you might find yourself in the unpleasant position of defending your performance against some tough critics.Make a smart career move, and forego this role. You are much more suited to the part of Raoul. Leave the Phantom to the man who "owns" the part--Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Jessica Olsen Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Crofton Maryland Time: 1999-03-22 18:53:57 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I saw you perform at Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber's 50th Birthday and was impressed with your performance in Evita but not the Phantom. You have a very nice voice but it just doesn't cut for playing him in the movie. Michael Crawford should play it and you know it. Even if you were going to attempt to play him the Spanish accent would have to go. Oh, and by the way it's "Sing FOR me," not "Sing TO me." If I had to make an analgy betweeb you and Michael Crawford, it would be like comparing Michael Jordan and Shannon Anderson. If you've never heard of Shannon Anderson, that's my point exactly. He is a bench warmer for the Utah Jazz. Give it up Anontio. You know you can never go up against THE Phantom, Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Lisa Murphy Website: Referred by: AOL From: Burlingame CA Time: 1999-03-22 18:09:23 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I enjoyed you very much in Zorro and thought you did a good job in Evita, but you would be absolutely miscast in the role of the Phantom. You must know this in your heart, and if you have seen Michael Crawford's portrayal of the Phantom you must know how important it is that he play this role on film. Please help the cause of those who want to see Michael Crawford's performance immortalized. Please speak out in support of him, along with the rest of us. It would be a magnanimous gesture on your part and the right thing to do. Good luck to you in your career, and I hope to see much more of you -- but not in The Phantom! Your fan (and Michael's), Lisa |
| Name: Maggie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY Time: 1999-03-20 12:14:42 Comments: Antonio: After a year of waiting, I finally saw the Andrew Lloyd Webber 50th birthday celebration on TV this week. I have to be blunt...you were out of your element among all those highly trained and experienced musical performers. If this is what we can expect from you in the movie of "The Phantom of the Opera" then I know we are on the right track trying to persuade ALW and Warner Bros. not to give the role to you. You are simply not a singer, Antonio. Your voice is weak, your range is limited, and you had no idea how to phrase the lyrics. You are an amateur and you have no business trying to take on a character whose essence is music. In your hands, the "angel of music" had no soul. If you and Andrew and the mentally challenged executives at Warner Bros. persist in trying to force you onto the public in the "Phantom" film, the public will reject you completely and the critics will crucify you. This could damage your career for years. You have worked long and hard to get where you are now, and this film will be a serious setback for you. You will become a Hollywood joke. We, the paying public, are trying to tell you and everyone else associated with this film that this is a bad move. We will only pay to see one performer as the "Phantom" and that is Michael Crawford. His voice is truly angelic and infuses the character with seductive powers that all your posturing cannot equal. It's all in the voice, Antonio, and you don't have it! Please bow out now and save yourself years of humiliation. |
| Name: Alexandra
Blair Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Phoenix, AZ Time: 1999-03-14 08:37:18 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas- I know that by now you are aware of a campaign to cast Michael Crawford in the movie version of Phantom of the Opera. Please, preserve your own following and career by refusing to play this role, in favor of Mr. Crawford. Do not share the fate of other popular actors who were cast in movie versions of stage hits. Need we mention Julie Andrews winning an Oscar for 'Mary Poppins' because she was not cast in the film version of 'My Fair Lady' - while Audrey Hepburn had to be content with handing her co-star Rex Harrison his Oscar? I know that you may have received some negative and tactless comments from people supporting this campaign. Truly, I do not believe they mean them personally, we are just willing to do whatever we can to ensure Mr. Crawford gets the part. Be aware, this is not just another part in another movie. This part has a life of its own, and Michael Crawford is the ONLY one who can keep it from losing that life. |
| Name: Mark Holguin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Texas Time: 1999-03-06 08:12:14 Comments: AS I CAN RECALL, ERIK IS FRENCH, NOT SPANISH!!! AND I FORGET, ARE YOU FRENCH? DO YOU HAVE A FRENCH ACCENT? DO YOU HAVE A STRONG THICK SPANISH ACCENT? NOW WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO RUIN A PART MADE FOR A FRENCHMAN WITH A SPANISH ACCENT? JUST ANSWER ME THAT!! MARK |
| Name: Geri Zona Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Wildomar, CA Time: 1999-02-26 19:35:11 Comments: Mr. Banderas: You would not be the first to commit career suicide by performing in a part that is not suitable for you. Please consider your potential future and realize that you are not right as the Phantom. Your promising future would be forever damaged if you proceed with the part. I would not want to remember you as the wrong Phantom of the Opera. Millions and millions of Michael Crawford fans will refuse to see the movie with you in the part. It is not that you are disliked, it is just that Michael Crawford is the Phantom and you are forever Zorro. We can hardly see anyone else but you in the part of Zorro, it is the same way with Michael Crawford. He is and forever will be the Phantom. It is sad to say that you as Phantom will result in a potentially successful movie becoming a box office flop. Imagine the fans you will gain if you decline to do the part of the Phantom. I for one would be one of them. |
| Name: Tanith
Messenger Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Southsea, UK Time: 1999-02-12 21:52:06 Comments: Dear Antonio I think that you were wonderful in Evita you fitted the part perfectly, but I think that Michael Crawford is the man for POTO. You have a great voice and I must admit you are gorgeous but the part of the Phantom is just not for you. Sorry All the best Love Tanith |
| Name: Matthias
Loidold Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Essen, Germany Time: 1999-02-07 16:52:30 Comments: Dear Mr Banderas, I loved your way of acting Che in Evita but I don't think you're the right for the part of Erik in POTO. I saw you at ALWs birthday party and I think, that others (like Peter Hofmann or Michael Crawford) would do the job perfect! Matthias Loidold |
| Name: v luna Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: new jersey Time: 1999-01-28 17:29:16 Comments: you were dashing as zorro--but there is only one phantom and he is michael crawford. just like yul was the king!!! i can't support you with this endeavor. best of luck all future endeavors. have you considered rauol? |
| Name: Gino Lyons Website: Positive Thinking and Aspects of Thinking Errors Referred by: From a Friend From: New York Time: 1999-01-28 00:33:37 Comments: I would like to stress that your accent alone would not make a great Phantom. A Zorro yes and a action star. Let me ask you this Question are you going to be like Mario Lanza who Sang his music but was played by another because of his wieght problem?(Student Prince) You see I don't dislike you I think that if you where to play the part then Mr. Michael Crawford would shorley have to cover you voice!!! http://www.geocities.com/SouthBeach/Sandbar/1046/T1.jpg Please leave the Music Of The Night to the real Phantom Of The Night!!! As the Knights Of the round table fought for there fabulas freedom fight so should the original and magical Crawford on that special night:) Thank you Gino Lyons |
| Name: tina
jakes Website: ????? Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: atlanta ga Time: 1999-01-25 03:22:09 Comments: Anyone would want to be the phantom, but I think you should give some serious consideration to the role of Raoul. Right now, you are really too young for the part of the phantom. |
| Name: jen Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Connecticut Time: 1999-01-22 02:28:49 Comments: Please follow your instincts and do not do this movie |
| Name: Joella Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Texas Time: 1999-01-19 19:46:05 Comments: Dear Antonio, You are absolutely right! You don't have time to develope your voice for POTO. You don't have time for that movie at all. You must not waste time on something that will ultimately be your downfall. I have been writing to you for some time, in hopes of convincing you to do the right thing, the heroic thing and get out of this project! Every actor has his strengths and weaknesses, and surely you can see that you have no strengths for this part. One of the important strengths ANYONE should posess is the ability to see what is right--or wrong-- for himself, whether is is a choice of color, what to eat for lunch, or what to do with his life. So far, you have done well--and you have not hurt yourself. I am convinced that POTO is so very wrong for you--and I see that others of your fans feel the same way. The phantom is an OLD guy--a misfit, unloved, a psychotic killer. The only point in his favor is that he can sing, and sing like an angel--so well that he can hypnotize and control the young Christine. You should be choosing roles that show off your talents, not make a mockery of the one talent you lack. That role will tell the world that Antonio Banderas CANNOT sing, and here he is, trying to look like he CAN! I am mystified that you do not see how really awful this would be for your career. I am wondering about the quality of the management that is advising you to take on such a ruinous role. I have enjoyed you in a variety of roles--always hansome, energetic, amusing, memorable. Let me tell you, the role of phantom is none of those, and moreover would point out your non-ability in singing. Don't take on singing roles! I don't know any more ways to tell you this! Why go to all the trouble to try to develope something that ISN'T THERE? Choose roles that play up your strengths and let somebody else do the singing! |
| Name: david Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego Time: 1999-01-08 05:21:05 Comments: Mr. Banderas, What I am going to say is basicly the same as what everyone else has said. Before I heard Phantom I had never heard of Micheal Crawford, after hearing it I wanted to train my voice ot be exactly like his. The role of the phantom is one that I have been pining for since I was a freshman in high school. There is nothing I would rather see on film what I didn't get to see in person, Micheal Crawford as the Phantom. For all any of us know this could be the last time he has a chance to play the Phantom, please let him have the chance to go down in history as the one true Phantom of the Opera. David |
| Name: Melissa
Ambs Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Montreal, Canada Time: 1999-01-07 19:31:35 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I absolutely loved your performance in Evita. I have long studied the life and times of Eva Peron and I felt that you did the role justice. Your talents and your enthusiasm are appreciated, but many of us would simply like to see Michael Crawford reprise a role which he created and which stole the hearts of millions. Please, on behalf of those millions, let the one and only Phantom live again. |
| Name: Carolyn
Carrier Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Chattanooga, TN Time: 1999-01-05 22:42:49 Comments: Please, Mr. Banderas, Michael Crawford is, in my eyes, the only person to play this role on film. He brought the Phantom to life for millions of people, and to shun him now would be heinous. I'm sure you could play another role in the film, such as the handsome and debonair Raoul, the Vicomte de Chagny. Mr. Crawford is the one and only Phantom, and he will always be. |
| Name: Alison Lehto Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Oakland, Maine Time: 1998-12-26 20:09:04 Comments: Dear Antonio, My daughter and I loved your performance in Zorro and Evita. Wonderful! Bravo! We even appreciated your performance for Andrew Lloyd Webber's birthday gala celebration. However, we must say that the only person who should be the phantom is the original, Michael Crawford. I can see you as Raoul; you would be great in that role with your talents and charisma. You, too, must agree that Erik, the Phantom, can only be realisitically played by Michael. Thanks for listening to your fans and for your fine performances that we have had the opportunity to view. Vaca con Dios. P.S. I really enjoyed the write up about you in a past issue of Cowboys - excellent! |
| Name: BiBi Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Southern California Time: 1998-12-08 22:51:55 Comments: Dear Antonio, I have admired your work from the first time I saw you in Desperado. I enjoy all that you have done. I know that you have listened to your fans in that past as to upcoming roles...I ask that you listen once more. I am also a fan of Phantom and would like to see Michael Crawford continue his role as such in the movie. He caught the worlds attention by his fabulous performance, I'm sure you must of seen it. I ask you to allow him to place his talents as the Phantom on film. By doing so future generations may see what the whole world saw. Help make this musical a classic by allowing Mr. Crawford to continue in the role that he created. Thank you for all your efforts to bring us enjoyment via film. I hope you continue to bring us wonderful films such as Zorro. Thank you for listening to your fans and those of Phantom. |
| Name: Erik
Fontaine Website: The Phantom's Lair Referred by: From a Friend From: Nevada Time: 1998-12-06 08:13:22 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas; I know that you've been receiving thousands of letters in regard to your decision to consider the role of the Phantom. Please, I ask you to listen what these letters are saying. You are a fantastic actor, with a charisma that shines through even on the screen. If you are truly interested in working on the Phantom of the Opera, please reconsider and look into the role of the Viscount de Chagny. That role would better fit who you are and who your fans expect you to be. Raoul is dashing, charming, handsome, a true hero, with a personality that stands on the full physicality of the actor. The Phantom, however, has to rely mainly on his voice and the subtle language of his body to convey his passion. In all honestly, you are far too much of an extrovert to be confined beneath the mask of the Phantom. Heed the words of the fans who will support this film to the fullest if you step aside and return the part to it's creator. It was Michael Crawford who gave the Phantom a voice. Millions know him as the Phantom, through the stage, and the album that followed. Try for a role which everyone knows you can perform and acknowledge that there is a better man for the lead in this production. Sincerely, Erik Fontaine |
| Name: D. Bruns Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego, CA Time: 1998-11-25 02:53:22 Comments: Mr. Banderas, It must be very upsetting for you to learn just how many fans of the musical "Phantom of the Opera" do NOT want you to play the lead in the film. You cannot ignore the groundswell of disapproval that has greeted the news of your intention to make this film. Whose voice will be dubbed-in to replace yours? Or do you seriously believe that in just a few months you can prepare yours for the demanding role of the Phantom? All over the world, the voice of Michael Crawford is known and loved as the Phantom's. His incredible voice and expressive acting defined the character, which his followers have invariable tried to copy. His award winning stage performance is the one that should be on permanent record so that future generations can enjoy it as we have. A far wiser choice for you would be to play Raoul, the handsome and romantic, young hero who wins the lovely Christine. I'm certain that it would please your own fans much more than to see you as an ugly, murderous madman who wears a mask and hideous make-up. Do the right thing and leave the the white mask and the cape to Michael Crawford. He really owns this role. |
| Name: Lynne
Henderson Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: New York, NY Time: 1998-11-19 19:08:03 Comments: Surely as an actor you can appreciate and agree that certain roles "belong" to a particular actor no matter how capable or wonderfully unique another actor would be in that role, and that certain interpretations of a role are classic and should be preserved--and how many have been lost. Michael created and defined the soul of Eric and knows him better than anyone else, and can bring him to life better than anyone else--and can sing Eric better than anyone else. You will have "your" role that is yours alone that you will want generations to see--please let Michael have his. |
| Name: Ronald
Martinelli Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Taylor/PA Time: 1998-11-17 01:50:14 Comments: Antonio, I love your work. You have done some amazing things. Surprised the hell out of me when I hear and saw you in Evita. But, come on, do you really think that the role of the Phantom should be designated to anyone but Michael Crawford. When the whole concept of Phantom was just a glimmer, whom did they pick to play the role? |
| Name: Sue Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-11-16 06:46:39 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Surely you now know that this role will never be yours. Phantom fans will never accept you. Your fast rise could take a decided downturn if this blockbuster fails because of your performance. And it will. You are a talented actor, with a lot of fire and heart. But you do not have the necessary skills or even years to pull this part off. Take roles that will enhance your reputation, not the one that will forever degrade you. Sincerely, Sue K. |
| Name: DONNELLA INGLIS Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: WELLINGTON NEW ZEALAND Time: 1998-11-05 20:49:18 Comments: dear AB yes you did ok in evita but taking Masterful Michael Crawford away from Phantom would be like having Bonnie without Clyde!!!!!!!!!! It just shouldnt happen. Do the right thing and give it up or else you will lose a lot of fans..I'm a HUGE fan of Michael and have been for 20 years there is only one Phantom and you AB are definatley not it. |
| Name: Deborah
DeVane Website: The Summerlands Referred by: From a Friend From: Fort Worth, Texas Time: 1998-10-30 18:10:57 Comments: This is to say to Antonio Banderas, that I adored you in Evita, and enjoyed you in Zorro, but I'm sorry... Phantom is not the role for you. I hope you will show the grace of a true gentleman and decline the role ... or better yet, support Michael Crawford for the part. There are certain roles that just belong to certain people ... this is one of those. I do, however, look forward to seeing you in anything else you are cast in. All my love and best wishes to you and Melanie and your baby. |
| Name: Kara
Derma (Future Christine DAAE) Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ontario Canada Time: 1998-10-20 21:58:30 Comments: Hello, I'm not sure if you're not going to read this. I respect you as an actor, you were great as Che in Evita. I don't mind if you play the role of th Phantom, as long if you can sing as well as the great MC. I don't want to be disappointed when the movie comes out, a lot of phans have been waiting for a long time for ALW to plan for this movie. I'm looking forward to it. I hope you understand of how great of a singer you are, but MC was made for the role of the Phantom. Imagine MC playing your role of Che, (no offense MC) I don't think he was made for the role, it certainly wouldn't be his best role. It's just another offer for you, good opportunity. Your descision. So you can take this role, make your money, have a good life with good fortune. But will the response be as good as your fortunate life? |
| Name: Niamh Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ireland Time: 1998-10-18 17:59:11 Comments: Antonio, please, please, please, for the love of God, do not take on the role of phantom on the big screen. You do not posess the voice for this role and everybody I have spoken to about this is horrified at the thought of someone other than Michael Crawford taking the role. I myself saw the Phantom on stage for the first time last night in Dublin's Point Depot theatre. Scott Davies, who played the role was wonderful and his voice was able to handle the demanding role. It stands to reason that the man who created the role, which won so many peoples hearts, sometimes by only listening to it on a CD (I am one of these), should be the logical choice for the film. I am certain that any film version which does not star Michael Crawford, will not do well, either in Ireland or England. If it helps, I think you might make a good Raoul. THINK ABOUT IT!!!!!!!! |
| Name: Dori Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego Co., CA Time: 1998-10-15 00:42:19 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I saw "The Phantom of the Opera" in Hollywood last weekend with Davis Gaines, who is a fine, trained singer. However, he lacks the vocal and emotional quality, to say nothing of the range, of the MASTER, Michael Crawford. It was a long drive to LA from where I live, so I played some Crawford tapes to help pass the time. Listening to his voice and comparing it to others I have heard singing the same songs made me realize even more what a unique talent he has. And unlike most singers, Placido Domingo, for one, he just keeps getting better. I have heard you sing in "Evita", and although I thought that you did just fine for what was required, I cannot see how you can possibly prepare your voice to sing the role of the Phantom. No matter how many lessons you take, it just isn't there. If you had a voice, you would have found it and trained it from an early age, as Michael Crawford did. I'd like to make one other point about your playing the Phantom. Your fans won't like it. It is an opera, you know, with the libretto sung, not spoken. Can you honestly hope that your "Mambo Kings", "Desperado", and "Zorro" fans will sit still for this? Think about it. |
| Name: Maggie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY Time: 1998-10-09 04:46:03 Comments: Antonio: Don't do this movie. Bad career move. VERY bad! No matter how good a singer you and Andrew Lloyd Webber think you are, there is no way you can compete with a man who has been classically trained for over 20 years and who has become indelibly identified with this character in the public's mind (and ear) for the past 12 years. No matter how many other actors have played the Phantom on stage, there is only one actor whom millions of Phantom fans think of when that show is mentioned...Michael Crawford. It will be like performing with a ghost looking over your shoulder. Every note you sing, every word you say, every gesture you make will be compared to him by the public and the press all over the world. You cannot make the slightest mistake or be the tiniest bit inferior to Michael's performance or you and Andrew and Warner Bros. will be shredded by public opinion. Bad career move...mark my word. Don't do it. Don'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tdon'tDON'T DO IT!!! Get the message? This would be comparable to playing Rhett Butler in a remake of "Gone With The Wind." An actor would have to be suicidal to do that. There was only one actor born to play that role, and he played it to perfection. The Phantom is the same way. As fate has apparently planned it, there is only one actor the public will accept in this movie. Decline this role while you still can and go on to success in others that are better suited to you. Millions of potential Phantom moviegoers will be forever grateful to you. |
| Name: Randi Lacy Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Florida USA Time: 1998-09-30 09:08:30 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: I am a teacher, singer, and sometime actress who has been an avid fan of "The Phantom of the Opera" in all its many forms for years. I have loved the musical since it first debuted on Broadway. I was privileged to see the national road company production on tour. I have been an enthusiastic admirer of Michael Crawford since his angelic, passionate voice first brought me to tears years ago. All this having been said, I must also say that I admire your work, as well. I am happy for you in your successes. However, Mr. Banderas, this is one time when I cannot support you or condone your actions. You see, many exceedingly talented actor/singers have portrayed the Phantom on stages around the world in these twelve years since its debut (has it really been that long?); and although they were all gentlemen of professional integrity and considerable ability, there really is only one man who seems to have been born into this world to play the part. That man is Michael Crawford. Please consider what it took for him to get the role in the first place: YEARS, NOT MONTHS, YEARS OF VOCAL TRAINING. YEARS, NOT MONTHS, YEARS OF STAGE EXPERIENCE. Passion. Sensitivity to the character. STRENUOUS, ELABORATE, ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF REHEARSAL AND PRACTICE. His is a God-given gift that enabled him to breathe life into a difficult and classic character. The Phantom is to Michael Crawford what Hamlet was to Sir Laurence Olivier. At least Olivier got the chance to portray his most closely identified role on the big screen; Michael Crawford deserves the same opportunity. No matter how much you may want to portray this character, Mr. Banderas, you must understand that you will be seen as nothing more than a pretender to the throne. The crown has belonged to Michael Crawford from the second he first stepped out onto the stage in that mask and cape, from the first moment he opened his mouth and sung the first note of music from the score. No matter how many other talented individuals play the part, including you, no one will ever be able to dethrone him. We, the ardent fans of both the man and the role, beg you to have the class to respect the character, too... especially if you love it as we do. You will be seen in an even brighter light by the moviegoing public if you put ego aside and do the right thing. And stepping down from the film IS the right thing to do, make no mistake. This is not your part to play, sir, no matter how much you may want it. This part belongs to Michael Crawford; please have the dignity and maturity to see this. Help us to support what's fair and what's right. You won't regret it. Sincerely, Randi Lacy |
| Name: teo hsiao
hui Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Singapore Time: 1998-09-24 13:19:11 Comments: Dear A.B. and any other people who are concerned, If you were to compare A.B. and M.C. (Michael Crawford), you should know who was to choosen as THE PHANTOM. A.B., if you think you can sing better or act better than M.C., then consider yourself for the role. if you knew yourself better, you should reject the role. M.C. is the one and only choice for the phantom. |
| Name: BEN Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: ARIZONA Time: 1998-09-24 03:22:36 Comments: dear A.B. you will never ever read this but i want to tell you something. DON'T TAKE THE ROLE. it is not yours. give it up and give the role to MICHAEL CRAWFORD. he is the real erik. and you are not. HAVE YOU EVERY PERFORMED WITHOUT A NET????? i may sound mean but this movie is going to bomb with you in it. this is not your role. i have seen you in other movies but this is a movie i do not want to see you in. you can do this but like many other people this is one movie i will not be seeing. unless you give it up and give it to MICHAEL CRAWFORD.. he was hurt once don't hurt him again.. i love THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and i will go see the movie with MICHAEL CRAWFORD but with you i'll save my money. sorry |
| Name: Paul R.
Faulkner Website: N/A Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Garrett, IN,USA Time: 1998-09-23 04:28:59 Comments: Mr. Banderas, Something tells me you probably won't ever see this but I thought I'd sent it anyway. First I must say I think you're a great actor, you were wonderfull in Evita and Desparado, as well as some of your Spanish language films I've seen. I also loved Zorro and I am glad you've successfully become the first Spanish actor to play the role. However, the role of the Phantom of the Opera SHOULD NOT BE YOURS. MICHAEL CRAWFORD was born to play the Phantom. How would you like it if you had been promised the role verbally for Zorro, and you spent several years trying to make your character perfect only if someone else, say Tom Cruise stole the role out from under your feat. I realise it may be your dream to play this role. But guess what? It's my dream too, but I have to face reality that no one would hire me because my voice isn't as good as it must be. As much as I would hate to have seen Tom Cruise play Zorro, I would not like you playing the Phantom. I realise you have legions of fans and my letter probably won't do a darn thing. Sometimes for the good of something you must sacrifice what you want. I know, I've done it before. Please make a Zorro sequel, or the continuing stories of Che, BUT NOT THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. God be with you on this decision and success on all future endeavors other than the Phantom of the Opera. |
| Name: Diane
Ahrens Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Time: 1998-09-15 03:16:53 Comments: Mr. Banderas- Please talk to Warner Bros. and tell them that you understand that Michael Crawford is the only person in this world to reprise HIS role as the Phantom of the Opera. No one can match his voice and the passion that he brings to the role. I have not had the opportunity to view any of your films - I have to wait until the film is released to cable, due to a handicapped husband. From what I have heard, you are a great actor! But please do not disappoint all of Michael's fans, who have been waiting over 10 years to see Michael Crawford perform this role! |
| Name: Patrick
Martin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Portland, OR Time: 1998-09-13 11:14:16 Comments: Mr. Banderas - short and straight: The producers of MY FAIR LADY approached Cary Grant to play Prof. Henry Higgins. Grants answer: "Not only will I not play Prof. Higgins, but if you don't hire Rex Harrison, I won't even SEE MY FAIR LADY." True story. My Point - you are handsome, like Grant. You are a box office draw, also like Grant. But you are not a stage performer, like Grant. You will BE FAMOUS for SO many other things - like Cary Grant. This is Michael Crawford's fame - his shot. Grant understood. PLEASE understand also. Please. |
| Name: Stacy
Birdsall Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: San Jose, California Time: 1998-09-10 16:19:45 Comments: Mr. Banderos, I am a HUGE fan of the Phantom of the Opera! When I heard you had accepted the role I was VERY disappointed. If you really wanted to play the role, you should have started on the stage as Crawford or one of the other Phantoms did. They know how to bring the role to life and make the passion, angst, frustration etc. come alive. Even though you are an accomplished actor, without having previous experience with the role, you could NOT possibly understand the emotional and vocal range this character requires! Bow out gracefully and you will please SO many Phans like myself who have nothing against your acting ability personally, just a total devotion to a role that simply cannot be brought to life on the big screen! Sincerely, Stacy Birdsall |
| Name: Clare Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-09-09 22:17:52 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Please don't do this. Please don't break my heart...because that is what you will do, if you wilfully choose to go ahead and star in The Phantom of the Opera. Please don't desecrate a beautiful, sensual performance by one of the greatest performers of all time. Please don't ruin your career! Do you realize how many people will hate you forever if you try to become the Phantom of the Opera? Many, many people, myself included, would not go see a movie that was connected with you in any way, ever again. You are messing with something serious here. I don't think you have any idea. Please, Mr Banderas! I am begging you from the heart, PLEASE DON"T ACCEPT THIS ROLE! |
| Name: Joel Tobey Website: Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement From: Dayton, OH Time: 1998-09-05 16:50:22 Comments: I hope you understand that by accepting the role of the Phantom, you will cause not only me, but many more to boycott all Warner Bros. products and anything you have done! Yes, that means no more watching Batman! Just think of what impact you are doing by stealing someone elses role. |
| Name: Katarina Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Jacksonville, Florida Time: 1998-08-30 02:26:16 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I do agree with the others in saying that you have had your fair share of parts on the big screen. This part of Phantom, however, is not yours to play. You see, Mr. Crawford was born to play this part, and was given the chance in 1990, but it was taken away. How would you feel if a part that you have played in over 1300 broadway performances in over 10 years was taken away from you. Pretty bad, isn't it? Well, that's what Mr. Crawford will have to deal with for the rest of his life. There will be other films for you like there have been in the past...it is his calling, and only he will give it the performance of a lifetime. |
| Name: Marisa
Holland Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Denver City, TX Time: 1998-08-26 02:43:11 Comments: I have nothing against your acting, but the only person who should play the Phantom is the person who made him famous |
| Name: Christina
Hicks Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Pennsylvaina Time: 1998-08-25 14:56:39 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I understand that you would like to play the role of Erik in the Phantom of the Opera Movie. But you do not have the voice which Erik deserves, only one man has portrayed Erik as he deserves after all the injustice he has endured, and that person is Mr. Michael Crawford. He has made Erik's life come alive to many of the Phantoms fans, please let him do the same for many others to enjoy and learn of Erik's life. |
| Name: Mary Ann Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: New Jersey Time: 1998-08-25 03:09:14 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I am writing to you as a fan of "The Phantom of the Opera." You have said recently that it is a dream of yours to play this role in a film adaptation. I have a dream too--a dream which I've had since 1990 when Warner Bros. first announced that they would make this movie. In that press release, it was announced that Michael Crawford would recreate his award-winning portrayal of the Phantom, and the Executive VP of Warner Bros. Worldwide Motion Picture Production said that Warners was delighted to be working with Mr. Crawford because it would preserve the integrity of the original show. I have waited for eight years for this film, not the film that is now being discussed, but the one that would bring to the screen the character created by Michael Crawford. This film is my dream and the dream of thousands of others--those who saw Michael Crawford in "Phantom" and many who haven't seen him but have heard him sing the music on records, on television, and on concert stages all over the world. His voice is the voice of the angel inside a tortured man. It is a voice that cannot be matched by someone who plans to spend a few months in vocal training. Twelve million people know how the Phantom sounds; he sounds like Michael Crawford. If you love this character as we do, love him enough to give him up to the man who embodies his voice and his soul. For that gesture, we will love you forever. |
| Name: Rita
Snodgrass Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Burton, KS Time: 1998-08-25 01:02:36 Comments: Please, please do not accept the role of the Phantom in the upcoming film version of The Phantom of the Opera. I can't help but think that this would be a very unwise career move, especially when things seem to be going so well for you. You have to know that should you choose to accept this role, your performance will be forever compared to Michael Crawford's. Is that what you want? Please give the mask and cape back to Michael Crawford. He is the one true Phantom and always will be. The very thought of this film being made without Michael Crawford makes me heartsick! I just want you to know that I will *never* see a film version of POTO without Michael Crawford. I implore you to give some serious thought to what you really hope to gain from this. I would respect you much more for doing the right thing, turning down this role, then I ever could if you accept it, no matter how good your performance might be. |
| Name: Dori Bruns Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Fallbrook, CA Time: 1998-08-24 21:50:43 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Newspaper articles are now stating what has been rumored for some time: that you have been awarded the part of Erik in the film, "Phantom of the Opera". You are no doubt feeling very pleased with your victory over the fans of the stage musical. But that doesn't mean that they are going to let up on the campaign against this film. Without a trained tenor as the Phantom, the movie will be scorned by the critics and ignored by POTO fans. Without Michael Crawford, his fans will not only ignore, they will boycott the film. They are furious over this casting. You people have made enemies of the very audiences you should be trying to please. Twelve million people bought the original cast recording. They know what the real Phantom sounds like. Millions more saw the stage play, they, too, know that the Phantom's voice is that of a trained singer, as the difficult score requires. ALW and Warner Brothers could have made a major film success with "Phantom", if they had made it with Michael Crawford. People would be seeing the film over and over, as they have with the stage version, and would be buying the video and cast recordings. But the studio people have chosen to make a quick buck. No matter how much they spend on vocal digital enhancement and other special effects, they are not going to make your voice sound like the the "Angel of Music". And if they finally realize that they will need to dub your voice, you will be the laughing stock of Hollywood. Such fakery is no longer accepted by modern movie audiences. Especially, when Michael Crawford was willing and able to play the part and to sing the score, as he has done for over 1300 times, with his truly incredible, but very real voice. And he is not going to stop singing the Phantoms's songs. Your voice will be compared with his until the movie is totally forgotten, which should not take long. |
| Name: Dolly Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Texas Time: 1998-08-24 21:00:41 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I must echo those last few letters. They were well-written and speak the truth. Your management should realize that this is not the role for you and dissuade you from even considering it. It would be a desecration, both of your career and the movie version of POTO. If Michael had decided to portray Zorro, you can be sure that all his fans would have camped on his doorstep trying to talk him out of it. Where are your fans? Why is no one trying to save you from a role that is totally wrong for you? You need some better representation--some people who recognize your strengths (and singing IS NOT one of them) and can get the ;roles for you that will build your career instead of sending you after a role so out of character as to be ludicrous. You can hold your own when compared to the Gibsons, or the Arnolds, or the Careys, but no one can be compared to Michael Crawford as the Phantom and LIVE to tell about it. Sorry, Antonio, that's the way it IS. Dolly |
| Name: Linda Frey Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Apollo, PA Time: 1998-08-24 17:23:59 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I am trying to think of a nice way to put this -- If Michael Crawford had tried to play your role in Evita, it would not have worked. He is English and even though he has a great voice, he could not be Spanish. The same goes for you. If you play the Phantom, it isn't going to be believable. All the singing lessons in the world will not make you able to sings the songs as they were met to be sung. Your face will be completely covered. You will have to depend on your voice to pull this off and your voice just won't sound right. As I am sure you are aware, there are a lot of people who have been waiting for a lot of years to see this movie. We have spent a lot of our hard earned money on this play and in buying the Phantom key rings, postcards, CD's, tapes, etc. We will not spend one dime to see you in this role. In fact, I am so upset I couldn't even bring myself to see you in Zorro. I have no desire to see you in anything and I made sure my family skipped it also. I have never done anything like this before but I am really upset over this. I feel betrayed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Warner Bros. and I won't support either of them. I have seen my last Andrew Lloyd Webber production. The man gets no more of my money. I am not alone in this. It is not just the Michael Crawford fans but the theater audience and anyone who has ever seen The Phantom of the Opera. Articles appear every week about how poorly Warner Bros. is doing. With decisions like this one, I can understand why. I hope Warner Bros. & Andrew Lloyd Webber lose their shirts on this one! |
| Name: Angela Coots Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Leawood, KS Time: 1998-08-24 16:15:00 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: I am writing to you as an outraged musician. After reading comments you made in several different interviews regarding your proposed training for the "Phantom of the Opera" film, I must say, I AM HIGHLY INSULTED!! As somone who has studied music for over 20 years, I can tell you that THREE MONTHS of signing lessons does NOT a singer make! As any musician can tell, the study of music is a life-long pursuit. Three months is barely enough time to learn to breathe properly, let alone sing. Truly dedicated musicians can spend months working on a single piece of music and weeks perfecting a single passage or phrase in that piece. Months can be spent working on developing a 3 note interval in one of the registers in the voice. The preparation for playing role of the Phantom is not something you can rush! It's not like a mid-term exam you can "cram" for. You can't pull a "so-called" all-nighter and expect to do any justice to the role or the music.You're management needs to be doing a better job for you. I'm not sure they've fully explained what you'll be up against is you insist upon stealing this role. There have been TWELVE MILLION copies of the Original London Cast Recording of "Phantom" sold worldwide and those twelve million people will walk into this movie (or then again, maybe they will show their disdain for your interpretation of the role by NOTwalking into the movie) expecting to hear the voice they've grown to cherish over the past 12 years. 12 years, Mr. Banderas, of listening to and learning every note, phrase and inflection of Michael Crawford's incomparable performance. Can't you see the reviews now? No matter what your performance, critics will still be sayiing, "...but he's NO Michael Crawford." You will come out the loser in the end, not because of who you are, but because of who you AREN'T. Please consider carefully whether or not you feel your career can take a severe blow at this point in time.Show us the chivalry is NOT dead. Follow in the footsteps of the incredibly classy Cary Grant, and turn down this role. Tell the powers-that-be at Warner Brothers that there is only ONE Phantom you want to see on screen. Give the movie going public what they have been clamouring for for the past 8 years. Let us have the legendary performance of Michael Crawford perserved for all-time.Yours,Angela Coots |
| Name: Laura Julius Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Cincinnati, OH Time: 1998-08-24 08:27:26 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I want to tell you how much I have enjoyed you in your movies, and seeing you appear on numerous shows. You seem like a very nice and personable man. However, recent rumors have stated that you have signed to play the Phantom in the movie version of The Phantom of the Opera. For this,I am very dissapointed in you. The role of the Phantom belongs to one man and one man alone: Michael Crawford. This is the man who originated the role on every major stage, who played it over 1300 times, who won ALL the prestigious awards for his portrayl, who has sold 12 million copies of the original cast recording, and who is forever identified as the TRUE Phantom of the Opera. Surely this must mean something to you! You're taking away a role from a man who knows and feels this character as much and as well as he knows himself, and can instantly transform into him every time he needs to. He was promised this role a long time ago, but the project never took off. Now, eight years later, they say they're ready to make it, but not with Michael as the Phantom. I can't tell you how many people were distressed over the fact that they would never get to see Michael immortilize his brilliant portrayl, or how many people were upset when they learned they wanted to use a more "bankable" star, who probably couldn't even do the role any justice.I know I am one of those people. Mr. Banderas, I am NOT questioning your ability to perform this role, but I am asking you to be open-minded, truthful, and THINK about what I am asking you: How can you possibly believe that you can replace Michael Crawford in the role that BELONGS to him and that HE made famous, and expect people to accept you? How can you think that a few months of singing lessons will help you command this role? How can you do this to the man who was promised the role WAY before you came to Hollywood and started singing? How can you accept this role, knowing that MILLIONS of people are expecting Michael Crawford to reprise HIS role, but instead get someone who has only had a few MONTHS of singing lessons, and has never ONCE been familiar with the character or played him? How can you think that you can "woo" us away from Crawford's legendary portrayl of the role to another interpretation? How can you continue to keep persuing this role, after ALL the protesting and ALL the people who are telling you to "step down" from the role and let Michael Crawford perform his legendary role one last time? How can you do this to all the Phantom fans, Michael Crawford fans,and musical theatre fans who want Crawford and ONLY Crawford? And, most importantly, how can you do this to YOURSELF? You KNOW that MANY people are against you in this role and have been protesting to you about it, and yet you STILL are saying that you're "The Man" for the role?! Because of that, I have lost all respect for you, as an actor and as a human being, because no offense, Mr. Banderas, I think you are being one of the most egotistical and selfish people I have ever seen. To ignore what the media says about you is fine, but to ignore the people who make or break your career is one of the most costly mistakes you can do. Please, all we ask is that you put aside your ego for a moment and think about what you're getting yourself into. Think about what everyone has said to you about declining from this role, and also all the questions and comments I have stated above; do you really want millions of people who feel EXACTLY the way I do to destroy your career? I know you don't, and I don't either. So please, take time to reflect on what everyone has been pleading to you: Please decline from the role and let Michael Crawford, the TRUE Phantom of the Opera, immortilize HIS role. Thank you for listening. Laura Julius |
| Name: Lizzie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Kansas Time: 1998-08-24 06:42:56 Comments: Sir: I understand your desire to play the role of Erik (the Phantom); however, have you really thought this through? The vocal demands are far beyond anything you have done before and, personally, I do not believe you can meet them. You have much talent but you do NOT have the voice of the Angel of Music. I fear that if you persist in this folly you will become a laughingstock because your singing will be compared to that of Michael Crawford at every turn. His voice is forever linked to that thrilling music and you cannot hope to match it. Please look for roles for which you are better suited. The Phantom part requires much more than merely dashing about in a mask and cape and crooning some little ballads. I'd like to see you find much success in your future in other roles but please leave the Phantom alone! -- Lizzie |
| Name: Kathryn Vermeer Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Las Vegas NV Time: 1998-08-24 05:45:11 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Thousands of letters have been sent to Warner Bros., and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Whether they are being read, or ignored, does not change what they are saying. The movie audience for this film, has made it very clear, that they do not want to see this movie with you, Travolta, or anyone, other than the man who created the unforgetable character. That man was, and still is, Michael Crawford. We do not want a "new and different" Phantom. We want the voice and performance that made the world fall in love with "Phantom of the Opera". Your insistence on getting this role, is a big mistake for all concerned. A recent announcement, by your agent, that you have supposedly signed for this role, only enhances our dedication in making our point known to the general public, the film industry, and the media. Not only will we NOT go and see this film, if you are cast, we will continue to negatively impact it's future success. We do this, not out of disrespect for you, but with a deep, and sincere desire to preserve the "unparalleled" personification of Erik, by Michael Crawford. Any other interpretation, will prove to be a pointless, offensive imitation. My suggestion, to you sir, is to set your ego aside, make a wise decision to not participate, and go on to other projects that will further your illustrious career. Kathryn Vermeer |
| Name: Athena Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: California Time: 1998-08-23 07:56:56 Comments: Dear Antonio, I think you are a really great actor and I admire all your work, but lets get searious here do you really think you can take on the role of the Phantom as well as Michael Crawford can, he has been singing practicaly all his life and he knows the role of the Phantom. He is deffinatly a better choice for the the role. MC can hold notes and hit the extremely high difficult notes. Although I liked you in the Evita, you didn't even try Che's songs with the difficult task of strong high notes. I think if you really wanted to be a part of the Phantom family I would suggest you take on the role of Raoul. He is a sexy young man much like you. And he does get the girl |
| Name: Linda
Armstrong Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: calif Time: 1998-08-21 17:56:43 Comments: Mr Banderas: You are a wonderful actor, I love all your movies, and, from the interviews I've seen and read, you seem like a good man with a great sense of humor, honor, and dedication. You would be perfect for Raoul, which also requires singing, more than your Evita role, and less than the Phantom role. It would be a perfect place for your singing talents, plus "Christine's" struggle would be intensifyed by "Raoul", you and "Erik", Mr Crawford, fighting for her love. What a decision: choosing between the exquistely handsome "Raoul" you, which represents her desire for a soul mate, or the hypnotic musical superiority of "Eric" Mr Crawford, representing her love of music, voice, and song. Now that would be an edge-of-your-seat experience! Please think of ALL aspects of your decision before you sign on the dotted line. Thank you for reading my humble thoughts; I'm a true fan of two talented men. |
| Name: Serena
Agusto Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Massachusetts Time: 1998-08-18 03:58:13 Comments: Dear Antonio, Though you captivated me with your voice in Evita, The Phantom movie would be best serve if you would kindly and respectfully bow out. I have every confidence that you (in the future) with some voice lessons would be better prepared to fulfill the requirements for the role of Erik. As you might have listened to Michael Crawford's rendition of the role, I'm sure you'll agree that the first is always the best. There is good reason for this. Andrew Lloyd Webber took great pride in his search for the perfect Phantom. In fact, it was the last role he cast. Michael Crawford impressed Lloyd Webber with his interpretation and performance in the role. Hence he won the Tony. Not only is Mr. Crawford capable of fulfilling the vocal requirements for the role, but the character is an older man . . . a tortured soul seeking solice in his music. You are much too young to want to experience or portray such a tortured soul in an effective manner. I would say that you would greatly increase my respect for you as an actor and human being if you were to allow Mr. Crawford to continue his role as the Phantom. Sincerely, Serena M. Agusto |
| Name: Toni Ryon Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Time: 1998-08-17 07:28:04 Comments: Dear Antonio: You were a marvelous Zorro, but the little true singing you were required to do in Evita does not acquit you well for the role of Erik. The Phantom is an older man, a mentor, a teacher, an emotionally starved father figure. You are not at the point in your career where you can do this role justice. So please, don't destroy the chance for Phantom of the Opera to be a truly great movie. Michael Crawford has already proved his ability to carry this role - on stage, in recording, on television, and in past movie roles. He is the only true Phantom of the Opera, you would be just an actor doing a less-than-adequate portrayal. |
| Name: Hayleigh
Kennedy Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: England Time: 1998-08-16 22:24:53 Comments: Dear sir, You are a very good actor and i`m sure you`ll sign many great movie deals but i`m just not sure that this is for you, there is just two things you have to think of if you are determand to play this role, one is that you would be taking the part from a very good actor with many more years of experiance than yourself. Second is you go and read "the Phantom" by Susan Kay and you ask yourself if you can play the role of the twisted lovelost man that was Erik, because Eriks life did not just begin at the point of the Opera House he lived a full life which you would never damn on anyone. Yours faithfully Hayleigh Kennedy |
| Name: Jonathan
Palma Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Las Vegas, NV. Time: 1998-08-16 08:57:28 Comments: Mr. Banderas I am 17 and I loved you in Evita! Without you that film just wouldn't of worked out! I just got the soundtrack for my birthday this past month and I listen to it alot! My brother at first thought the film was ok and then he listened to it last night and now can't stop playing it! Now he wants to see the film again! Mr. Banderas, I am studying filmmaking and I am getting together with a Producer early next year to get my own film off the ground. I am 5 hours from Los Angeles, CA., and I am very focused! Anyway, I think that you are a phenominal singer and actor and you are the perfect example of hard work paying off and you are now a superstar! However, I must confess Mr. Banderas that I feel as though Mr. Michael Crawford deserves this role for all the years of his own hard work! You are great and no one denies that, but Mr. Crawford worked for years on the Phantom of the Opera, and then when that ended, he wanted to do the film. I realize that this is a great opportunity for you and I know that you'd do this very well, but Mr. Crawford, in my mind, has a softer voice which is very necissary for this role! Please don't be frustrated with my comments and I know that you have a great voice, but it doesn't go as the Phantom. I would like to see you as that other guy that loves Christine in the film but not the Phantom. I don't mean to affend you but, Michael Crawford fans feel like Michael deserves this, not that you don't, but that he would be best! I know that there are more Antonio fans and just the general public that think you'd do the film great! I know you'd do it great, however, Michael Crawford fans will cause an uproar and very bad publicity which wouldn't be good for the film! I wouldn't be one, but Warner Bros., know about bad publicity killing there films! And, after the huge success of Zorro, you wouldn't want to hurt your status if the film doesn't do as well and gets bad publicity! Please really think about this decision. Please think of Mr. Crawford, your career, your fans, Crawford's fans, Warner Bros., and the press. I know that most stage people can't do film very well, therefore I don't know how Mr. Crawford acts. If he can't act, please disregard this mail. Thank you Mr. Banderas and Good Luck :-) Jonathan Palma Director/Producer Las Vegas, NV. |
| Name: Kathleen
Goodwin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Bath, Maine Time: 1998-08-16 01:24:48 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: I saw Zorro last night and thoroughly enjoyed it. You were perfect for the part - just as Michael Crawford is perfect for the part of the Phantom. Please do what is best for you and for the integrity of the movie, and refuse the part. As you must have figured out by now, Crawford fans and Phantom fans in general are a dedicated - almost phanatical - group of people ranging from children to senior citizens. If you do step down, you will gain tens of thousands more fans than you have now. We will not soon forget your generosity and your class. Thank you. |
| Name: Sommer
Sherman Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Vicksburg, MS Time: 1998-08-15 05:15:56 Comments: Mr. Banderas, You are a very wonderful, talented man in the movie business. You are very deliteful and funny, and your movies are of great skill. However, the performance of the Phantom does not seem to be suited for you or anyone else other than Michael Crawford himself. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure you could a nice performance, but Michael has worked too hard as the Phantom to designate his role to another man. He has put his heart into this character to create the emotional feel and depth of his pain and torment. I believe it would be criminal to deprive him of this act. Thank you and good day. Sincerely, 13 year old Sommer Sherman |
| Name: Linda Ames Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Time: 1998-08-15 03:25:02 Comments: we do love you too, antonio. you could be raul. you were great in evita and fantastic in zorro, but the phantom is michael crawford! |
| Name: HayleyJade Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-08-15 00:21:37 Comments: I am adding my voice to the hundreds of others posted here and request that you decline the role of the Phantom. I have had the privilege of seeing this show seven times and NO ONE has moved me to tears the way Michael Crawford has. Please, please, please leave this role to the man who created The Man behind the Monster that the Phantom really was. |
| Name: Joy K.
Whitehead Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-08-13 18:50:54 Comments: I have seen many of your movies, and they are very good. You are a wonderful actor. However, please do not try to become the phantom of the opera. There can be no other. Michael Crawford was born for this role. No one could compare!!! |
| Name: Angelica
Danae Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Michigan Time: 1998-08-13 13:10:14 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, first let me say you are a great actor. I have yet to see Zorro, but I am looking forward to it. You are a wonderful Fox, but I am sorry, you are not a Phantom. Michael Crawford has created this role, and he is the only one who could ever fill it. I have heard you sing, and while you sound good, you are not the Angel of Music. Please, please Antonio, leave this role for someone who deserves it. If you don't this movie will fail, and many fans, both yours and Erik's, will be more than disappointed--they will be heartbroken. I hope that somehow you receive and read these letters. Please listen. Angelica |
| Name: Dori Bruns Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Fallbrook, CA Time: 1998-08-12 23:18:03 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I understand that you attended the Michael Crawford concert this past Sunday evening. If so, it must have been abundantly clear to you that his fans adore him and want him to play the lead in the Phantom film. The Phantom is his role and it will always be identified with his marvelous voice. Do you think that your voice could pack the Hollywood Bowl as his did? Without the mask or the cape, he dropped the funny stories, and became the Phantom before our eyes. That voice, the hand gestures, and the body movements are what Michael Crawford used to create the Phantom. The Phantom's face, as you know, is covered with hideous make-up and a mask. He is both a murderer and a tragic figure. And, he does not get the girl. Will your fans be filling the theatres to see you in this type of role? The music is not easy to sing. It requires years of training to develop the range required for the part of Erik, to say nothing of being able to sustain the long notes. Even with digital enhancement, your voice would not have the eerie power, the rich tone, and the emotional quality to move the audience to tears when Christine leaves. And, of course, you are far too young for the role. Erik is a father figure, a mentor, and an operatic voice coach for Christine. Can you honestly see and hear yourself as the "Angel of Music"? The realistic gesture, as well as the gentlemanly thing for you to do, is to forget about the Phantom and stick to what you do best, romantic adventure and action. A little song here or there might be all right as in "Evita", but leave the Phantom to Michael Crawford. He has been a singer all his life and he just keeps getting better. It's far too late for you to catch up. |
| Name: Sean Lowery Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Florida- United States Time: 1998-08-12 21:12:51 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I have seen your best roles, ranging from Zorro to Che in Evita. I have also seen Michael Crawford. You, sir, are more than worthy of playing in many, many roles of your choice, but the Phantom is not for you. It is rumored on this page that it is a possibility that you will be taking this role in the movie Phantom of the Opera. I apologize, but I must be frank, Michael Crawford is better than you when it comes to this. It would be wise of you as a performer and as a star to decline this role. I appreciate you taking the time to read this. |
| Name: Mary
Wolkerstorfer Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Minneapolis, MN Time: 1998-08-12 21:08:48 Comments: To Antonio Banderas: Antonio, I hope that you will understand the massive campaign here to make sure that Michael Crawford is cast in the role of Phantom in the movie version of Phantom of the Opera. He IS the Phantom! He brings the character of Erik, the Phantom, to life. I do admire you and enjoy your acting ability but in this case, I think that there can only be ONE Phantom and that is Michael Crawford. All the best to you! |
| Name: Cheryl Bonlaron Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Los Angelos, CA Time: 1998-08-11 04:47:35 Comments: Mr. Banderas, You are an excellent actor, but the role of the Phantom will always belong to MICHAEL CRAWFORD. This is one role that can't be played by any other than the man who created it. Michael has NEVER been topped by ANY other actor in his role. If you or any other actor is cast as the Phantom in this movie, fans of musical theater WILL NOT buy, rent or see it. If you don't know already, MANY more people will boycott this movie that see it or spend money on it. I'm sorry, but this role is meant for Michael. |
| Name: J. Pherson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Los Angeles, CA Time: 1998-08-11 04:39:10 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I think you are a good actor & singer, however, I think you should decline the role of the Phantom due to the existence of a much more qualified actor, Michael Crawford. You are very talented indeed, but Crawford is known worldwide for this role, and has won numerous awards because of his excellent performance. He also has many more years of singing experience. He fits the role better, due to the fact that the Phantom is supposed to be an older man. The film really needs to star Crawford in order to be a work of art, not just another action film. Please consider declining the role. Thank you. J. Pherson |
| Name: Aravis Darcy Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Seattle, Wa Time: 1998-08-10 23:51:14 Comments: I hope that Mr. Banderas will do what many other actors have done in the past, and give up his role to someone who will do much better job with it than he would. I know that many people are counting on it. |
| Name: Jenni
Simpson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-08-10 04:35:29 Comments: Mr. Bandaras...with all due respect...I must add my voice to the hundreds of pleas already posted here. Please consider carefully before accepting the role created for Michael Crawford. There are many different sorts of talent. You are without question a master of your craft, but this particular part was simply meant for someone else. Mr. Crawford *owns* the role of the Phantom ::smiles:: Anyone else who tries to play it will be doing so in his magnificent shadow. You have a bright future in film...be smart. Walk away and find a role more in keeping with your abilities. Believe that I number now, as always, amongst your most avid supporters; but if you take on the role of The Phantom, it is one movie of yours I will have to regretfully decline to see. |
| Name: Yoon
Shin Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Time: 1998-08-10 03:37:35 Comments: Anotonio, you are one of my favorite actors but i can't imagine you being the Phantom. The only one who can be the Phantom is Michael Crawford because in part, he IS the Phantom. No offense but you nor anybody can be like him. If you put it this way, Michael is God of the music world and others are just his little creations. |
| Name: Jeanne Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: LA Time: 1998-08-09 20:53:19 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas:Just a thought....please think about your career. There are so many people asking that you not to accept the role of the Phantom. Michael Crawford is THE Phantom. So many people have PROMISED that they are going to boycott the movie if anyone but Michael play the part. Professionally, if you or anyone but Michael accept the part, the movie will bomb.Please think of your future and how this will HURT it. Think of how many fans will boycott YOUR future movies because they are upset at you for playing the Phantom. Please think about this, that you for listening. Jeanne |
| Name: Harper
Strom Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Albany, GA Time: 1998-08-08 04:14:56 Comments: Dear Mr Banderas, First let me first say what a fine actor you are. I have always enjoyed your films, and hope to for many years to come. As you know, there is quite a negative stir about you starring in the film of "Phantom". I believe that it should be known that this stir doesnt really have anything to do with you personally, but with the casting of you in the film. You see, and dont take this the wrong way, but you're just not "it" for this film. The Phantom must be played by someone older, more distinguished. The only person that should play him is, of course, Michael Crawford. Thats all there is to it. I hope you can understand that we dont want you to star in the film, not out of dislike for you, but for respect for the story and the music. Respectfully, and Best Wishes~~~~~ Harper |
| Name: rachel dalton Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: illinois Time: 1998-08-05 20:17:26 Comments: I beleive michael Crawford should reclaim his role as the phantom I think you (Mr Banderas) are a terriffic actor and your singing was nice for Che but this is different. I am tired of producers thinking they need big names to push these beautiful shows. i wouldnt want any other stage actor or hollywood actor but Mr Crawford for the role. with respect, Rachel |
| Name: E.L Website: The Phantom's Lair (still under construction) Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: NY Time: 1998-08-05 02:10:46 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, With all due respect, the role of the Phantom should go to someone more experienced with musical theater, or at least should have extensive background with singing (notice how I mentioned extensive!) You are a great actor and you were perfectly fit for the role in Evita as Che, but Phantom requires more... uh, how shall I say this... singing capability? What I am trying to point out is if you're gonna be in the upcoming movie, try Raoul's part or someone else's... Thanks, Eleanor (PS: Just because I said you weren't fit for the role doesn't mean your a bad actor!) |
| Name: Tasha
Lea Whited Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Pensacola, FL Time: 1998-08-04 01:15:47 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I have to admit that you were truly wonderful in Evita. I have not yet seen Zorro, but I am sure you are just as wonderful in it. However, you have to understand one thing. The Phantom is an old, pitiful man, and yet you are young and attractive. That is not to say that you aren't talented enough to take on this challenging role because you are, but ten years ago Mr. Michael Crawford was promised to play "his" stage role on the big screen. I beg of you, sir, if you have any kindness in your heart, please do not take Mr. Crawford's role from him! He is up there in age and the role of the Phantom is what he is known best for. You, on the other hand, will have many more opportunities to star in many films in the near future. I hope that you will reconsider. Listen to your heart,(not the producers)and remember that you have already played a leading masked character! I thank you sir for your time!!! |
| Name: dee
hickman Website: Referred by: Net Search From: san jose Time: 1998-08-01 08:10:19 Comments: Senor--this Erik is an older, dreadfully hurt and agonizing human being. You seem so young and vibrant and alive and happy. There is the actor in Michael C. He makes us believe that he is this tortured human being; we can still see the imp in you. I believe that as you gain experience, this will disappear, but truly, Mr. C. must play Erik because he has the life experience to make Erik believable. Great performers must know when to make the right choices; you are well on your way. The choice to play Erik, on your part, would at the least be a step sideways if not backward. No artist can afford such a mistake. Having paid his dues on stage as The Phantom, Mr. C. is entitled to accept or reject the role which he created. Please consider this as a talented artist, yourself. With respect. D. |
| Name: Lucy
Dickinson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: phoenix, Arizona Time: 1998-07-30 04:32:49 Comments: Mr Banderas, I too thought you were the best part of Evita. I also liked your rendition of Zorro. But please don't think that makes you qualified to portray Eric. As others have said,I feel that Eric was created so that some day Michael Crawford could play and sing this part. Please do not let yourself get talked into this role. I think since ALW is so set on making another Phantom movie, it should be a prequel and you could play the part of Eric before he was a singer and disfigured, while he was young. A lot of us have been waiting a good many years for Michael to make this movie please don't let us be disappointed. Thank you |
| Name: Raven
Ciolfi Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: las vegas via hawaii Time: 1998-07-27 18:33:29 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I just want you to know that I love you as an actor, and I just saw "Zorro" the other day and loved it. And personally, I think that you were the best thing in "Evita" and should have received an Oscar nod. However, for the role of the Phantom, there is only one person who can play the role the way is was meant to be played: Michael Crawford. No offense to you or anything, but that is the way that I feel. When a role is so very associated with a certain actor or singer, I think that person should be given the chance to be shown and acknowledged forever. That is what should happen for Michael Crawford, and more importantly, for the fans of the show, the people who this movie should be made for. That's all, thank you. Sincerely, Raven Ciolfi, age 14 |
| Name: Susan Website: Referred by: Net Search From: NJ Time: 1998-07-27 01:40:26 Comments: Mr. Banderas, As a teenage girl living in today's world, it is very hard to find a decent role model. Someone who I can admire and try to follow in their footsteps; someone I know cares about changing the world and making it better, someone who cares about LIFE, and living it to the fullest. But, I must be extremely lucky, for I have found him. I've found him through Michael Crawford. Michael is not only an inspiring singer, but also an amazing actor. He doesn't just pretend to play the part--he becomes the Phantom. I respect you and also admire your acheivements and work, and do not want to offend you in any way, but I will not and do not approve of anyone BUT Michael Crawford taking the part of Phantom in the movie. It would be a great embarressment to him if he does not recieve the role he has played over 1300 times, and the role he is known around the world for. I wuold refuse to purchase or support the movie in ANY way. Please, take the time to put yourself in his position....if you were the first person ever to play the Phantom, and had the chance to make it into a movie, wouldn't you want, with all your heart, to play the role one last time, to become that Phantom once again....please, Mr. Banderas, let Michael's star shine in the part he is known for.....the part that brings this Angel of Music to life...... Think it over....for his sake....and ours. Sincerely, a Phantom Fan, Susan |
| Name: rachel
munn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Kent, Ohio, USA Time: 1998-07-26 04:54:06 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Please do not take the part of the Phantom. You are a good actor, singer, and nice looking too, but that alone is not enough for this role. Millions of people (mostly women) can only envision Michael Crawford as the Phantom. His voice is unlike anyone else's in the world. I am not saying you are not up to the challenge, but please do not accept! It would devastate fans the world over who have been waiting years to see the movie produced with Mr. Crawford as its leading man. Thank you. |
| Name: Stef Website: Stef's Musicals Page Referred by: Word of Mouth From: PA, USA Time: 1998-07-26 00:30:04 Comments: I'm sorry, Mr. Banderas, but I cannot envision you in the Phantom of the Opera movie. Give the role to someone who created the role and idolized it-Michael Crawford. To many fans, including myself, he is the Phantom who can make the character come alive... Stef |
| Name: S.M.S Indrawan Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Indonesia Time: 1998-07-25 03:40:29 Comments: Mr. Banderas, regardless your truly beautiful voice, I believe that you are not good enough for the role of Phantom. |
| Name: Jessica Website: A Freshman's Tribute Referred by: Word of Mouth From: illinois Time: 1998-07-24 21:45:17 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I also saw you in Evita.You were great, but your not right for the part of the Phantom. Michael appeals to me much more.(no offense) I know you respect music. If you truly understand and respect music, you'll appreciate the fact that Michael brought the Phantom to life. No one could ever do what he has done. I think you have a great voice, but it just won't be the Phantom without Michael. |
| Name: Stephen
Korbett Website: Referred by: Advertisment/Brochure From: Pittsburgh, PA Time: 1998-07-23 00:08:46 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I've seen you in Evita. You were good. Very good, actually. You made that movie. But think about it. I respect you as an actor and a singer, but you are not for the Phantom. Any director should know that. The voice of Erik is not a Banderas or Travolta voice. I just watched Crawford perform here in Pittsburgh last night. His voice is what Erik is all about. Eerie, haunting, yet...beautiful...Michael FEELS the character. He knows who he is. When he sings songs from Phantom, he IS the Phantom. I'm sorry, but I do not think that the role of the Phantom is for anyone like you or John(Travolta)...Michael Crawford's voice and essence will always be the true Phantom. Warner Brothers is making a mistake by casting you or anyone else they have had in mind, and why? Everyone knows who you are, and all the girls want to have your children. One of the greatest money makers of all time, Star Wars, was casted so low budget that the most known main cast member was Harrison Ford, who, in 1977, was hardly even known. Hollywood needs to let the main public know who Crawford is. We know who you are. Let him shine at what he should be doing. |
| Name: Bruna Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Brazil Time: 1998-07-22 02:08:17 Comments: Please Mr. Banderas don't take any offense… We all know Michael Crawford is the only one who can just BE the phantom… I know you're doing you're best to get this role But think better… if you get this role will be because you're a star and you have a million women wanting you that will see the movie it's not the movie it's not the role it's you. I'm asking you as a little girl who loves the phantom and knows inside of her that no guy can play this as Michael… I think you like the play at least a little so if you respect a little it: give up! My worse feeling is that I couldn't watch him as the phantom nor the Sarah angel Brightman but I know they're the best I feel it hearing listening they sing If you notice it's not an equal competition yeah MC has a lot of fans but you have more and more people will watch the movie just because of YOU It'll hurt the original play and make a joke of it!!! A lot of girls will be there to slobber at you not to see this beatiful so beautiful story! Listen… The angel sees the angel knows… GIVE UP ¡¡¡¡¡POR FAVOR!!!! |
| Name: Cynthia
Grissinger Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-07-21 22:53:55 Comments: Dear Antonio, I have just seen Michael Crawford's DC concert. After seeing him perform Phantom of the Opera and Music of the Night, I know there is no one else who could ever play the part or sing those songs. He held the audience spellbound. You could not even hear anyone breathe. It was the most amazing performance (and without mask, makeup or special effects)! I have seen Phantom on stage, but never have I been affected by a performance as I have Michael's. Please, please leave the role to the man who was born to play it! He truly is the "Phantom of the Opera"! |
| Name: Siobhán Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: California Time: 1998-07-21 05:46:14 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I only recently discovered who was "up" for the role of the Phantom. One would assume Michael Crawford would automaticly get the part. Obviously, this is not so. There are few "movie" actors that can sing (knowingly)Banderas (you), Travolta, Kilmer to name a few. Any sining actor would be good for the part but that is not what people are looking for. They are looking for singers who can act not actors who can sing. Also, Phantom "goers" expect to see Michael Crawford and no one else as The Phantom of the Opera. |
| Name: KMS Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Midland, Texas Time: 1998-07-21 05:44:25 Comments: Senior Banderas, You were great in Evita, not to mention all your other roles. I can't wait to see Zorro! However, as many others, I feel you are not right for the Phantom. Please, I beg you, let Michael Crawford play the role he was born to play. If you are determined to be in this film, I feel you are better suited for the Viscount, Raoul. I would hate to see your sex appeal covered up by a mask and horrid makeup. I also believe too many Phantom fans would boycott the film and that it would flop. That would get you, and Warner Bros., nowhere. Please, reconsider. You are a fine actor, but it has always been my dream to see Michael Crawford in his actual Phantom performance, instead of just listening to a CD. I do not have the means to see him in person. Please make my dream come true. Thank you. And keep working. The women in this country can't get enough of you! Sincerely, KMS |
| Name: Carol Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Mesa, Arizona Time: 1998-07-20 22:20:40 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I enjoy your work and have only the best wishes for your continued success. I feel it would be extreme folly for you to attempt to play the phantom for Warner Brothers - you would incur the anger of your many fans who believe that this role belongs to one person, Michael Crawford. The passion and artistry he brought to this character enabled millions of people to feel the agony experienced by the phantom. Anyone else in this role would be a pale copy of the original. Please have the grace to give this man his due and refuse this role. |
| Name: Sheri Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: NJ Time: 1998-07-20 15:53:32 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Please do not take offense, but after seing Michael Crawford perform songs from The Phantom of the Opera last night, I must say that he is the only man who can play the part. I understand that it is important to you as well, but think of the fans. Think of the movie. Please do not take the part. Sincerely, Sheri |
| Name: Valleri Callahan Website: Referred by: Advertisment/Brochure From: Maryland Time: 1998-07-20 03:47:09 Comments: Sr. Banderas, I'd like to start by saying that I think you are a wonderful actor. You were the perfect Che Guevara for the Evita movie (I have the video and the soundtrack). However, there is but one Phantom of the Opera, and that is Michael Crawford. No one has as powerful a voice, or a better feel for the role. Having seen him in concert, I know that Michael Crawford will never die, so long as he is remembered as the Phantom. The actors that people remember are those in the movies. Please don't misunderstand me, I have seen The Mask of Zorro twice, and it has only been out for three days. With all due respect, please be content with the mask of the fox (which you wore so well!), and leave the mask of the Phantom to Michael Crawford. I hope that you have not taken offense at any of these comments. |
| Name: Joanne Curry Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Gainesville, FL, USA Time: 1998-07-20 02:55:36 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, First I want to say that I saw you as Che in Evita, and that you were very, very good. However, I do not think that that makes you prepared to play the role of the Phantom, a role much more demanding both vocally and emotionally than the role in Evita. In my mind, there is only one man who should play the role on screen---Michael Crawford. Mr. Crawford originated the role in London, Broadway, and Los Angeles, playing in over 1300 performances, and making the Phantom what it is today: the most successful musical in history. So, I am asking you, please, to take a cue from Cary Grant and decline the offer in favor of the man who made the role. Please. Your voice is wonderful, but it does not have the capabilities needed to play a part with such a large range. Mr. Crawford has been singing all his life and has aquired an amazing range, and acting ability. Perhaps this all seems silly to you, but it's very important to us. To see our idol snubbed from the role that sp rightfully belongs to him just because he is not a "big Hollywood name" is horrible for us. I'm sure you are a very wonderful man, and I'm sure you can understand this. I only hope that all of this does not make you want to play the role even more, just to show that you can. Please, please, and please again, don't let this happen. Thank you, Joanne Curry |
| Name: Lori Herter Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Southern California Time: 1998-07-19 23:52:42 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I have enjoyed your performances in past movie roles and am looking forward to seeing you as Zorro. I imagine that you'll be perfect in that role. However, I do not wish to see you attempt to play the role of the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera. As others have pointed out, you would have to spend years preparing yourself to understand the character and develop your voice before you could ever hope to fill Michael Crawford's shoes. Mr. Crawford created the Phantom and he ought to be the one to play the role in the movie, just as Rex Harrison and Yul Brynner were able to record their most famous stage roles for posterity. When Cary Grant was asked to play Henry Higgins in the movie of My Fair Lady, Mr. Grant declined the role, saying the character belonged to Rex Harrison. I am respectfully asking you to do the same---decline the Phantom role in favor of the man who so magnificently defined the role on stage and made it his own. You would be greatly admired for your generosity and looked upon as a true gentleman. You are young and will have many wonderful roles to play in future movies. Please let Michael Crawford play the role he was born to play in the movie version of Phantom of the Opera. |
| Name: Allie Website: Oddeyes's Home Page Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: TX Time: 1998-07-18 23:50:14 Comments: Dear Sir, Playing the role of the Phantom of the Opera is not something that can be learned overnight or that can be done for a few hours at a time. To "play" Erik, one must truly "be" Erik. It is not like other acting roles. People read the novel, and fall in love with him; they see the musical and feel for him. But to see a movie without the perfect person in the role would be cruel and disgusting. So, I ask you to please not consider the role. You are an honorable man, but, alas, the part does not suit you. An actor must make his audience believe that he is a certain character, but the actor for this role must truly connect with the character and become him. Thank you for reading this; I have not meant any disrespect by writing |
| Name: Carol Vincent Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: San Marcos, Texas Time: 1998-07-18 17:00:45 Comments: Hello Mr. Banderas. I just wanted to say that although you were a good Che in the Evita movie, that role is not at all demanding vocally or acting wise, as the Phantom is. I don't mean to sound rude, but you are not a singer, nor do you have the passion, emotion, pain, talent etc. to pull off such a difficult role as the role of Erik. I do not say this to belittle your talents, but some of us are not born with the acting talent and the voice to be able to pull off such a role. That is not the norm for God to have blessed anyone with that great of talent when you look at all the people in the industry. I ask you to give up your quest for this role, as we all know you will not be able to do justice to it, through no fault of your own. Stage actors and a few screen actors have received the gift to bring those roles to life, but you were not one who received that gift. Leave the role to someone who was. |
| Name: Diane
Jackson Schnoor Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Crozet, Virginia Time: 1998-07-16 23:10:02 Comments: Dear Antonio, Although I enjoyed your performance in Evita, I feel obliged to ask you to give up your quest to play the Phantom. You are a very talented performer, but why risk the wrath of millions of Phantom fans by taking on a role that should rightfully be played by its creator -- Michael Crawford? For many of us, myself included, Michael is the epitomy of the Phantom. His performance cannot be imitated, nor can anyone hope to equal his passion and understanding of the role. Thank you for your attention. Diane |
| Name: Melanie Chevrefils Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Timmins, ON Canada Time: 1998-07-15 16:43:52 Comments: Dearest Antonio, although I'm totally in love with you, and feel that you are such a great actor, I feel that The Phantom is indeed Michael Crawford. It is his trademark, that is how everyone knows him. Don't worry sweetie, being known as a Mambo King and/or Zorro isn't such a bad deal! |
| Name: Kristen Boyer Website: Kristen's Home on the Web Referred by: Net Search From: Harrisonburg, VA, USA Time: 1998-07-14 21:18:25 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Hi. After reading all the letters to you so far, I honestly can say that I agree with most of the persons involved in this petition to you. I DO think you could pull off the role of the Phantom, but with certain conditions... 1. You need to study Erik, the music, the story, etc. to really understand the role you would play; 2. You need to study music/voice intensely for a long time, in order for you sing the music; and 3. You would need to be able to show - not try to woo - the millions of Michal Crawford and POTO phans that you want to see this movie. To be quite blunt, you would need a lot of training, time, and more time to really soak up who Erik really is and what Erick represents to so many people. I wish you luck in your endeavors. I don't think I will go see the Phantom movie for which you are preparing, but I am going to see THE MASK OF ZORRO. I can't wait. By the way, I thought you were brilliant in DESPERADO. Sincerely, Kristen Boyer |
| Name: Kevin Schwab Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: New York City Time: 1998-07-14 04:35:50 Comments: Dear Mr.Banderas.... after seeing you in Evita, I rushed out and immediately bought the movie soundtrack. Your voice and Madonna's tone made a beautiful connection to my soul in the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber. It was amazingly performed and wonderful to watch... The Phantom Of The Opera is my favorite Broadway show and with all respect intended (which is a lot)- no one can hold a candle to Mr.Michael Crawford. he created the role and he is the reason it has become successful and won many awards. I do not believe you are th eonly one involved- I am sure that there are many agents and contracters working on this as well but I ask you as a fan and as an admirer of your work to note the extraordinary talent in Mr.Crawford. Even you can see that he is the perfect Phantom... you performed in Evita and I believe the shot should be given to Crawford for this movie. Thank you for your attention. |
| Name: Anna Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Redding, CA Time: 1998-07-14 01:16:41 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I admire your work greatly. You have proved to be a wonderfully talented actor and singer, and I know that you must be proud of what you have done. You have brought many roles to life, and made many movies shine. So when it comes to the question of whether you should accept the role of Eric, the Phantom, in the Phantom of the Opera, I really beleive that you would do a fine job, and make an awesome phantom. But I also insist that you don't accept the offering, not because you would play the part poorly, but because there is another man who would play it greater, and who in my heart, the role belongs to. This man is Michael Crawford. He has truly defied and created and perfected the role of Eric. And he has also had much experience in the role, of which you have not (no offense intended.) Like many other people, I have fallen in love with his voice, and (as I listen to my OLC cd nightly) his rich passionate portayal of the Phantom. His voice alone brings the role to life, making shivers go through my spine as he sings the line "I gave you my music, made your song take wing... and now how you've repaid me, denied me and betrayed me...." His presence alone is enough to bring me to tears, and as my lifelong dream is to either sing with him or atleast see him singing 'the Phantom', I would be ecstatic if he was awarded the lead role. Raoul would be a great role for you, if Michael was the Phantom. There is no doubt in my mind that you could provide the charm and voice needed for Raoul especially for the song "All I ask of You," and then, as you gained your fame for doing such a wonderful thing as stepping down fom a role for another man, I could finally see Michael's performance, not just dream about it. So please, Mr. Banderas, don't accept the Phantom, and leave it for Michael's larger-than-life-presence to handle it. That's all I ask of you. Sincerely, Anna |
| Name: Stephanie
Vincent Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Virginia Time: 1998-07-13 22:47:17 Comments: Dear Mr.Banderas, I must say that if you choose to accept the role of Erik, you would be making a terrible mistake. You are extremely talented as an actor, director and singer. I have loved you in every role that I have seen you play. In fact, I'm practically holding my breath waiting to see you in Zorro! (So I am VERY lucky that it is coming out Friday, or I might die from holding my breath too long. ;) ) You once told Rosie that Mr. Anthony Hopkins just told you to look in the mirror when you were preparing to play the role of Zorro. Well, Michael Crawford simply has to look in the mirror to prepare for the role of the Phantom. He was born to play that role. I'm sorry to say, but you were not. Please, sir, I'm not saying that you would do a bad job at playing the Phantom. In fact, you could very easily do a good job! But NO ONE could EVER do a better job than Michael Crawford, the orginial Phantom of the Opera! |
| Name: Kate Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: MN Time: 1998-07-13 21:08:06 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I am 16 years old and have recently fallen in love with Michael Crawford for both his talents and compassion. I discovered this man much to late in my life and his career and have begun to realize how much I've missed. But the one thing that I regret missing the most is his signature role as the mysteriously suave and dark phantom, Erik. Don't get me wrong, I love your talents as well...we all know that you have so many, but just as you were born to play Che, Michael was put on this earth to bring us Erik. I recently read Gaston Leroux's "Phantom of the Opera" and found a particular passage which brought me to tears, "No one ever sees the Angel; but he is heard by those who are meant to hear him. He often comes when they least expect him, when they feel sad and discouraged. Then their ears suddenly perceive celestial harmonies, a divine voice, which they remember all their lives long. Persons who are visited by the Angel quiver with a thrill unknown to the rest of mankind |
| Name: Alicia McReynolds Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Houston, Texas Time: 1998-07-13 10:18:12 Comments: Mr. Banderas I'm sorry, but you would not be a great Phantom.You are a good actor and a moderately good singer, but not good enough to play Erik. I know you have played roles that were vaguely similar in attitude(Armand from Interview with a Vampire for instance), but you don't have enough power to control such a character. You would have to be the BEST and practice and study for a LONG time to play the role well.When I say the best I mean the best singer, the best actor, and the best all around performer. You would also have to study Erik himself and come to understand him completely , as does Michel Crawford. He KNOWS Erik. HE has proven time and time again that no one plays the Phantom better. Let Micheal Crawford play Erik. I suggest before you try playing Erik on screen, play him on stage. Maybe then you will be worthy to try to capture the spirit of Erik for posterity. Sincerely, Alicia Renee McReynolds |
| Name: Deb Peterson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-07-13 01:36:59 Comments: Dear Mr. Bandaras, After reading your latest thoughts on the Phantom movie, I felt compelled to write again. I am sorry, but you won't be able to "woo" away Michael Crawford's fans because many won't even see the movie if you are cast as the Phantom. I have already seen the best so I won't see the rest!! |
| Name: Joanne Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: New Jersey, USA Time: 1998-07-12 15:07:05 Comments: Mr. Banderas, Just as there is no one else but you who can play Zorro in 1998, there is no one else who should play the Phantom but Michael Crawford. Please do not take this as an affront to your acting or singing abilities, you were great in Evita. It's just that Michael Crawford is the Phantom. Please do not take the role!!! Looking forward to seeing you as Zorro and Michael as the Phantom. Sincerely, Joanne |
| Name: David Levian Website: SickDawgs Philosophy & Poetry Page Referred by: Advertisment/Brochure From: Rockford, IL Time: 1998-07-12 14:58:25 Comments: Antonio, I love your movies. Although I do, I emplore you to not accept the role of The Phantom. It's rightful place is in the hands of Michael Crawford. I think you are a fine actor, but I don't believe anyone can live up to what Michael has done with this role and if anyone but him is cast I know several people who will boycott this picture as well as myself. |
| Name: Marga
Alvarez Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: Basque Country (Spain) Time: 1998-07-12 11:29:30 Comments: Querido Antonio: Ya veo que soy la primera que te escribe en castellano, pero creo que aunque sea tu representante, agente, secretario o quien quiera que sea quien lo lea, me gustaría que de alguna forma llegase hasta tí, por eso te escribo en nuestro idioma común. Te admino profundamente, siempre me ha parecido de un gran mérito la forma en que te has abierto camino en la gran jungla "hollywoodiense", tus interpretaciones me han gustado aún antes de convertirte en un "chico Almodovar" y siempre me has parecido un buen actor, he seguido tu carrera en EE.UU. y aunque me ha parecido que siempre "vendías" o te hacian vender "latino" en oposición a "español-europeo-ciudadano del mundo", que son los "roles" en los que ve gustaría verte actuar, respeto la forma en la que tú decidas cómo llevar tu carrera. Dejando claro que eren un muy buen actor, pasemos a lo siguiente, lo que es claro que no eres es un muy buen cantante, cantas monamente, y en el papel del "Che" lo has demostrado, también Patxi Andión, cantó en España al protagonizar este personaje, y no es lo que se dice un cantante melódico precisamente. El "Che" no requiere grandes registros y realmente en más bien el tema de un rapsoda. Pero querido... El Fantasma de la Opera es otra cosa. El Fantasma es algo mas... Es el amor imposible, el dolor, la desesperación, la venganza, el odio, la burla... Pero sobre todo la voz que enamora. Una voz que puede arrastar a al cielo al escucharla, lo demás no se comprendería que Christine pudiese enamorarse de esa voz, Christine o cualquier mujer... No sé las veces que he escuchado al Fantasma... No sé las veces que he escuchado a Michael Crawford... También he escuchado a la Caballé cantando el tema de "Wishing you were somehow here again" y a Carreras, a Domingo y a Pavarotti cantando uno de los temas de Cats. Amo la música, y tú querido Antonio me has demostrado ser un gran actor, pero no un gran cantante, porque ya te he oido cantar, tanto en tus películas españolas, algunas, como en "Evita" "Desperado" etc.. y desde luego tu actuación como cantante no es lo que se dice memorable, te repito cantas monamente, pero no te puedes comparar con no ya los Tres Tenores, sino simplemente con el Sr. Crawford. El SI canta bien. Comprendo el pales del Fantasma, sería un empujón para tu carrera de actor. Pero desgraciadamente no sería para tu "carrera de cantante" y mucho menos para el pobre Fantasma, con tu voz, aparecería un poco "bajo de tono", por decirlo suavemente. Tú dedícate a actuar, y deja el canto para los cantantes de verdad, Michael Crawford lo ha hecho de forma casi insuperable. Y tú sabes que segundas partes nunca fueron buenas y aunque tu hayas hecho varias te recuerdo que Desperado no fue ni con mucho tan buena como El Mariachi aunque el presupuesto fuese mucho mayor. No sé hasta que punto te lo han ofrecido, no sé hasta que punto lo has buscado, la versión que llegó hasta aquí fue que cantaste en el cumpleaños de Andrew Lloyd Webber, lo que desgraciadamente me recordó a Marilyn Monroe cantándole "Cumpleaños Feliz" a J.F.K. Con esto termino. Recibe mis más sinceras felicitaciones por tu trayectoria, Recibe mis más sinceras felitaciones por tu forma de abrirte camino como actor. Marga Alvarez |
| Name: Betty Fisher Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Maryland Time: 1998-07-12 03:04:56 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: I've just spent a half-hour or so reading all of the letters to you. I hope you have read them, too. I think they've already said everything I would have said, so I won't take up your time trying to find another way to say the same thing. I'll simply add my voice to theirs: Please do not accept this role. The Phantom is Michael Crawford, and vice-versa. Thank you for your time. ---Betty |
| Name: Mike Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Missouri Time: 1998-07-12 01:32:30 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, You are a wonderful singer and actor. I loved you in Evita and enjoy all of your movies. But the simple fact is that Michael Crawford MADE the role of the Phantom. You should suggest to Warner Bros that Michael Crawford is the only logical choice for the role, as he is. I can tell you thousands upon thousands of people will love you more if you give up the role to Mr. Crawford. Your Servant, ~Mike~ |
| Name: Thalia Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Dallas Time: 1998-07-11 10:52:52 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, If your agent/management has had the nerve to actually forward you these messages, if you've actually read them-- you can't be feeling too good. It's not easy to be urged to give up a plum (and lucrative) role; it's even harder to be told by sincere people that they think you lack a necessary ability to perform that role well. Please don't take it too hard--you are a very talented actor and there are plenty of wonderful roles out there in your future. Please remember that these people know Phantom well and love it well. And they know Michael well and love him well. They know that the film role was his, by promise and/or contract, till the Hollywood system prevailed and Warners decided not to risk their project on a stage star. They also know Michael wants the role but is too much of a gentleman to out-and-out say so. These people have made the logical arguments. I'd like to talk to you about the *illogical* ones: 1. Let's start with LOVE. I gather you badly want to play the Phantom and have wanted to for a long time. I think that most sensitive people want to express what he expressed, that most music-lovers would like to sing the songs he sings. This is a form of love. But we all know that people often feel romantic love for someone who would prove to be a disastrous lover or spouse. If they're sensible (which they almost never are) they'll recognize it and step aside before their pursuit creates havoc in several lives. You love the Phantom but I feel you are wrong for him and your many talents and abilities don't match the Phantom's needs. It would be tragic if this marriage ends in disaster. 2. Then there is MAGIC. The Phantom is magical--several actors have shown this, though none to the extent Michael has. You're probably not aware that over the years several people have credited Michael with healing their medical and psychological problems. He doesn't understand it; neither do I. But I have read a number of testimonials to that effect. He brought out something inside the Phantom that calms nerves, soothes hearts, and mends bodies. He inspires a generosity and openness that takes my breath away at times. In other words, his magic has in a small way made the world a better place. One reason I've always wanted to see his Phantom on film is that is the only way millions of people around the world could be given a touch of his healing power. Would you get in the way of that? 3. SOUL. I am a student of Spain (by chance I'm listening to a medieval Spanish song called "Adio, querida" even as I write). I believe the Spanish are the most *soulful* people on earth, so I feel you'll understand what follows. I've read your plan for mastering the role--in mundane vocational terms, it is a good plan. But as many fans know, the Phantom has a soul. And as one critic wrote, the Phantom chose Michael Crawford. Over the years Michael has become the servant and preserver of the Phantom's soul. By now, they are soulmates. The all-knowing camera would reveal this, just as it would reveal your own struggle with every word and sound the character utters. You love the Phantom--don't do him or the moviegoing public the disservice of presenting an interpretation of the Phantom. Be magnanimous--step aside for Michael and let the Phantom speak for himself...........................................Adios, querido--Thalia |
| Name: Ann Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-07-11 05:23:59 Comments: Antonio: I truly hope that these messages reach you because you need to hear what "Phantom" fans are saying. In my entire life I have never known a movie to be more anticipated than this one. Perhaps only "Gone With The Wind" had as many fans waiting for the movie version, but that was before my time. "Phantom" fans are a curious breed. They have had 12 years to anticipate what a movie of this show would be like. Because of the millions of cast albums that have been sold, they know exactly what the main character should sound like, and his voice belongs to Michael Crawford. They know every bit of phrasing and how he enunciates each word. Those lucky enough to have seen Michael Crawford perform the role on stage know how the Phantom moves and how expressive his body is, especially his hands. My point is that these fans know exactly what they want to see on the movie screen, and their expectations are VERY high. You will have to be absolutely perfect in the part. You will have to equal Michael Crawford's standard or you will expose yourself to popular and critical ridicule. If you value the increasingly successful career you are building, don't risk it by taking this role. You are a moderately good singer, but you are not trained or experienced enough as a singer to carry such a demanding role. Leave it to the man who is so closely identified with it, who created it, and who will meet the expectations of "Phantom's" millions of fans...MICHAEL CRAWFORD. |
| Name: Michael
Martin Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Charlotte, Michigan Time: 1998-07-10 06:33:37 Comments: Mister Banderas, I understand that you really feel you must play this role. I, myself, would also die to play the Erik in a Phantom movie. And yet, when you think about it, Mr. Banderas, who really should play the part? The man that created it, the man that gave Erik a life of passion and sorrow, not mockery and horror? Yes, I believe so. I am sorry, but you must admit that it takes a tremendously powerful, and hauntingly beautiful, voice to portray this tortured man. Niether of us have it, I must say. And yet Mr. Banderas, if you end up defeating the fate, and you do play the Phantom, I beg you to consider Michael Crawford as a teacher, a model for you to develop the character of The Phantom from. He IS Erik, and if he taught you, and showed you, you'd feel it from him, too. And so, with all of the contorversy and want for Mr. Crawford to play this man, I do wish you luck. Although, it's obvious where my vote goes.... |
| Name: Jennifer Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Time: 1998-07-10 01:29:56 Comments: Mr. Banderas, You are great actor. But, Michael Crawford will always be remembered and known as the Phantom of the Opera. So it is him alone that should be casted in the movie. The part belongs to him as though it was written just for him. So, please, let Michael Crawford continue on in the part that he is known for. |
| Name: NOEL
B. QUIAMBAO Website: NO HOMEPAGE YET Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: PHILIPPINES Time: 1998-07-09 07:50:19 Comments: July 9, 1998 I deeply respect Mr. Antonio Banderras as an actor. I have seen his performance in the movie version of EVITA. He gave justice to his role. He is also a very good singer and performer. But I do believe that there are some roles which are meant for those who have done it and superbly done marvelous results. With due respect to Mr. Banderras, I do know that when the word Phantom is mention, the name of Michael Crawford would automatically pop into your mind. The PHANTOM is MICHAEL and MICHAEL CRAWFORD is the PHANTOM! I hope the message is clear!!! Thank you, NOEL |
| Name: Dianne Montgomery Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Carlisle, England Time: 1998-07-09 04:15:57 Comments: Mr. Banderas, I am asking you this as a fan of yours and as a loyal fan of Michael Crawford's. I am very much looking forward to seeing you in "The Mask of Zorro" soon. But please, Mr. Banderas, I am absolutely PLEADING with you not to play the role of the Phantom. A boycott of Warner Bros. and of the movie is being planned if Michael Crawford does not play the part. Think of the MILLIONS of MC fans that will be disapointed and the money that could be lost. The fate of the movie is in your hands, Mr. Banderas. Please make the right choice. Dianne Montgomery |
| Name: Ken Garcia Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Texas Time: 1998-07-08 18:17:22 Comments: Antonio, I hope that all this fuss does not greatly offend you; its certainly not intended to. This is just a small, but vocal, segment of Phantom fans all over the world who want to know, to make sure that the right thing is done. The Phantom Of The Opera is not just another stage show; another stage to screen adaptation. It is something much more, something special. If you've never lied back with your eyes shut and just listened to the original cast recording - do it. You will soon realize that Michael Crawford's Erik is brilliant; it literally moves you to tears. It would be a great injustice for him not to portray Erik on screen. This is not a commentary on your ability as I am a great fan of your movies, and have most of them on tape. It is just that I believe deeply that Michael has come to embody the very essence of The Phantom and that no one could give the role the service that it truly deserves as well as Michael. I sincerely hope that you consider the uniquiness of The Phantom Of The Opera among Broadway shows when choosing whether or not to undertake this role. As others have said, Raoul would be an excellent role, but the success of the show turns on the expressiveness of Erik. And I truly hope you would agree that Michael is Erik. |
| Name: Ariel Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-07-07 21:04:16 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I can't say that I'm a raving fan of yours. I only saw Evita but I was pleasently suprised. The role suited you perfectly, and in my humble opinion you were the best thing about it. Still, I can't but help to observe that Che and Erik are very different individuals. Where you have shone like the brilliant star you are in one, you could easily fail in the other. Your voice and Mr. Crawford's are strikingly different, and I will not say that one is better than the other because both are beautiful in their own ways. The best way I can put it is like this. If you were going to cut down a tree you wouldn't use a butter knife, would you? And if you wanted to spread butter on a piece of bread you wouldn't use an axe. The butter knife is not better than the axe or visa versa. They each have their uses. It would be wise and amirable to decline the role of the Phantom for this reason. There are also added bonuses If you decline, you are instantly loved by all of us crazy Crawford fans. If you accept, even if you preform brilliantly, you will be disliked by millions of theatergoers who will reconize the injustice of the casting. If you accept, and preform a hair less than brilliantly you will be cursed world over, and become the single reason (whether you are or not) the Phantom of the Opera Video is lining the walls of Dollar Stores everywhere. *PLEASE* don't do this to yourself!!! Love, Ariel PS: Who would want your lovely face hidden by a mask and all of that make-up anyway?!? |
| Name: Margaret
Canatella Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Santa Fe, N.M. Time: 1998-07-07 20:47:58 Comments: Dear Mr. Bandera: I have just finished reeading all the E-mails to you re the role of Phantom. I waited many years to see Phantom and came away disappointed, wondering why everyone adored it. Then I heard Michael Crawford sing numbers from it in concert. He had me in tears with the beauty of his singing and acting even in concert. I am 77 yrs. old and will probably not get to see the movie at the rate they are going; but want to add that I waited for years to see certain stars on stage.....one Richard Burton in Camelot. I did not go to see the movie because he wasn't in it. Please do as Cary Grant did and REFUSE the role and add your voice to say that only Michael Crawford should do the role. I agree with all the other mail that I read that you would be great in the role of Raoul. |
| Name: Laura Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Colorado Time: 1998-07-07 18:25:30 Comments: Dear Antonio Banderas, don't get us wrong. You proved to me that you have a good voice by your work in Evita. It's just that Michael Crawford knows the part very well. He was the very first, and he should have the pleasure to star in this movie. To quote his own words, "Playing the Phantom really changed my life. I loved playing him, and I always will." I would say that you should play the part of Raoul. You would be perfect for that part. |
| Name: Claudia
Hemsi Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Brazil Time: 1998-07-07 01:08:52 Comments: Dear Antonio Banderas, We all know you are an excellent actor, we are not questioning that. But Erik, the Phantom BELONGS to Michael Crawford and he deserves to portray him as he marvellously did on stage. Please, por favor, let him play the part. Thank you, Claudia. |
| Name: Andrew
Yarrows Website: The Broadway in Blue Cafe Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Massachusetts, USA Time: 1998-07-06 22:45:47 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, While I think you are a fine actor and you have chosen a wonderful variety of roles in the past, I do not feel that you will be doing yourself, or the fans of this musical, a service by accepting the role of the Phantom. You are vocally not right for it, and selecting anyone other than Michael Crawford for this role is a slap in the face for a man whose career was made legendary by his performance as the Phantom. Michael created this role and deserves to capture it forever on film. Please consider this before you accept the role. Thank you. |
| Name: Bethany
Cap Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Time: 1998-07-06 04:13:24 Comments: Please don't take this role. No offense, but you are not right for it. You have not even sung the part in the theatre, grown with it in the way that an actor who has played the role has. You cannot possibly know this character to the depths that the other stage actors know him. Also, the character is suposed to be about 50. You are not. The character should have a grace associated with it. I'm sorry to say but you do not have this grace. Please leave phantom alone, you'll hurt your career more than help it. And you'll also lose a lot of fans. |
| Name: c-girl Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: England Time: 1998-07-05 18:56:47 Comments: I know so many people are going to be rude to you, but I don't beleive that is the way to handle this. I've been a fan of yours since I saw you in Interview with a Vampire. Everyone was crazy over Brad Pitt and Tom. Well, I just thought you were the most intreaging of them all. I suported you with Evita. I was not keen on the idea of Maddona playing that role but I stayed supportive, but this is one thing I have to ask you not to do. Phantom belongs to Michael Crawford. I will always support you in anything except(if you accept) Phantom. |
| Name: Matthew Website: Casselberry, FL Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-07-02 04:05:09 Comments: Mr. Antonio Banderas I think it is remarkable that you have been able to break away from being typecasted. After making movies like Desperado you moved on to playing a vampire and then Che in Evita. I was impressed with your singing in the movie however, the songs that you were required to sing were not operatic. Every song in Phantom of the Opera IS operatic which makes every leading character a challenging part. The Phantom is the most demanding role and requires someone with years of training even if a singer has a natural gift for singing; because, no one can be an opera singer without going through lots of training. In most cases people who have a natural gift for singing still would have to practice for many years to play any of the leads in The Phantom of the Opera. Michael Crawford was from what I have heard the original choice at one time when Andrew Lloyd Webber had first thought about it one day being made into a movie. Michael Crawford has such beautiful voice that is distinct from many singers. In the book Erik's voice was so beautiful and different she believed that he was the angel of music sent by her father from heaven. Michael Crawford is so convincing as The Phantom that if Erik did sing like him Christine would have I sure believed he was the angel of music. If you haven't seen him live as The Phantom see The Andrew Lloyd Webber Premeire video and you will know why he is the right one for the part. Please respectively decline from the role. |
| Name: Cheryl
Harsin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Mississippi Time: 1998-07-02 00:10:23 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: I have never written a letter to an actor before and I hardly know where to begin now. Most of what I wanted to say to you has already been said in one way or another by others who have written to you on this site. However, this issue is so close to my heart that I simply could not let this opportunity pass without telling you how I feel about it. I have been captivated by the character of the Phantom of the Opera since reading Gaston Leroux's novel while in high school -- years before Andrew Lloyd-Webber composed his musical and long before I had ever heard of Michael Crawford. The tragic figure of the tormented Erik has always held a special fascination for me, and I can't begin to tell you what it meant to me when I first heard Michael Crawford sing Andrew Lloyd-Webber's beautiful music. Even though I have never had the chance to see Mr. Crawford perform the role of the Phantom, he brought him to life for me through his wonderful voice. I had always hoped that someday I would be able to see Mr. Crawford perform this role, so, of course, when I heard that a movie was being planned, I assumed that he would be given the part and I was thrilled. After all, who could possibly perform this role better than the man who first breathed life into him? Very soon afterwards, I was devastated to hear that Mr. Crawford was not even being considered for this role. It was being reported that it was almost a certainty that the role would be given to you. Mr. Banderas, I hope that you will take this letter in the spirit in which is is written. I certainly harbor no ill-will toward you. As a matter of fact, I have enjoyed your performances in every one of your movies that I have seen. You are a talented actor and I believe you have a great career ahead of you. However, for several reasons, I believe you should not accept this role, if it is offered to you. First of all, I don't believe that you have the vocal training necessary to perform this role. The story is called "The Phantom of the Opera" for one reason. It is HIS story. It is the story of a tragic soul, trapped in a disfigured body, who has never known the loving touch of a human hand. And, throughout much of the first part of the story, when we are first being introduced to the Phantom, it is only his voice that we hear, and that voice must be able to elicit our sympathy and devotion. Michael Crawford IS that voice, and one only has to hear him sing "Music of the Night" to realize that. I have heard that even though Mr. Crawford has been singing and taking voice lessons since he was a young boy, he still found it necessary to train for more than a year just to perform that one signature song. How can you possibly hope to prepare yourself to sing this very difficult music in such a short time? Please do not think that I am criticizing your voice. I saw "Evita" and I was pleasantly surprised at how well you sang, but that was a totally different kind of music. If you sing THIS music, you will constantly be compared to Michael Crawford, and there are very few singers alive today whose voices can compare to his. The second reason is that you are simply too young. The Phantom was a man well past middle age. He had lived long enough with the pain of his disfigurement to become mentally and emotionally unstable. He had also lived long enough to learn all the secrets that he used in his haunting of the opera house. He was both a skilled magician and builder, and his use of these skills plays a very important role in the believability of his story. The fact that you are young also means that you will have many more chances to play good roles. Would it really hurt your career so much to give up this one? The third reason that I believe you should forego this role is that you are much too good-looking. I hope you don't think that this is just gratuitous flattery. I assure you it is not. The very reason that Erik became the Phantom of the Opera was because of his disfigured face. Leroux described that face as "the mask of death." The horror of his face is what made Erik seek the refuge of the labyrinth below the opera house. He simply could not bear the cruelty of those who looked upon him. Even though your face would be hidden by a mask, in the back of every movie-goer's mind would be the vision of what you really look like. How could we be expected to believe that you had suffered the same torture that Erik suffered? And that torture is what allows us to sympathize with him and overlook his evil acts. The fourth reason that I believe you should not take the role of Erik is that you are far better suited to play the role of Raoul. When I read Leroux's novel, I must admit I didn't have much sympathy for Raoul, perhaps because I was so enthralled with the character of Erik. I was even angry at Christine for abandoning him. This role needs a very strong and passionate actor who can make us understand how Christine could chose Raoul over Erik. I think perhaps you are the one actor who could play the part of Raoul and make us understand Christine's choice. There is one last reason that I believe you should not accept this role and that is because if you do, the one actor who deserves it more than anyone else will be denied the chance to take his place in film history. Michael Crawford has put his heart and soul into the development of this character. He is largely responsible for the success that the musical has enjoyed. His recordings of this music continue to sell very well, and those recordings continue to make money for Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Warner Records. He was promised this role long ago by Andrew Lloyd-Webber. I don't know what reasons Warner Brothers and Lord Lloyd-Webber have for not wanting Mr. Crawford to get this role, but if you agree to do it, you will become a party to a great injustice. I beg you, Mr. Banderas, please have the courage and integrity to step aside and insist that Mr. Crawford be given the role that rightfully belongs to him. If you give up this role for the good of the movie and the many thousands of fans of the Phantom of the Opera, you will become a hero to us all. I know I, for one, would be your lifelong fan, and I believe it would also secure you a special place in the heart of every Phantom fan and in film history as a true gentleman -- and that is something we see far too little of these days. It is not very often that we hear of a celebrity putting the good of others ahead of himself, and that is a sad commentary on not only the entertainment industry, but our society as a whole. I believe that when you do a good deed, it comes back to you many times over. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by stepping aside. Now I must apologize for being so long-winded. For someone who didn't know how to begin, I've managed to write quite a long letter. Please believe me when I say I gave this letter much thought, and I hope that you will accept it in the spirit in which it was intended. I wish you only the best in your career and in your life, and I really believe that you will do the right thing. Thank you for letting me express my thoughts to you. Sincerely, Cheryl Harsin |
| Name: charlie ann Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Florida Time: 1998-07-01 21:30:56 Comments: Mr. Banderas: I was most impressed with your performance in Evita, and personally am a fan of yours, but I respectfully request that you reconsider taking on the part of the Phantom in the upcoming movie version. There is no one, and I mean NO ONE who can make this movie and give us the Music of the Night but the one and only Phantom, Michael Crawford. He does not only portray the role, he IS the Phantom! Sir, the role of Raul seems more suited for you, if it has not already been cast. You would achieve far more recognition with a song like "All I ask of You" than any of the songs performed as the Phantom. You do not have the quality, maturity, training or voice to be cast in what many people consider to be the best tenor part ever portrayed on the stage. Sir Andrew was correct in picking Michael Crawford for the original part. I hope that you will not crush your wonderful and ascending career by taking a part that was clearly meant for only one man, and that man is Michael Crawford. Your efforts, I am certain, are well intentioned, but they equate an exercise in futility. Thank you. |
| Name: Sabra Steinsiek Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: New Mexico Time: 1998-07-01 19:14:38 Comments: Mr. Banderas Please reconsider your desire to play the Phantom. I can certainly understand why you want the part... but you would be doing a disservice to yourself and to Phantom Phans everywhere if you take it on. Please, show some respect to the role and to yourself by turning it down and concentrating your energies in a part that will enhance your career because you will do it well. The Phantom is *not* that part. |
| Name: Bonita
Hammill Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Australia Time: 1998-07-01 15:42:49 Comments: Dear Mr Banderas, I write to you as a concerned musical theatre fan about the proposed casting of yourself in the title role of "The Phantom of the Opera" movie to be made next year. Unfortunately over recent decades few stage musicals have transfered successfully to film, and those that do tend to have those singers/actors that have (originally) played the main roles on the stage over a period of time. "Phantom" is hoped by many to reverse the fortunes of the movie musical which is often not percieved as popular by the general movie going public. "Phantom" is one of the most popular musicals of all time, known throughtout the world and loved. Intrinsically linked to "Phantom" and it's success is the voice of one man, Michael Crawford, the original stage Phantom, who has the rare ability to become the character in voice, expression and movement on a bare stage. He indeed has an aura about his concert performance which I have yet to see in any other portrayal of the title role in the stage production. For many years phans of the musical have been lead to believe we would see Mr Crawford in the role he originated and is recognised all over the world for. His is the name that is irreversably linked to "Phantom" and the title role. I fear if you accept this role your own popularity will recieve a backlash by the number of "Phantom" phans who will refuse to see the movie due to Mr Crawford's absence and by the obvious comparison that will be made between your singing and performance and his. I mean no offence, I enjoyed your performance in "Evita", but I don't believe you to have the vocal requirements for this role that calls for a person not only able to sing but portray a character that is suppose to sing to the highest quality like never heard before, in fact to make the character Christine believe Erik is the "Angel of Music". The role hence needs to be given to someone that has had decades of singing lessons and experience, like Mr Crawford. Also I believe on film, despite the mask and makeup you would still appear too young for the part, the Phantom must appear as an older man of over twenty years seniority to the female lead. I think however it would be delightful to see you as the other love interest in the movie as Raoul. I hope you will listen to the reaction of the Phantom phans and with respect to the movie musical gene decide to follow in the path of Cary Grant (who refused the part of Henry Higgins in the screen version of "My Fair Lady" for the original stage performer Rex Harrison) and join with us in asking that Michael Crawford deserves to recreate his phenomenal performance on film for posterity. If you do this you would win untold repect from Phantom phans and the general public, and give the musical an opportunity to become the success it deserves on film for generations to come. Thankyou for letting me express my opinions on this matter. I wish you all the best in your career in the future. An Aussie phan - Bonita Hammill. |
| Name: Angel Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Illinois Time: 1998-07-01 01:20:50 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas: I have nothing against you personally nor professionally, but I am insistent that Michael Crawford deserves the Phantom role in the upcoming movie. If you have ever seen him perform on stage or in concert, you know this to be true. If you have ever witnessed fans' reactions to his singing, you know this to be true. How could you take this opportunity away from him? I know that as an actor it is not customary to turn down potentially "big" roles, but you could set a precedent. Recognize and appreciate Michael Crawford's uncanny mastery over the Phantom role, and the public's love for him. See how perfectly he has embodied the character through countless stage performances. Realize how the-powers-that-be at RUG and Warner Brothers have in effect jilted him after promising him the role almost ten years ago. Have some respect for a gifted fellow actor. Please give serious thought to relinquishing this role to the man who first made it great - Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Tanya
Markovic Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Geneva, Switzerland Time: 1998-06-30 20:56:17 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, You are a very famous actor and you have a very nice voice, but Michael Crawford is the best "Phantom". His voice is so Magic and so bewitch, he's the only "Angel of music" for this movie. Sorry, don't be offended but Michael is the spirit of the Phantom. |
| Name: Heather R. Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Chicago Time: 1998-06-30 05:16:31 Comments: Mr. Banderas: I know your work as an actor and have appreciated your performances, most notably in Desperado and Evita. I am looking forward to seeing you in the new Zorro film, for I think you fit the role very well. Everyone likes to see actors in roles that fit them; obviously that is what makes for movies that stand the test of time, movies that win Oscars and audience's hearts. That is why I must object to your desire to portray the Phantom in the upcoming movie version of The Phantom of the Opera. With all due respect, I and hundreds of thousands of other fans of this fantastic musical have been waiting years to see Michael Crawford bring this character to life on the silver screen just as he did in thousands of performances on stage. He was promised the role years ago. He has shaped the character of the Phantom to such a degree that his voice, his movements, his PRESENCE is forever associated with the role. He has set the standards that all subsequent Phantom actors have performed by. Sure, you could "put your soul" into your performance, but can you bring to your performance what Michael has done, and is still capable of doing? Just look at the "Who Should Star in the Phantom Movie" polls that have recently taken place on the Internet (Playbill's in particular) in which Michael Crawford was the favorite choice by a landslide. This is his chance to make movie history, to win an Oscar for the same performance that won him a Tony on stage, just as Yul Brynner did for The King and I. You are taking that chance away from him. This is not simply a doubt in your abilities. This is not a question of ego or money; it is one of ethics. It is a question of appreciation for Michael Crawford's contributions to the world of theater and music, in a role that he has trained and practiced for for years, a role that he has perfected in the eyes of countless people. I beg you, please reconsider your decision. Give Michael Crawford the chance he so richly deserves. Put yourself aside; help make movie history, and the dreams of the thousands of people who have never had the chance to see Michael Crawford perform on stage, come true. |
| Name: Maggie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-06-30 05:12:17 Comments: To Antonio Banderas: Before you agree to do the movie of "Phantom of the Opera," please take an honest inventory of your abilities, your training, and your previous experience. Have you been singing professionally for over 40 years? Have you had more than 20 years of classical voice training? Have you earned a scrapbook of rave reviews and a shelf of awards for your work in musical theater? No? Then why do you want to take on one of the most difficult roles in musical theater history and deny the rabid fans of this show the chance to see the performance they have waited years to see on the movie screen? Why submit yourself to possible ridicule if your performance does not meet the standard that was set 12 years ago by Michael Crawford? And you--or any other actor who takes this role--will most definitely be compared to him. Every note you sing, every gesture you make will be scrutinized and compared and, if it's not up to the expectations of this musical's vast legion of fans, it will be ridiculed. I can promise you that most fans of "Phantom of the Opera" are also Michael Crawford fans. Their disappointment in not seeing him on the screen will be turned into bitterness against anyone connected with this film. If you truly believe that you have the vocal ability, the training, and the depth of experience the Phantom requires, then go ahead and do it. But beware! The critics and the fans are waiting--and they will be brutal if your performance is even slightly inferior. I personally will not see this movie unless Michael Crawford is in it, and neither will countless thousands of other fans. It will be a cold day in Hades before Andrew Lloyd Webber and Warner Bros. get a penny from my pocket. Nor would I ever pay to see any other film you star in if you insist on taking this role that rightfully belongs to the man who made it indelibly his own--Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Deb Peterson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-06-30 03:15:30 Comments: Dear Mr. Bandaras, I am writing to you concerning the Phantom movie. Having just seen Mr. crawford in concert for the first time in my life, I must say that if he in not cast as the Phantom then I have no reason to see the movie. You see, Mr. Bandaras, I now have my memories of Mr. Crawford singing and becoming the phantom right before my eyes. Nobody from Hollywood can take those memories from me. I have now seen the REAL phantom and would have no reason to see the movie. However, if you were to play the part of Raul, with Mr. Crawford as the phantom, then you would have a major hit. Please consider what so many are trying to tell you and let Michael Crawford play the role he was born to play. |
| Name: Scott Poris Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: South Carolina, USA Time: 1998-06-30 02:51:38 Comments: While I have enjoyed all of your roles in the past. I must question your motives (and abilities) in seeking out this role. It is complex. Much more so than you have exhibited in the past. I have seen Michael in this role in NY. have enjoyed his concerts up and down the East Coast and had hoped to see him in the movie...Please, come to your senses and stick to action flicks. Thanks for your time! Scott |
| Name: Cheryl Powell Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: PA Time: 1998-06-30 02:11:44 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Having given this much thought, I am convinced that there is a part for you in the film version of "The Phantom of the Opera." It seems, however, that you have chosen or are being pushed to seek a role that is totally wrong for your talents and abilities. You are a talented man, Mr. Banderas, but your strength lies in playing the romantic lead. The role of the phantom is basically a character part, and one that demands a classically trained voice. There is one actor who is perfect for the role of the phantom - who could perfectly embody his haunting ethereal quality - and he is Michael Crawford! By trying to force yourself into this role, Mr. Banderas, you will only invite comparison between your performance and that of Mr. Crawford. I fear that your reputation as an actor will only suffer as a result. Your talent and persona would serve the role of Raoul much better. As the dashing count (who gets the girl in the end), you would be playing thetype of role that you were born to play. Plus, by stepping aside for Mr. Crawford, you would be living out the stuff of Hollywood legend. People still remember how Cary Grant stepped aside to let Rex Harrison have the role of Henry Higgins in "My Fair Lady," stating that he didnt want to see anyone besides Harrison in the role. If you would pass on the role of the phantom, giving Mr. Crawford the chance to portray the character that he was born to play, and instead take the role of Raoul, I predict that you would both be remembered come Oscar time. Sincerely, Cheryl D. Powell |
| Name: Dori Bruns Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Fallbrook, CA Time: 1998-06-30 00:36:33 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Many of us who were not able to see Michael Crawford play the Phantom have been waiting years for the film to be made. During the Los Angeles run, I was living near San Diego caring for my aging mother who had Alzheimer's. I loved Michael Crawford in "Barnum" and have the OLC recording of POTO. I marvel at the increased richness and range of his voice. He has grown enormously as a singer and a performer and his definitive interpretation of Erik has won the praise of critics and the loyalty of his fans. His recent concert tour gave me the first opportunity to actually see him while he sang the Phantom music. And I was totally bowled over. His performance is mesmerizing. Without makeup or the mask, he became Erik, his haunting voice thrilling the audience. Hearing it, you realize that the music defined the man. Erik may be a murderous lunatic, but you feel his pain and his longing for Christine's love through the anguish in his voice. And that voice must soar, Mr. Banderas. It must be a classically trained voice. No other can achieve the desired effect. I read recently that you sang some of the songs from POTO for Lord Webber's birthday party. And because of that, you are favored to play the role of Erik in the film. This would be a very poor career choice on your part. Your handsome face would not be seen and your fans would be disappointed. Although you sang very nicely in "Evita", Erik is not your type of role. Not being the heroic, romantic lead, you would be wasted in the part. I think that you would be much better as Raoul with Michael Crawford playing Erik, a much older man. That would please all of the fans and ensure the success of the film. No offense, Mr. Banderas, but I would prefer to just go on listening to the OLC tape and watching the video of the concert if Michael Crawford is not to play the Phantom. I would have no interest in seeing the film. |
| Name: Kelly
Crawford Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Carrollton, TX Time: 1998-06-29 22:25:22 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I am writing to you (as have many others) regarding the movie version of Webber's Phantom of the Opera. It has been said that you are in the lead for this role. I am asking, as a fan of the story, a fan of yours, and a fan of Michael Crawford, that you decline this role. I understand that you want to play it, but please, Mr. Banderas, look at the facts. 1) You are not vocally trained for this role. It is very demanding. Ask any of the people that play it on stage and they will tell you it is one of the hardest roles they've ever played. 2) Everyone knows Michael Crawford as the Phantom. This is who the majority of the fans want to see. If you take this role there will be a boycott of the movie. Many fans have stated that they will not see the film, will boycott the theatres that show it, and will boycott Warner Brothers. I would hate to see you get caught up in this. The fans aren't angry with you but with the "Powers that Be" and Hollywood for making this mistake. 3) You are simply not right for this role. Just like every actor in Batman and Robin was not right for the role they were in, you are simply not right for the role. Hollywood thinks that if a movie has a "big name star"in it than it will be a hit. Of all the Broadway musicals that have been made, the ones that had Hollywood names did not do nearly as well as those that kept the stage stars in their roles. It comes down to this. We want to see Crawford. We have wanted to see him do this since the first rumors started that the movie would be made. He was promised the role by Lloyd Webber years ago. I would hate to see you caught up in all this mess. The fans would not see this movie, causing it to be a bomb, which would reflect badly on your career. We don't mean to do your career harm, but I'm afraid that may be what happens. Please, Mr. Banderas. Wait for a role that you are better suited for and let your career move forward instead of taking a role that will only cause problems. We know who we want to see and we will only pay to see that one person. It would be wonderful for us to be able to say, "Antonio Banderas is a wonderful man. He knew that the fans would not be happy with him in this role and stepped down. He shows that he cares what the fans think." |
| Name: Joella Knapp Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Woodville, Texas Time: 1998-06-29 18:56:33 Comments: The letters already entered state the case as well as I could, but we all feel it is necessary for you to know, Mr. Banderas, that there is a tremendous number of Michael Crawford fans out there. Probably a sufficient number to impact any movie version ot Phantom of the Opera that does not contain Michael Crawford!! None of us want to adversely affect your career, and sincerely hope that more appropriate roles will be found for you, and that your success rolls on. This problem with the movie version of POTO is so complex and it affects your career in a serious way. No one but Michael Crawford can be successful as the phantom, and without him, POTO will be just one more Broadway musical that bombed on the big screen. Is there an actor alive willing to go into a project knowing that it WILL be a bomb? I never got to see Michael as the phantom--it would be a dream come true to be able to see him on the big screen in THE personna he created from the role given to him--the first phantom, the best phantom, and the ONLY phantom that the Legion of the Legend wants to see!! We all wish you the best in your life and career; I'l be happy to help swell your audiences for anything you do--EXCEPT POTO. Regards, Joella Knapp |
| Name: Melinda
Thackery Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Ohio Time: 1998-06-29 18:42:53 Comments: You have been very selective in the roles that you have chosen to play and your career is just staring to flourish. It is for this reason that I am writing this letter. I do not know if you are aware of all the growing controversy surrounding the Phantom of the Opera movie. Lately, there has been a lot of very negative and increasingly hostile feedback on this project. Most of this concerning the casting of the role of the Phantom. One reason why this has become such a sensitive subject is because Warners has allowed too much time to pass for someone else to satifactorily and safely (career-wise) to assume the role. The public has seen Mr. Crawford too often (with and without the mask) and has heard him too many times sing the signature song to this play, "Music of the Night". He seems to be everywhere. Visually and vocally, he has a very powerful and very memorable presentation. His timing of body, hands, and facial movements with the music is fixed in their mind. And the voice! The style of enunciation, inflection and tone of his voice are just too unique. I have tried very hard to be open-minded about this, but, I'm sorry, to me Crawford is the Phantom (I am not a member of any Michael Crawford fan club). I had never seen his performance live until recently (June 27) in concert and it's almost scary how he transforms into the character without the use of any props or make-up. The man breathes the role and is very passionate about playing him. He has defined the role both visually and vocally for the audience - we know him. We have seen him honored for his portrayal. It has been called one of the most critically acclaimed performances in Broadway history. This is not a performance the public wants changed or tampered with. The public wants this performance immortalized and documented on film. The public also knows the background on the contractual assumptions between Warners and Mr. Crawford. We know, for instance, that Crawford had clauses written in his EFX and other such contracts which would allow him to be available to film the movie. Many (not only Crawford fans) are very resentful that the man along with the Phantom audience has been left dangling for 8 or more years. That he has single-handedly kept the music of the Phantom of the Opera alive and before the public then was stabbed in the back for his efforts. Every time a casting trial ballon has been released by Warners, this hostility has become increasingly directed toward the performer whose name has been mentioned. Even fans of those mentioned have joined in the efforts to get the original performance on film. Lately, the feelings for this movie casting is quickly changing from civility to the equivalency of road-rage. Please do not allow yourself and your budding career to become the focal point of all this resentment. Cary Grant was macho enough to step aside for Rex Harrison and gave the "My Fair Lady" audience what they wanted to see - a once-of-a-lifetime performance saved for future generations. The actor (if not Crawford) who accepts this role and his performance will inevitably be compared to the highly acclaimed Broadway performance. Please do not take the mask from a man who has worked so hard to earn it. Thank you for your time. |
| Name: Linda Frey Website: Referred by: From LinkExchange From: Time: 1998-06-29 17:05:34 Comments: I have been waiting for the movie version of Phantom of the Opera since I first saw the play. I had read articles saying that Michael Crawford would be playing the Phantom I was shocked when I heard that you are the leading candidate for the role. I am a big fan of Michael Crawford and cannot imagine anyone else in this role. I have told a lot of my friends that you were to play the part and they actually thought that I was joking. I saw you in Evita. In fact I have the CD and video and really enjoy them. However, the Phantom is not Evita. I just do not feel you have the type of voice necessary for this role. I wish you luck in all your endeavors but I will not see this movie if it is not done with Michael Crawford. I have a lot of friends who are not Michael Crawford fans who agree with me. Mr. Crawford originated the role and is internationally known for it and I feel it is an outrage to cast anyone else in the part. There is only one Phantom and his name is MICHAEL CRAWFORD. |
| Name: Terry
D.& Terry L. Tidwell Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: San Luis Obispo, CA Time: 1998-06-29 14:53:15 Comments: Mr. B...I have waited years to see this musical performed by Michael Crawford, and to own a copy of the video. Please elevate yourself in the eyes of the people who already like and respect you, and decline to perform this role in the movie. We fans deserve what we want to pay for. Thanks, T & T |
| Name: Bethanie
Rayburn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: Time: 1998-06-29 03:46:39 Comments: Estimido Sr. Bandaras: Estamos pensando que es mejor si usted no tome el parte de el fantasma de la opera. El parte es muy difficil a cantar, y necessitar un cantador con mas experiencia. Este parte pertenecer a Michael Crawford. Lo creo, y lo puede cantar con todo su alma, y la alma de el fantasma. Por favor, no tome este parte de un vida de Sr. Crawford. Sr. Crawford lo gano. attentamente, Sra. Bethanie Marie Covarrubias-Bustamante de Rayburn |
| Name: Rachel
Nesser Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In! From: New Jersey Time: 1998-06-28 22:02:08 Comments: Hello, Mr. Banderas. My name is Rachel Nesser, and I'm a huge Phantom fan! I am also a member of The Michael Crawford Phantom Movie Campaign; that's why I feel it necessary to write to you. I think you are a good actor. I saw your performance in Evita and I thought the role suited you well. However, Evita is not The Phantom of the Opera, and Che is not the Phantom! Nor is Zorro, I'm afraid. Even though you did a fine job singing in Evita, it is not the same kind of singing that is required for The Phantom of the Opera- please don't confuse the two. I don't think your singing is at the level that it should for the role of the Phantom. And since I am a loyal fan of Michael Crawford, and a member of this campaign, I would like to see Michael Crawford, the original Phantom, cast in this important role. If you've ever heard Michael Crawford sing, if you've ever seen him perform on stage, you would know how I feel, and you would see that he is the most qualified actor for the role. To all of his fans, of which there are thousands all over the world, Michael is and always will be the Phantom; he is our Angel of Music! It would be a dream come true for those of us who were not privileged enough to see Michael as the Phantom on stage to see him play the Phantom on the big screen! Please don't deprive us of this chance to see Michael in his Tony-award winning role once again! I ask you, Mr. Banderas, to think about what I've said, to think about what we're all saying, to search your heart and do the right thing- tell Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber and those at Warner Bros. that the part of the Phantom should be played by Michael Crawford! This would be a very noble and generous gesture on your part; you would make so many of Michael Crawford's fans very happy! We members of The Michael Crawford Phantom Movie Campaign would be especially grateful! Personally, I think you would be better suited for other roles. Please, leave the Phantom's mask to Michael! Thank you. Sincerely, Rachel |
| Name: Diane Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Palmdale, CA Time: 1998-06-28 21:49:25 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, Please do not take this campaign in a bad light. It is not meant as an insult to you personally, it is meant as a support for the person so many fans really want to see in the movie Phantom. I think a lot of you as an actor. I loved you in Interview with a Vampire and it looks like you found a wonderful part that suits you well in the movie Zorro. Please think about the movie Phantom of the Opera carefully before you agree to do it. I don't think you realize that your performance will be held up to Michael Crawford's. Do you think that your singing will be compared in a favorable light to his? His recordings as the Phantom have been cherished for over a decade, his voice is world renowned. There are many angry fans out here who have been waiting for eight years and were promised that Mr. Crawford's Tony Award winning performance would be captured in this movie when it was made. I am afraid that the anger of the fans may turn on you. Actually I would like to see you in part of Raoul, maybe then I would finally understand why Christine chooses him in the end. Please reconsider this decision, history will not be kind, nor I am afraid the fans of Phantom of the Opera. Sincerely, Diane |
| Name: Nancy
Shealy Website: Referred by: Word of Mouth From: Greenville, SC Time: 1998-06-28 19:40:26 Comments: Dear Mr. Banderas, I am writing to you not as a fanatic, but as a fan of good music and musicals. I have heard all about your interest in the Phantom Movie, but I ask you now with all due respect to seriously reconsider this. First of all, I am a fan of the musical and would love to see a movie, but the reason I want a movie is not just for the plot. All my life I have dreamed of seeing Michael Crawford play that part. It is the part he was born to play, almost as if he were created expressly for that purpose. The movie (I thought) would be my opportunity to see the Original Phantom in the role of his career. I dreamed of the time I could finally see him (and on the big screen too...) but now it looks as if my dream may not come true after all. My family doesn't have the money to spend on "frivolites" like MC's concerts, but a movie with him...just up our alley! And also, the matter of your voice comes up. I"M NOT SAYING YOU CAN"T SING! You surprised me in Evita, but there is such a difference between the two! Not only would your voice be ruined from singing such a strenuous part without the right training, but people who wouldn't like your portrayal would definitely spread their opinions around and there fore give the movie BAD publicity. Your voice was perfect for Che in Evita, but (and I say this nicely and respectfully) your voice isn't the type for Phantom. that type is more classical that Che's role. You'd only be hurting yourself--movie-wise and vocally. I think that whoever plays this role (and once again, I am pulling for Michael Crawford) should have proved that he can sing this type of music. Not just one or two songs, but the musical itself. I would not be willing to let the movie be your trial though. Also, there is the matter of the character. I'm not insinuating that you couldn't portray him well, but I think that with a character this in depth there needs to be some previous experience with the role--vocally and acting-wise. In short, I don't think this movie should go to anyone who hasn't played him on stage. This is NOT a reflection on your capabilities. I think you are a great actor, but with going to screen from stage, there has to be some resemblance to the original character, and the best way to preserve that is to let an experienced actor take over. I end here, (Praying I haven't offended you in anyway, for that was NOT my intention.) with one last request. PLEASE: Give the Mask back to Michael Crawford. He loves that character, and it will always be a part of him--that much is evident in the way he sings songs from Phantom. He is more Phantom on a bare stage than most actors are in the production, complete with Christine, Makeup, and mask. Here is your chance to prove to a fan how much her opinion means to you. Cary Grant gave Rex Harrison the role in "My Fair Lady" because he knew Rex was a better Henry Higgins. I would ask that you give the role to the man who loves it, the man who originated it, and the man who made an evil demented killer an object of pity and symapthy around the world: Michael Crawford. Make a 17 year old girls dream come true. PLEASE. Give the mask back to Michael. Nancy Shealy |