Total: 3000 Guests
| Name: Idoia Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Spain Time: 1999-12-06 14:09:29 Comments: Idoia, 31, Spain, I had the opportunity to see The Phantom Of The Opera in 1991 at London's Majesty's theatre. By the time I watched it, I had listened to the album time and again since I bought it in 1988 and I knew it by heart, but I really missed Mr. Crawford as the leading man. So I dreamed of seeing him in the movie. I like Antonio Banderas, the fact is that he did a great Che in Evita, and he's Spanish like me, so I know him very well as an actor, I think he'd be a great phantom BUT there's no Phantom but MICHAEL CRAWFORD, the character belongs to him, to his voice (I admire him since I saw him in Hello, Dolly! playing Cornelius Hackle) and personality. By the way... What about Barbra Streisand playing Christine? ;-D Idoia. |
| Name: Eileen
Kent Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Utica, NY Time: 1999-12-06 14:06:36 Comments: Michael Crawford originated and created the role of Phantom which has made the play so very memorable and successful. Everyone wishes they had been one of the lucky ones to see him in the part. The movie version will only be a hit if Michael is again selected as the lead. Antonio would be an excellent Raul, and Dale Kristien , or Sarah, a wonderful Christine. Thank you for your consideration. Eileen Kent age 53 Utica, NY |
| Name: Dee
Sanchez Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Lyndhurst, New Jersey Time: 1999-12-06 14:03:45 Comments: My name is Dee Sanchez. I am 54 years old. I live in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. I cannot conceive of anyone but Michael Crawford playing the Phantom. I have seen him and several others in the part and no one has the magic as he does. To cast someone else is criminal!!!!!!!!! Especially if they use Banderras. My e-mail address is deesanchez@worldnet.att.net. My husband Frank Sanchez who is 53 also agrees with the only choice being Michael. |
| Name: Claire
Suzanne Robey Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-06 14:01:35 Comments: I strongly support the casting of Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the upcoming movie. I have been a phan of the musical for about two years, and while I respect all of the actors who have so far been rumored to be taking over the part, I believe Mr. Crawford, who has the experience, presence, charisma, talent, and singing ability, is the most suited for the role. I heard about this movement in an article published in the Washington Post last year. Please add my name to those on the petition. Claire Robey 18 years old |
| Name: Brian
Belcher Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Toronto Time: 1999-12-06 13:58:03 Comments: Hi My Name is Brian, 38 from Toronto. I firmly Beleive Michael Crawford Should Be Cast as Phanton in the Movie Because: 1. He has The Voice 2. He has the Movement 3. HE IS THE "PHANTOM" 4. I don't think anyone could do this Film Version any Justice other than Michael Crawford! Always, Brian Belcher |
| Name: Merrie
Sutphin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-06 13:54:41 Comments: Merrie Sutphin, 15, Michael Crawford truly has one of the best voices I have ever heard, and deserves the role more than anyone I can think of! Thanks for supporting him! Merrie |
| Name: Holly
Schnitker Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Council Bluffs, Ia Time: 1999-12-06 06:03:47 Comments: Michael Crawford is the ultimate "Phantom of the Opera." I just do not understand how Antonio Banderas can even be considered for such a demanding role. ALW's 50th birthday bash proved that the Spanish "pretty boy" cannot match the strength and talent of co-singer, Sarah Brightman. If Antonio stars in the role of the Phantom, the movie might as well get flushed down the drain. Evita was enough! We don't need an encore from Senor Banderas. Michael forever is the "angel" of my heart. |
| Name: Diana Website: Referred by: AngelFire From: Minnesota Time: 1999-12-06 04:25:31 Comments: I love Phantom and would love to see it on screen, but only with Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Stephanie
Corcino Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: PA-Penn State University Time: 1999-12-06 04:12:42 Comments: Warner Bros. have two choices...One, they can cast a Hollywood actor with no extensive vocal training to the lead of the movie version of the musical or two, they can cast Michael Crawford, sit back, and let the magic of his legendary performance unfold. The choice is obvious. Cast the REAL name draw: Michael Crawford. S.C. Age 20 |
| Name: Sherry
Cornwell Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Atlanta, GA Time: 1999-12-06 03:42:07 Comments: No one else could possibly play the Phantom - it would be a waste of everyone's effort and time. |
| Name: Scott A.
Hermreck Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Omaha, NE Time: 1999-12-06 00:37:28 Comments: Please Put Michael in the Movie. |
| Name: Anna Website: Pearl's Domain Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Sussex, England Time: 1999-12-05 20:24:42 Comments: I agree that Micheal Crawford should play the Phantom. I've been a Phantom fan for many years now and he has a lovely voice. Keep up the campaign! |
| Name: Marilynn Gardo Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Georgia Time: 1999-12-05 20:09:43 Comments: As a fan of movie musicals, it is disappointing when a Hollywood "name" replaces a Broadway success name just for the sake of a name. In 99% of the cases, this action results in a disasterous flop of a movie. The Hollywood "name" does not have the same knowledge and "buy in" of the character as the Broadway name who created the character and gave that character a soul that the audience came to believe in and love. If a Hollywood "name" is needed by the creators of the film to satisfy their need for a screen name, then make that Hollywood "name" one of the characters who are not as identified with a certain role. Michael Crawford is identified with the role of the Phantom. Movie goers will expect to see that name in that role or will, as so often happens with movie versions of stage productions, simply see the movie as a watered down version and not worth seeing. |
| Name: Ceeeceee Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: USA Time: 1999-12-05 14:59:12 Comments: Warner Bros. owns the rights to make the most enormous money-making movie musical ever produced by Hollywood. The Phantom of the Opera stage show contains ALL the ingredients for success, as proven by its unprecedented worldwide success. WITHOUT changes and with the man who created the sympathetic role of the Phantom, Michael Crawford, in the lead, Warner Bros. would rise to the top of Hollywood studios. It’s a no brainer! The stage show is an unparalled success. Michael Crawford won every possible major award for his acting and singing in the role of the Phantom, both in the U.S. and the U.K. What more can anyone want? Ceeeceee |
| Name: Nicky Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: England Time: 1999-12-05 13:49:30 Comments: I can't remember how many times i've signed this, but i'll keep on at it until justice is done MICHAEL CRAWFORD ROCKS AS THE PHANTOM!!!!! (by the way don't miss Parkinson on 10th of December, it's with the man himself, Mr Crawford) |
| Name: Angela
Bernhardt Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-05 12:58:04 Comments: My name is Angela Bernhardt I am only 17 years old and have completely succumbed to the enchantment of Michael Crawford and the magic of Phantom of the Opera. To be brief, Michael Crawford IS THE ONLY ONE who knows this character inside and out, he originated it!! If it is money they are worried about, that concern is unfounded, the tens of thousands of Michael Crawford devotees, including myself, will see to that. Otherwise the film WILL fail, the fans will ALSO see to that! Please know that when Michael Crawford steps into this character he gives his whole heart,soul, and mind, how many other actors in Hollywood can you say that about? Please, I beseech you, choose Michael Crawford! Let his passionate performance be immortalized for all time! Thank you. |
| Name: Steve Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: UK Time: 1999-12-05 12:53:35 Comments: Hi All. Been reading this site with interest for a while. I only went to see Phantom for the first time last August at the Liverpool Empire (UK) and WOW!!!! what a show. Been my favourite for years!!! I saw the hsow with Antinio Banderas and with all due respect to him YOU CAN'T HAVE A PHANTOM WITH A SPANISH ACCENT!!!! Please please please please Mr. Lloyd Webber can we have Michael. It will be a real tragedy if he doesn't get it |
| Name: Brandi
Havill Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: US Time: 1999-12-05 12:37:44 Comments: Why Michael Crawford should be cast as the Phantom... Hello, my name is Brandi Havill and I am 16 years old. The reason I feel Michael Crawford should be cast as the Phantom, is because his voice is captivating and the way he portrays the phantom is unbelievable. Though I have never seen him in the actual play itself, I have seen him perform bits and pieces of it, here and there. I heard him sing the songs and seen him act out some of the parts of the musical. He is breath-taking. At first when everyone told me he was the same guy that played in "Hello, Dolly!" when he was a kid, I was very skeptical. I was like "that kid?! Playing the Phantom?!" ... But after I heard and saw him...my opinion of him changed dramatically. I fell in love with his voice. Surely the Phantom's voice is one and the same! Though I know my opinion may not count for much, I would just like to add, that if he is cast as the lead, you will have more than half the majority of music lovers paying to see it. And the merchandise sales will be incredible! Please Consider Him And Only Him... Always the Phantom's, Brandi |
| Name: Alison Lehto Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-05 12:36:02 Comments: Hello! My name is Alison Lehto; I am 56 years old, mother of a 39 year old deaf step-son and a 14 year old joy-of-my-life daughter. My daughter and I both agree that no one - ABSOLUTLELY NO ONE - except Michael Crawford can do justice to the role of Erik in "The Phantom of the Opera!" After all, who is Erik other than Mr. Crawford himself?! Your movie will only be truly successful if Michael is the Phantom. Go ahead and have Antonio Banderas as Raoul and/or Madonna or Celine Dion as Christine. But whatever you do, cast only Michael Crawford as the Phantom, Erik! Thank you. You will have no regrets. Furthermore, Box 5 and every seat in the house will be full if you do! |
| Name: Alice
Hudson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-05 12:32:47 Comments: Alice Hudson, Age 16, I fell in LOVE with Micheal Crawford's voice when I was 9 years old. It was the first cd I ever listened to, and I knew then that there was something different about him. He has a passion in his voice that is so deep and so affectionate, that I know of only 1 other man who might be able to match it, but not pass it. I did not have the priveledge of seeing him live in anything, but i wish that this movie will act as a ... i don't know. Micheal Crawford is the man. And he alone has earned this role. |
| Name: Barbara J.
Allen Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Virginia Time: 1999-12-05 12:31:00 Comments: Barbara Allen, Age 37, I live in , but drove to New York to see Michael in "The Phantom." It was worth every second on the road, and every penny I spent for the ticket! I have seen it 4 times since, with other Phantoms, and it is still a wonderful show, but I wouldn't drive 300 miles to see it. PLEASE let Michael Crawford play the role he was intended to play! Do it for the artistry, the passion, the love he brings to the music you lovingly created. |
| Name: K. E.
S. Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: New York Time: 1999-12-05 12:08:24 Comments: Michael Crawford is the man the people want!! Put this up for a democratic vote, and you'll see who is the more popular choice for Phantom!! Michael Crawford is the best, the only, the greatest, the most alluring Phantom in the biz. How can you not realize that this movie is going to be a complete flop without Michael Crawford! This movie is going to be an insult to theatre, and to the story of the Phantom without Michael Crawford, and without the original script! Only two people have created such a human Phantom, the kind we love. Not suprisingly, they were composers: Andrew Lloyd Webber, and Maury Yeston. When Hollywood grabs a hold of the Phantom story, look what happens. It's like everything has to be destroyed and made completely immoral before going on a screen! Forget it, I'm not going to see it. Not unless it is Michael Crawford's original performance. K. E. S. |
| Name: Sara
Macodnald Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Surrey, Birtish Columbia, Canada Time: 1999-12-05 05:07:55 Comments: Michaie Crawford Is the BEST!!! He is the only one capable of playing the phantom, and that's that! |
| Name: Irene
A. Banks Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Connecticut, USA Time: 1999-12-05 01:51:43 Comments: There is only ONE Phantom and his name is Michael Crawford! |
| Name: Joan Marie Dunne Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Salt Lake City, UT Time: 1999-12-04 23:21:13 Comments: Michael Crawford IS the Phantom and he set the tone and style for all the Phantoms that followed. I've heard several of them - no one plays this role with the passion and emotion of Michael Crawford. I can't imagine a Phantom movie with anyone but him as the Phantom. |
| Name: Victor
Faughnan Website: Vic Santee's Michael Crawford, Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego, CA., area Time: 1999-12-04 15:57:22 Comments: This post I would like to direct to the Executives at Warner Bros. Studio.I understand that Warner Bros. owns the rights to produce a "Phantom of the Opera" movie. If this be fact than why do we keep hearing from the Lloyd Webber and Antonio Banderas Camps that the film version will be drastically different from the Play format. Those two individuals keep releasing statements to the Media that Lloyd Webber is rewriting several songs and adding more speaking parts, etc. Also, Lloyd Webber is including in this supposed package deal to Warner Bros., the two Leads, namely Antonio Banderas and the very young (18 years old) Starlett from "Whistle Down The Wind", Laura, I believe is her name. This "Package" being put together by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber to present to Warner Bros. is not what Warner Bros. originally bought with the "Rights" to convert the Broadway Mega-Hit to the film version. Where in this "Package" is, Michael Crawford, Sarah Brightman and all the other original cast members? Where is the possible Oscar winning music, "Phantom of the Opera", "Music of the Night" and the other original music? It appears to me that Lord Lloyd Webber is attempting to see a film version produced but not a film version of the Broadway Play, but rather a rewritten deviant of the Play we all know and love. If Warner Bros. Studio and its Executives set still for this apparent rip-off than they will deserve the Box-Office Flop they will have produced. Sirs, demand from Lord Lloyd Webber what he originally sold you with the "Rights" for that Play and nothing less. Thank you for considering my thoughts on this matter. Sincerely Yours, Victor Faughnan, (619) 449-3251 |
| Name: Melis Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Turkey Time: 1999-12-04 12:55:14 Comments: My name is Melis. I live in Turkey and the Phantom of the Opera is not shown here, but on my trips abroad, I have seen it live seven times and the idea that someone else other that Michael Crawford should sing it in a movie is so silly. It would be wonderful to be able to get it on video and see it many times but someone starring other that Michael Crawford would just be a bad name ( I don' t want to be rude or anything but this is only what I think and isn' t meant to abuse anyone ) to the Phantom of the Opera. Thank you for your concern, Melis |
| Name: Dan
Baker Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-04 12:54:02 Comments: Hello, my name is Dan Baker. I believe it would be a tragic loss if Michael Crawford was not tapped to recreate his performance as the Phantom in the movie version of Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Phantom of the Opera". Although I have great respect for Antonio Banderas as an actor, I don't believe that he will be able to convey the tragic passion of the Phantom as well as Mr. Crawford did. I have yet to hear another in the role succeed in expressing the anger and frustration of the character while still fleshing out its romanticism and true compassion. I have heard many mention the argument that "making movies is a business and Mr. Banderas is a bigger draw." But I must ask, do you actually believe that women, unfamiliar with the stage version, will actually want to see a disfigured and abusive Antonio? For the audience members who would potentially go more than once to this film, there must be something to bring them back. Those who appreciated Mr. Crawford's stage performance will want to see his performance again and again. For audience members to return to Mr. Banderas' performance, he MUST be able to sell the role as effectively as Mr. Crawford. Otherwise, even the superficially motivated viewers will not accept more than one viewing; with Mr. Banderas' face being deformed, they would not return because of his appearance nor, if he were to fail to reach the emotional attachment, for his ability. Indeed, I think that, from a risk perspective, NOT casting Mr. Crawford is the greater risk. Thank you for your time. Dan Baker, age 32. |
| Name: Jenn
Adams Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-04 12:50:34 Comments: Jennifer Adams, age 19, I feel that Michael should be cast as the Phantom in the movie because I, like many people my age, did not have the opportunity to see him play the role on stage. I am a strong believer that the originals are usually if not always the best because they developed the character. I have seen many interviews with Michael where he says how much passion he has for the role and that he really became the character when he was on stage. Michael posses a passion, not only for Phantom, but for every project he has done and there is no doubt in my mind that he would put his heart and soul into the production of the movie. Another reason why he would be great is the obvious fact that he knows all the songs and staging, therefore, extra time would not have to be spent trying to teach Antonio Banderas the staging and the way the songs should be sung. I hope you take my comments into consideration and make the right choice by casting the one and only Michael Crawford as the Phantom. |
| Name: Cecilia Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Chile Time: 1999-12-04 12:47:12 Comments: My name is Cecilia (Ceci), I'm 24 and i live in Chile (I don't speak very well english, sorry!) I think Michael Crawford should appear in the movie version of the Phantom because his voice IS the Phantom voice. He can transmit the Phantom strength. I don't know if I express faithfully my feelings about this, but I really think Michael C. has to sing in the movie. Thanks. Ceci |
| Name: Joe York Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: USA Time: 1999-12-04 12:44:51 Comments: My name is Joe York and I am 26. Michael Crawford should have the role of phantom for one reason, integrity. No one can carry the role as he can, and he proved so not only by be the original but it has held through time as there has been NO ONE that has been able to hold a candle to his performance. When people think of Phantom they think Crawford. Please dont make a silly 'business' decision to put anyone else, big name or otherwise, in the role. Its box office receipt concerns that has given us Godzilla and Wild Wild West! |
| Name: A.P. Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-04 12:43:59 Comments: HELLO! I was just reading my favorite story of all time(you know which one) and I couldn't help but notice the many similiarities between the characters and everyone who is involved with TMCPMC, directly or indirectly. I mean think about it, In POTO, the well meaning Phantom decides to help a VERY talented singer whose music has inspired him to love her. A Very STUPID management ignores ALL of his demands to have her in the leading role. They feel that the Phantom is no more than I joke(in the beginning) which doesn't really pose to be too much of a threat to them or their plans. They decide to put in a very famous singer(who can't sing) in the lead role, which the Phantom believes belongs EXCLUSIVELY to Christine. The Phantom keeps sending them letters and reminders that the demands he has made were promised to him by the first guys. Management keeps ignoring it and gets all uptight when the results are not to their liking. Notice that they are constantly blaming the Phantom when he gave them a fair warning in ADVANCE. Sound familiar. I don't know if anyone else brought this up before, but I decided to post this up anyway in case no one caught it yet. The only difference is that exsists(besides the fact that Michael isn't planning to run off with a snot-nosed viscount) is that we have the way to rewite a potential tragedy into a beautiful and glorious tale of triumph for our beloved Michael(and Phantom, of course) while we look on with pride, knowing that we helped give a tiny boost for him to have another triumph so that we and all the people in the generations to come can enjoy him over and over again. If worst comes to worst and he is not in the upcoming movie(and I hope I never live to see that happen) we all know that our beloved Michael is the one and only Phantom. His was the voice that inspired us all and the rest of the world, not some Zorro-wannabe. And nobody, not ALW, not AB, not even the jerks at WB and RUG, can take that fact away from us and every single person who has heard Michael sing as the Phantom(on stage or CD) and wept. Nope, they can't take that fact away from any of us, no matter how hard they try! I WON'T LET THEM!!!!!!!!!! |
| Name: Riham
Mustafa Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Egypt Time: 1999-12-03 21:19:28 Comments: This is to support the many other fans of Michael Crawford who believe that he is the true master of the Phantom. I add my vote to theirs and hope that he receives the role that he was born to play. Hope to see the movie soon, with the Phantom of our choice in it. Thankyou. Sincerely, Riham Mustafa |
| Name: Mary Sowell Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Valyermo, CA Time: 1999-12-03 20:26:11 Comments: This is really impressive. Any chance of succeeding? I would like to see Micheal Crawford in the movie. Good luck with your campaign. Mary |
| Name: Dave Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-03 14:42:42 Comments: Lets make two phantom movies 1 with Michael & 1 with antonio lets see who goes to see which, I know what the percentage would be Michael 99% - Antonio 1%. Lets face it Andrew nobody wants to see Antonio play the Phantom so why do you keep pushing at peoples emotions and feelings. I know that the only thing that is going to get pushed is your career out the door, so do the smart thing, no the right thing give Michael(the phantom)crawford what he has worked hard for, for 10 years he deserves it and you know it, your just thinking about money, well I don't want to spoil your fun but if you allow antonio to play the Phantom you won't make any money cause like I said nobody want's to see antonio play the Phantom |
| Name: Charlene Penka Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Lancaster, CA Time: 1999-12-03 14:05:22 Comments: I have seen Phantom of the Opera four times, 2 of those were Michael Crawford. I came away thrilled and very much in love with POTO. I enjoyed the other two performances but did not come away with the same feeling as the first two. I saw Andrew Lloyd Webbers 50th birthday on PBS and although I love his music I did not feel that Bandaras did it justice. There is only one Phantom ------ Michael Crawford! |
| Name: Paige Freeman Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Memphis, TN Time: 1999-12-03 06:10:04 Comments: NO one else but Michael Crawford should portray the Phantom ESPECIALLY in a movie production! I am horrified that ANYONE has suggested otherwise! Please note that MANY fans will be upset at such a loss if he is not casted! Paige Freeman |
| Name: J. P. Hatty Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Clinton Township MI (Detroit Suburb) Time: 1999-12-03 03:57:36 Comments: It's Michael Crawford or no one as "The Phantom of the Opera" ! It amazes me that Hollywood would consider anyone else for this role...But then, they managed to ruin "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Annie" among others. They just don't get it!!!! |
| Name: Cecilia
Ameal Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Argentine Time: 1999-12-02 12:28:43 Comments: HELLOOOOO!!!!! My name is Sandra Cecilia Ameal, I am thirty-two years old, and I like Michael Crawford's voice, and his interpretation in the theme "THE MUSIC OF THE NIGHT", and the duet that he did with Barbra Streisand too. I got the cd The Phantom, with the letters of the songs, and I would like to see the upcoming movie with the original musical and with its original casting, because I am in Argentine and it is very difficult for me to travel to Estados Unidos to see the musical. I hope to see it someday, and I whis Michael Crawford to come someday to Argentine to be able to meet him. Theatre is very important in Argentine, and next year there will be a lot of Musical Plays, as Chicago, Les Miserables or My fair Lady. I hope to see The Phantom in my country, with Michael... Goodbye |
| Name: Pamela S.
Eargle Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-02 01:08:58 Comments: My name is Pamela S. Eargle. I'm 25, and I have loved "THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA" for 13 years- since 1986 when I was 12 and bought the original London Cast recording. I fell in love with the show. One of the reasons is Mr. Crawford's performance. He IS the Phantom. What he does with the role is beyond words. All other Phantom Phans seem to feel the same. I saw Mark Jacoby perform the role on stage in person, and although he was wonderful, it was not the same. I have Colm Wilkinson, Ted Keegan, and Thomas James O'Leary's performances on tape. They are all good, but it's just NOT the same. I have NEVER nor will I EVER see anyone else in the role...If the movie is actually ever made, and Mr. Crawford is not in the role, I don't think I will go to see it. I know that most other Phans feel the same way...He won a Tony for the role. Most of the people who will go to see the movie are Phans, and want to see Mr. Crawford as the Phantom. It's not about chosing a box office name or Hollywod politics. Mr. Crawford should play the role because it is his and he deserves to play it- to preserve his magnificent performance forever! |
| Name: Loree Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: s.wales, Uk. Time: 1999-12-02 01:03:18 Comments: Hi my name is Loree, and i live in s.wales in the Uk. I never saw Michael in the role of phantom, he left just when i became interested in Andrew lloyd webbers stage show. I heard a song on the radio from the show, and immediately fell in love with the voice that i heard, i myself was quite surprised to discover it was Michael crawford behind those strong and powerful almost angelic tones. Michael portrays the character of the phantom with such feeling and compassion, he gives everything to this role, and i don't believe anyone could take that away from him. Please don't cast anyone else. I for one would never go and see this movie if anyone else is chosen. Michael crawford is the man who created the world wide interest in the phantom. Michael crawford made this show the success it i today. He was the original, and the only who can give this film version of the phantom the success it so deserves. THE ROLE IS THE MAN. Loree |
| Name: Susan Ruth Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Knoxville, TN Time: 1999-12-02 01:02:40 Comments: Looks great!! Super job for a super cause! |
| Name: Kat Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Seattle Time: 1999-12-01 22:06:11 Comments: I've followed this campaign every day for as long as it's been running. Thank you, everyone of you who have slaved and worried over this. You give me hope, though at present, there seems to be none. ****We're screwed now, but Andrew will be more so in the end. I wrote a speech on this scheme for my English class. Those thirty teens have stated that they will not see this film. But, I'm still upset. Sellout scum. New music? Has anyone thought about Mr. Crawford's veiw of this? The poor fellow! Michael and that Phans are what make this show. With both upset, no one wins. -Kat |
| Name: Alex Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Florida Time: 1999-12-01 17:10:18 Comments: This is a message more towards Lord Lloyd Webber, but it does go to the rest of the world who would agree with me about this. Dear Andrew Lloyd Webber: I have one rather disturbed comment to say directly to you. There are many things that come to mind, but I will tell you the one that sticks out the most. We all know that your beautiful and wonderfully talented Sarah Brightman who I would love to marry or just have a glimpse of, but we know that the true vision of the story of a grotesque man of the music falls in love witht eh precious angelic song of a soprano. Your vision was more focused on the soprano, but your music denies you of that. Somehow as you began to revive the centruy long tale, a phantom inside you created something that you were blind to see. You wanted her to be the star, but undoubtedly, the phantom became the star beneath your works. Something came over you that unexpected was saw in the viewers across the world, that you never understood. Christine has her many moments throughout the musical, but it is all surrounded by the presense and fog of the phantom. The audience knows that they are seeing THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, once they hear the OVERTURE, and MUSIC OF THE NIGHT. THINK OF ME means nothing to the audience, neither does PRIMA DONNA. But they all recall MUSIC OF THE NIGHT, PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, and the mystical MASQUERADE: ALL DEAL WITH THE PHANTOM! A phantom has been leashed out to the world with your music. Your music which has opened the hearts of billions across the world. Hell, I am in a wedding this coming up weekend and they want to see PHANTOM OF THE OPERA in NEW YORK on their Honeymoon. They chose YOU over a fabulous cruise to the mediteranian or something like that. Hell, they want MUSIC OF THE NIGHT (phantom's song) to be played during the actual ceremony. Two generations have learned to love your music. Your music that captures a spirit that is found in no other theatrical stage event. The point I am saying is that the Phantom is was everyone wants. You are a man of marketing. Actually that reminds me. Just last week I was given the unfortane news that CATS is being canceled on it's touring production to my city. It made front page of the newspaper. The city was shocked. THE MEMORY DIDN"T LAST FOREVER here. It ended. The memory of Michael Crawford will end too if he is canceled and denied of the role is so long deserves to play once more. The Phantom's role is meant to have passion, lust, mystery, and power. Antonio Banderes was simply fabulous in EVITA, but it doesn't look that open for his plyte to Phantom. CRAWFORD OWNS THE PHANTOM MASK, BANDERAS OWNS ZORRO MASK - keep that in mind. I recall Madonna not making quite a hit that it deserved over the choice of the actress to play Eva Peron. The world knows Madonna and the history she has. The world knows Crawford and in their minds, he is perfect. He is the one who made the Phantom the musical it became to be. The Phantom is a spirit that lives in all of us. Why change a masterpiece? Hell, lets go paint a new face on the MONA LISA? Or change the pictures of the SISTINE CHAPEL? You have created a masterpiece, why change it? Leonardo de Vinci would have our heads if we changed his Mona Lisa, and the world would have YOUR head "SERVED ON A SILVER TRAY" if you change your masterpiece. Think about SUNSET BOULEVARD, the world only wanted Glenn Close - you shut down the production due to the audience's "US" affect of someone else. Norma Desmond belongs to GLENN CLOSE, GRIZABELLA belongs to ELAINE PAIGE, CHRISTINE belongs to SARAH BRIGHTMAN, why won't you give the mask to its rightful person: MICHAEL CRAWFORD. Don't deny the world what it wants. "We gave you our money.... made you who you are... and now, how you've repaid us.... denied us of THE Phantom... We were bound to love him when we heard him sing..." Oh Andrew, listen to us, we beg for we want "Angel of music Michael Crawford, Grant to the world your glory! Angel of music hide no longer save from the Spaniard!..." "You alone (ALW) can make our plee take flight, Andrew, that's all we ask of!!!!" Should these commands be ignored, a disaster beyond your imagination will occur!! - the respect you always asked for will no longer ever exist. "It's over now, the music of the world...." Thank you for your time, and thank you for the Phantom that you created a decade ago. Only Crawford will be in our hearts, even if Banderes is in our eyes...remember that.. Only Crawford has touched our hearts.... Crawford is the one who touched our hearts.... again... CRAWFORD IS THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA |
| Name: Cathy A
Jackson Website: none Referred by: Yahoo! From: Medford Oregon Time: 1999-12-01 06:07:06 Comments: You know, I have not heard anyone mention the fact that the Phantom is not a young man! !! Michael Crawford is very much" THE PHANTOM" and at the right age,,,, It is beyond my comprehension that Loyd Weber could "even" consider any one else. The movie will be "a complete disaster" without Crawford.""As we all know"" God help us to save "The Phantom" AND AMEN TO THAT........................ |
| Name: Charity Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-12-01 04:09:38 Comments: Michael Crawford is the one Phantom of the opera |
| Name: TMCPMC Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Here Time: 1999-11-30 22:46:29 Comments: The Campaign has posted these messages here off our Webboard in preparation for our next mailing to Warner Bros. and The Really Useful Group. Thank you, TMCPMC Di, I've been following the same thought path as you. There have been MANY good Christines out there. And yet, whenever a production of the stage show is announced, the fans' first question is, "Who's playing the Phantom?" We all KNOW that a really good Phantom can MAKE the show. And a bad Phantom changes the entire feeling of the script. ALW just doesn’t want to admit to himself that the Phantom role is what draws the people in, whether it’s a movie or a stage show. I suspect that ALW has a deep subconscious hurt that he doesn’t admit, even to himself. His WIFE was snubbed at the Tonys. And this was AFTER he said that he wrote the music and the show for HER. Michael ran away with the acclaim and the glory. ALW wasn’t content to have his show win, he HAD TO BE RIGHT ABOUT HIS WIFE. So now he still claims the role of Christine is more important than the role of the Phantom. And if Christine is more important than the Phantom, WHY did ALW choose someone who is known only to a few show goers? He can’t expect her name to draw in the movie goers. SO, at LAST, we understand. Banderas is the movie draw because the role of the Phantom is unimportant. Any movie actor with a “pretty” face and a fan base can play the Phantom. Looks good on the marquee. ALW thinks Banderas will draw the crowd and his Christine will SAVE the show. But what made the show a success was the interpretation of the Phantom as played by MICHAEL CRAWFORD. Sad, isn’t it? . Ceeeceee Hey Ceeeceee, You know what? I am not done venting on this yet. (Think I ever will be?) But as I was attempting to clean house and work on having a “normal” Saturday afternoon, several thoughts occurred to me and there are points still to be made. I want to go back to 1990. Since Angie and I purchased a couple of copies of the Phantom movie script from 1990 and I sat down and read through it, several things have been bothering me. Only now have I really put together why the changes may have been made in that script, your post rang some bells. On the whole, I was delighted that the Libretto had remained intact and the scenes and story line for the most part were greatly unaltered from the original play. There were some changes though that I could not understand. Bear with me here. I am going to copy in a paragraph from our Open Letter to Andrew Lloyd Webber. “Few would argue that The Phantom of the Opera is the crown jewel of your brilliant career. After an $80 million run of over 1300 performances, Michael Crawford left the stage production in 1990 to star as the Phantom in the movie version. "Michaelmania," as the LA Times termed it, crowded the stage doors and resulted in major media coverage. Two seats to that final performance auctioned for $27,000. Hollywood was ready for a movie starring the original Phantom, and audiences were delighted because we knew that Andrew Lloyd Webber was in charge. We could trust you to bring Crawford's cherished interpretation of the Phantom to film.” Now, given the hoopla that surrounded Michael Crawford back in 1990, and the people (mostly women) who were coming back to see him over and over again....would you not if you were Andrew Lloyd Webber find out just what was making people tick and MAKE DARN SURE that whatever it was, it was going to be in the movie so people would go as nuts over your film as they did the play? Now I don’t know about anyone else, but I sure the heck didn’t go see Michael Crawford three times to see the chandelier fall. I would have gone more often but I couldn’t get tickets at the time and I was not as well to do as I am now. What made me tick? Well, I loved the play and still do, but I have GOT to be honest here, Michael Crawford had them laid out in the isles. He did and Webber darn well knows it. I know the stage manager at the Ahmanson, we are still good friends, and they all STILL talk about the hordes of people outside The Ahmanson performance after performance crowding around for a glimpse of Michael Crawford and maybe an autograph. It was pandemonium back there and Andrew Lloyd Webber knew perfectly well that people were at Michael Crawford’s feet in London, on Broadway, and finally it reached a fevered peak in Los Angeles. No one had ever seen ANYTHING like it and the stars themselves were drooling all over him. (Man have some of them got some short memories.) Back to the script. What I want to know is why did Webber take out the most sensuous portions of Michael Crawford’s performance, the parts the women were panting over, and replace them in the movie destined to be filmed in 1990? I mean MY GOD, “Music of the Night” for petes sake. Can you imagine if they had filmed it in 1990 with him hauling around a boat in a moat and lighting some ridiculous candles? What an uproar there would have been! People want to see the legendary staging of that scene. Michael draped on the portcullis, stalking and swaying Christine from behind. Can you imagine cutting out the staging of the most beautiful portion of the entire play? Then there is the bench scene. We have heard rumors for years that ALW was not pleased at Michael Crawford stealing that scene and taking the attention away from Christine while she is singing. But MY GOSH people loved it. I think that portion alone brought the hordes of women back and sold a million dollars worth of theatre tickets, I mean what else were you going to do on a quiet Saturday afternoon? LOL! So, I come back to your post here....the answer is clear isn’t it? Webber tried to unman him and turn the movie back into his original vision, “The Christine show.” Why else would Sarah be given “Music of the Night” to sing on the rooftop? That STILL infuriates me. She was never happy that it became Michael’s signature piece, was she? Webber also brings the Phantom to a human level and takes away even more of his magic, why else the physical fight in the cemetery with Raoul? The script even mentions they are "evenly matched." GIVE ME A BREAK!!!! It is the case of “The big get even” if you ask me. You know what? For the first time in a decade I am HAPPY they didn’t film in 1990, I would have been very disappointed in the changes made for Michael’s scenes. As far as Banderas, he is HUNGRY for this. He wants it and he has “big celebrity.” Warner Bros. is more comfortable with a big “box office” star and they think he will bring the women in droves. Webber has been a sellout for years and the stars who want to film his work flatter him. He never "got" Michael Crawford as the Phantom and probably as you say resents still that Sarah Brightman was not the one whose star shone. But what about the millions of people who have heard the original cast recording and already seen the original play? I don’t think any of the players are taking them into consideration. They are going to expect the same magic they loved in the play. An altered movie is not going to be cherished, and all that will be left is a sad, “We told you so”, and the loss of one of the greatest legendary performances of this century. Of course in the end we all lose. The performance that started the whole Phantom phenomenon is going to just be a memory and a piece of history. The average American who goes to see the movie will think that this is what all of us saw and raved about. Webber, Warner Bros. and Banderas will (maybe) make their millions and we will have to endure months of Banderas smirking on the TV shows owned by the Time-Warner machine touting how fabulous Banderas was as the Phantom. Personally if this comes to pass I am going to turn off my TV, read a lot of books, avoid billboards at all costs and wear out the Bob Hope video of “Music of the Night.” Yep, I am STILL furious about the whole entire mess. Darn it all. But you know what? Looking back I made some excellent friends, networked and got some fabulous tapes and recordings and was able to speak my mind to oh..... just a FEW MILLION PEOPLE! Now, how many ticked off people get the opportunity to do that? Of course I was defending A FANTASTIC PRODUCT!!! It was worth it. Thanks Ceeeceee for the EXCELLENT post. Doncha just LOVE the Internet and freedom of speech? Diane I'm always a few days behind & playing catch up. I've been reading "Recent News" and the posts. Here are a few thoughts. 1) One of God's greatest gifts is unanswered prayers. From the begining, we've all been afraid of what WB was going to do to this story. If what we are hearing is true, they were (1992) and are not going to film anything that remotely resembles the play. Since this appears to be the case, I don't want MC anywhere near this project. He would be having a miserable time trying to keep these people straight! They would destroy all the beauty MC (not ALW) created. Let AB & ALW kill the character on their own. If ALW were going to keep the story line as it was then I think MC would be more pro- active. MC's career is flying high. Any connection with this group and their mess would only slow his career. 2) WB, AB & ALW game plan Circumvent the theater experience and the many fans. They will not advertise this as the film version of the play. They will use the tag line "based on" to gain mileage and get around the comparisons. They will change the story and characters so much that comparisons between MC and AB performances will be mute. Different story angle, new music - how can you compare? It will be just another movie loosely based on the play. Make some quick bucks, get back your money, keep the play in the theatre - cover all angles. Whether it gets nominations or not is always political. Hollywood is set up like the mob.If Oscars were always given for good performances many of the winners would be very different. 3) Life will go on for WB, AB, ALW They couldn't care less about preserving art. MC's performance is preserved on video somewhere. WB will continue making movies (mostly bad ones), AB will continue to ape before the camera and make movies (mostly bad ones). ALW will continue making new plays, making movies of his plays (mostly bad ones) and stab other artists in the back. We don't have to buy! 4) So where are we now Everything we have done to this point has been incredible. We have decidedly slowed the progress of this movie and helped to promote and highlight MCs many talents before the consumer. Should we toss in the towel? No, never. This thing is far from being over. If what we are hearing is true, then we need to stop the movie from being made at all if we can.If WB, AB & ALW are going with a game plan similar to the one above, we need to be sure the campaign is not going used as a pawn by WB to promote this movie. Publicity can be a two edged sword. I remember reading in the news that lately, most movies make it or break it through word of mouth and some guy (I can't remember his name) who has a website in St. Louis(?) This website is growing and can be very instrumental in disrupting the whole movie PR process. Just saying they had to make changes in order for these people to perform points out that people will be paying their good money for something not up to par. melinda |
| Name: Teresa
Birngruber Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Austria Time: 1999-11-30 14:04:53 Comments: Hi! My name is Teresa Birngruber, I´m 19 years old and I come from Austria. I´m very glad you started this petition because I´m a great fan of Michael Crawford and I think that he has to be in the movie. Why do I think that Michael Crawford should get the role in the movie? Well, that´s clear for me. For I am very young, I never had the possibility to see Michael Crawford act, but I listened to the records of my mother, and the first time I heard his voice, I knew that there would never be another man who could sing like that. I really do adore him. He should get the role because he is the Phantom. Maybe there are other actors who can play this role, but there´s no one who can do it like Michael Crawford. I have really heard many other people in the role of the Phantom, but no one did fascinate me as Michael Crawford did. His voice is absolutely fantastic and his playing is so touching. The movie "Phantom of the Opera" without Michael Crawford cannot be as good as it would be with him. There´s only one Phantom in the world, and this Phantom is Michael Crawford. To here the wonderful notes of Andrew Lloyd Webber without the wonderful voice of Michael Crawford is impossible. There´s no other Phantom except Michael Crawford. I hope that this you will be successful with this petition and that we can soon welcome the movie with the fantastic Michael Crawford in the role of the Phantom. Yours, Teresa |
| Name: Kris Miller Website: Referred by: Viewing another Guestbook From: Lansing, Kansas Time: 1999-11-30 04:40:54 Comments: I think it would be very disrespectful to the great Michael Crawford if he weren't given the chance to do the role he not only originated but that the whole world knows him for. Bottom line: He is the Phantom. Hollywood should give him a chance - just because he's not a legendary Hollywood film star doesn't mean that he's not perfect for the role. I would probably boycott the film and tell others to do the same if some Hollywood leading man was given the role instead of Michael. This whole situation reminds me of other casting blunders like George Clooney as Batman and the possible casting of Nicholas Cage as the next Superman. I think both of those are obvious casting blunders, not that I dislike those two as actors - they just weren't right for those particular roles. Michael Crawford just makes the most sense to me. |
| Name: Erin Mark Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Indiana Time: 1999-11-30 00:31:37 Comments: I like Antonio and everything but as the Phantom??? Is there a point to going to see anyone else in Michael Crawfords part? I don't even want to see the play butchered by this. I like the actor but hey give credit where it is due...Michael needs to do this part. He IS the Phantom. No one ever did or could pass him up in that area. |
| Name: Aura
Silversky Website: Aura's Silly Role Playing Stuff Referred by: Net Search From: Indiana Time: 1999-11-29 22:28:09 Comments: I like your page and I really would like Michael Crawford to star in a movie if it's made. Otherwise what kind of Phantom movie would it be? It wouldn't be the same without him after all he makes that character great! |
| Name: Deanie Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Virginia and New York Time: 1999-11-29 20:56:39 Comments: After catching up with the recent news, I'm white knuckling this keyboard right now. Obviously the movie will no longer resemble the play in any form, shape, sight or sound. And since it isn't being produced by Disney or George Lucas ....I doubt there will be anything cute about it either. The young lady chosen to be Christine is way to young, Mr. Banderas is way too unremarkable in voice and personality.....I'm just so confused. Did Hollywood think I was so stupid????? Oh, I get it, it's Lucy and Ricky Go See The Phantom :) NOT. Lucy and Ricky would have done a better job putting this production on with Lucy's Fine Arts Ladies Club......geeeeesh. I honestly believe for every entry to your guestbook there are 19,000 people who share the passion of the campaign, that should come out to about 56 million? I think I remember that being the ticket buying population of the stage performance? I believe that's also the total WHO WILL NOT BE WATCHING THE GREED VERSION of this beloved play. Hmmmmm, I smell box office disaster. One can only hope :( Therefore, I totally perceive a new campaign on the horizon. Boycotting the movie will only give the Hollywood boys great negative (but-we'll-take-whatever-we- can-get)publicity. My idea is that we convince the backers of all children's charities to produce a stage to video version, STARRING MICHAEL CRAWFORD AND SARAH BRIGHTMAN on Broadway. I know alot of "old farts" who'll pay 5k a seat for that event......so much for the age factor, eh? Of course, the vid sales would continue to benefit kids. Not only would it satisfy the stage experience for those of us who've seen the play, with Michael or any other qualified Erik-other-than-AB, but it will be classic in scope!!!!!! I'm talking generations to come. So, by virtue of what I've been reading on the message boards, recent news and other fine contributions to the campaign....don't give up the ship!!!!! Don't get mad, get even :) Oh, I love that quote, thanks Ivana :))))))) Okay, the keyboard is smokin' now.....better put the fire out. Love to all, Deanie>>>>that which doth not kill me makes me stonger<<<<< |
| Name: Alex Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Florida Time: 1999-11-29 17:16:49 Comments: I recieved a newspaper article from LONDON that Andrew Lloyed Webber has chosen ANTONIO BANDERAS as the Phantom, and a little 18 year girl from his latest music WHISTLE DOWN THE WIND - this is obserd!!! An 18 year old girl can not play Christine!!! I CAN"T BELIEVE THIS!!!! MICHEAL CRAWFORD IS THE BEST OF THE BEST!!!! |
| Name: William
Ackerman Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: ohio Time: 1999-11-29 16:59:29 Comments: I can not stress enough how excellent Michal Crawford is. If they even think of using that out of tune twit, Antonio Banderis, i will see to only seee the film when it comes to video |
| Name: Beth Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ohio, US Time: 1999-11-29 15:44:47 Comments: I almost choked when I heard the news about Banderas being cast!!! What were the producers thinking? I'm a 16-year-old Phanatic, and I, in my 16 years, have never heard of a studio chosing someone so obviously inappropriate for a role. Michael Crawford is the perfect phantom. When I look at him, and watch, I see Erik, the phantom. When I see Antonio trying to sing the songs, it makes me want to cry, hearing the music butchered in such a manner. I'm telling everyone I know, and hoping that I can help this effort. If there are enough people, and I think there are, we can correct this disgusting mistake before it is filmed. |
| Name: Stacy
A. Applin Website: Referred by: Lycos From: San Diego,California Time: 1999-11-29 05:56:25 Comments: I,too,heard the news or rumors of this movie in the works,and I feel the same.Only Michael Crawford can be cast as Erik,the Phantom.He is not only more ideal, but he fits the character so well.I was first introduced three years ago from listening to a friend's cd with the orginial cast and fell under its spell of love and intrigue.And I recently saw the play and I can't wait till it comes back to my town.Antonio Banderas is a fine actor,but he is no Phantom.Nor is he,or can he replace the work that Michael Crawford has done.I do not mind whoever plays Christine,but I do when it comes the main character.I would be glad to help all that I can to support this cause of artistic values.We are a part of the public and we do have our say.When Crawford is in the dressing room,he is Micheal.But on stage......The Phantom comes to life! Thank you. |
| Name: russell Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: OHIO, USA Time: 1999-11-29 03:41:49 Comments: Warners and Webber are going to film the Phantom of the Opera. So far, so good. Film, being a different medium than theatre, requires changes. No problem. Ok. Let me get this straight. According to recent news and Antonio Banderas, who seems to have appointed himself chief spokesperson for this project, the changes are: 1) The film will no longer resemble (in any shape or form) anything remotely close to the play which generated megabucks and devoted fans. Conclusion: Warners and Webber are not capable of capturing this piece on film 2) It will no longer be filmed as an opera. Dialog will be added and expanded. The musical score will be changed and added when needed. Conclusion: When you can't film something - punt. Make drastic changes 3) The musical score will be changed because the proposed leads can't sing the original score. Conclusion: Too many people have the CD or heard the score in the play. Don't invite comparisons. 4) The Phantom character will be downgraded because Webber no longer considers the phantom to be central to the story. It is the story of Christine. Conclusion: They picked the wrong guy to play the phantom. Don't invite comparisons 5) The phantom will now be in his 30s rather than his 40s or 50s (according to the original story). He will now be a younger father figure. Christine will have to be played by a teenager rather than a young woman in her early 20s Conclusion: Our audience is stupid. They won't notice. Ditto #4 6) The phantom will look as though he has spent time on the beach and will have a thick Spanish accent. Conclusion: Our audience is stupid. They won't notice. Ditto #4 7) I could keep going but the conclusions will be the same as #6 so why belabor the point. Warners and Webber should rename the film "Christine of the Opera", change the setting to Spain, have the phantom disfigured by a bull in the ring, hire positive reviews by unknown critics and be done with it. |
| Name: tayler
leigh Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: southern california Time: 1999-11-29 00:18:25 Comments: michael crawford is the best phantom that will ever live!!! antonio is a poo!!good luck to michael!!! |
| Name: Hayley Marie
Christine Witthans Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Minneapolis, MN Time: 1999-11-28 23:43:24 Comments: Dear Sirs and Madames, Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Hayley Marie Christine Witthans. I am 13 years old, Irish, Catholic, female, an opera singer(currently taking voice lessons), a piano player, a great fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber's, Sarah Brightman's and I am truly in love with Michael Crawford and his captivating voice. I am truly looking forward to the making of the film version of this great musical, and I want very, very badly for the title role to go to Michael Crawford. When it first came out, he put his heart into it greatly, working very well with the wonderful Sarah Brightman. But now Antonio Bandares and John Travolta had to get a piece of the action and they totally screwed it up! And Andrew Lloyd Webber is making a big mistake giving the film role to anyone but Michael Crawford! I would love to help you in any way that I can to get his role back for him. I've seen the musical once and I know that the role is perfect for Michael. I've even made a petition drive so everyone can sign it, and I am greatly determined to win the role for Michael, for his sake, for his fans' sake, for Sarah B.'s sake, for A. Lloyd Webber's sake, for our sake, for the sake of the world, and for Erik's sake(may he be in eternal happiness). So, please, if you have any work for me to do, or if I could become part of your campaign, please let me know. I'd love to do anything for the sake of Michael Crawford! Sincerely, Hayley Marie Christine Witthans |
| Name: Steve
Waller Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Cornwall, UK Time: 1999-11-28 23:38:13 Comments: Have just discovered your web-site! We are full agreement with your mission to see MC as a film phantom. Even though we haven't yet managed to see the play [living in deepest darkest Cornwall, UK], we're hooked on Michael's recordings, so good luck in claiming his role back film-wise! Hope this helps, best wishes Chrissie & Steve, Warleggan, Bodmin Moor, Cornwall. |
| Name: Simply a fan with wonderful
memories Website: don't have one Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: London Time: 1999-11-28 20:58:40 Comments: I just wish that everyone would follow Cary Grant's model when offered the role of Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady. When offered the role Grant replied, "Not only will I not take the role, but if you don't cast Rex Harrison I won't go to see the movie." There are just some roles that cannot be recast and Michael Crawford in Phantom of the Opera is one of those roles. |
| Name: Terry Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: New Brunswick, NJ Time: 1999-11-28 18:31:11 Comments: My Aunt is involved in this campaign and asked me to look at the web site and tell you this story. When I was interviewing my sorority sisters with the question, "Who's your favorite singer?" many of them answered "Michael Crawford." "He's a great singer. He's the Phantom." That's what college students at Rutgers think!!!!!! |
| Name: Nicky Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: England Time: 1999-11-28 15:22:55 Comments: I was reading the express, on the 11/9/99, when i saw the words "Set to be Playing opposite Antonio Banderas" I nearly got on the phone to Warner Bros.. How can some company not recognise the amazing talents of Micheal? Since then i have been miffed to say the least. Whatever are Warner bros.thinking? Even me, being 14.. yes 14 knows a great man when she hears one, so why can't men and women of 30+? It's quite beyond me, i am shocked, and i'm dismayed. |
| Name: Laura Walker Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: San Diego Time: 1999-11-28 15:01:54 Comments: Lets make a movie. Pick your man and move on. |
| Name: Cesare Pascual Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: California Time: 1999-11-28 09:37:18 Comments: There's only one man that can play the phantom and that's Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Leah Geyser Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: California Time: 1999-11-28 05:03:54 Comments: Hi Aunt Diane! something about Michael Crawford and a movie. (hey you said I had to put something but you didn't say what!!!) Well, I think he should be in the movie. Leah, 11 years old |
| Name: Jonathon La
Chapelle Website: RENT! Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Michigan Time: 1999-11-28 03:07:36 Comments: I liked Antonio Banderas in EVITA--quite a bit, in fact. When I first heard he was set to take on the role of the Phantom, I was upset, just like everyone else. I heard about Antonio's performance at Lord Lloyd Webber's birthday celebration a while back. I started thinking, "Maybe he could do the role." I just watched the video clip of him performing. I had to restrain myself. The clip made me physically ill. I understand (but don't agree) with having star power in a movie. However, to cast Antonio Banderas in the role of the phantom would be a travesty. The man's voice is NOT suited for this role. To me, this letter should not be necessary. If the producers, etc. of Warner Bros. or wherever would just listen to Antonio singing songs from the show, it should be OBVIOUS that he MUST NOT be cast as the phantom. |
| Name: Peggy Malouse Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New Orleans, Louisiana Time: 1999-11-27 02:57:31 Comments: How can the "powers that be" in Hollywood believe that anyone other than Michael Crawford could possibly portray the role of the Erik/The Phantom in this movie version. With his romantic yet powerful performance, he has forever changed the way people think about the telling of this story. They obviously don't realize just how loyal Michael's fans are. I cannot believe that they actually want Antonio Banderas instead of Michael!!! I caught his "singing performance" on the PBS special for Andrew Lloyd Weber's birthday celebration. He is not horrible, but he is NO Michael Crawford. He lacks the vocal power and emotional depth necessary for this role. I hope they come to their senses and cast the right person, or I will be staying clear of the theater for this one. --P.Malouse |
| Name: carol
grenko Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: davenport, ia Time: 1999-11-27 02:30:46 Comments: michael crawford should be cast in the lead of phantom is a movie version is made. |
| Name: Laura
Algranti Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: So. Calif. Time: 1999-11-26 23:03:40 Comments: Well, who else *could* be The Phantom!? |
| Name: Kathy Wappler Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Pittsburgh, PA Time: 1999-11-26 20:03:05 Comments: I feel Michael Crawford should play the Phantom. |
| Name: Sylvia
Galvan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-11-26 03:04:14 Comments: Hello! Happy Thanksgiving! I would love to see Michael in the Phantom Movie. I can't imagine Antonio or anybody else doing that movie!! I don't think Antonio has the voice of Michael!!!! No way!!! I support this campaign! Good Luck!!! Sylvia G. Galvan |
| Name: TMCPMC Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Here Time: 1999-11-25 21:24:59 Comments: The following has been posted here for the next mailing to Warner Bros. and RUG. Thank you, TMCPMC Hi Marilynn, I have e-mailed you privately as you requested. As far as being discouraged. Well, this campaign has always had its highs and lows. We have always known that this was a long shot although why that now is, is difficult to understand. Warner Bros. thought Michael Crawford was a big enough name for their film in 1990, he is even better known to audiences now. Through his Emmy nominated PBS special and concert tours more people than ever before have been exposed to him and know him as the Phantom. Also this campaign has been read about by MILLIONS of people. The Los Angeles Times article was syndicated. It was read by a million and a half people in the LA area alone, we know of twenty other newspapers that also ran it, some of them were MAJOR. I have no idea how many read about us in USA Today, but I have been told that the Big Breakfast show we were on in England is the largest morning show viewed in the UK; not to mention we received major press in newspapers and on BBC radio there. An awesome accomplishment for a group that hasn't even succeeded yet don't you think? Of course, we were pushing a FANTASTIC product, one that NO ONE SHOULD HAVE EVER HAD TO SELL. Michael Crawford is above ALL of this and it still hurts me that this campaign ever came into being. For myself, from the very beginning I was told that this effort would have no effect and it would do absolutely no good. If we had given up at every naysayer, the Los Angeles Times article would not have happened, USA Today, the BBC interviews and all the other media attention that this campaign has managed to garner. We have brought Michael Crawford’s name back into the story and the perfect example is Banderas being asked in recent interviews about Michael Crawford and us. I hope he is ready for what may lay ahead if he really does this picture, he better pray his voice and performance holds up in comparison, the ride could get very rough. So what is a success and how does one measure it? If I took on only the battles I was assured of winning I would be a very small and shallow individual in my opinion. If I quit in the face of public disapproval and did not stay true to my beliefs I could not look myself in the mirror. It does seem daunting I suppose, but the alternative was to sit at home unhappy with the decision and moan about what could have been. We chose to try to do something about it and this has been an amazing effort, historical I am certain. Disappointing news? Just another day in the Crawford Crusades. We have been here countless times before..... rumor after endless rumor, seems there is no real end in sight. There has been no further word on casting this weekend; I am beginning to really question the way The Express does business and reports "news." Peter Sheridan completely embarrassed me in the feature he did of us, although it was very campaign supportive I was misquoted for the most part. I really think they are an undependable source and I am beginning to doubt the news. Here at the campaign we are learning that nothing is written in stone in this story until the signed contract is announced. We may all be on Social Security and Medicare by then..... Don't count on a video, we have been told it cannot happen while Warner Bros. holds the movie rights, it is a dream. Maybe someday decades from now RUG can release any videotape they may be holding of Michael Crawford's performances, if they do they are going to make a FORTUNE. But more important they will be releasing to the public the record of a shining legendary moment in theatre history. I suppose we will all just have to wait it out, other than being proactive in this campaign I really don't see many other valid options. Has it been worth it? Bet if you ask any member of this campaign who has been closely involved and worked their hearts out on this for all this time their answer would be ABSOLUTELY. Even if we fail, we tried, and this may not be about world hunger, the AIDS epidemic or world peace, but it was meaningful enough to each of us to give it our very best effort for over a year and a half. Must mean something special to us, don't you think? Of course once taken on we had to. Michael Crawford never asked for this, we threw his name out there for worldwide scrutiny and once begun we did it with as much class and dignity as all of us could summon. We made some mistakes but on the whole I am very, very proud of this campaign and all its members; every one of our accomplishments were won with hard work, tenacity, imagination and love. In the end of the day each of us are going to sleep just fine with whatever they decide to do. If they decide to butcher this thing than HECK we just won't go see their movie. We will grieve but I know I will be able to live with myself. Gosh I know we all tried.... Michael Crawford was, is, and always will be the Phantom of the Opera for me, for us and for this corner of the Internet. He reigns here and we are ALWAYS going to support him no matter how this story ends. My first small web page was started to show him support, this unbelievable group will continue on and we are not finished yet. We are still writing the history here, don't you think? All my best to you Marilynn, Di : This must be a discouraging time for everyone who has worked so hard to accomplish the goals of this campaign. : However, in a way a goal has been accomplished in that Michael's name, through the publicity and letters, has : been associated with the role of the Phantom and therefore, in millions of people's minds and hearts, he is and : will always be the Phantom. It's sad that his performance will not be saved on film for those of us who were never : fortunate enough to see Michael in the original production. Maybe someday we'll all be able to pool our resources : and buy the rights from ALW and make our own video :))) Well, one can dream. Thank you to all who have worked : so hard for so many years to make Michael the Phantom-he is and always will be!! : Di, would you please email me privately? I'd like to ask you a question. Marilynn |
| Name: Jane
A. Whitmoyer Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Annandale, Virginia Time: 1999-11-25 15:03:24 Comments: In my opinion, Michael Crawford is the only one in the world who can do the role of the "Phantom of the Opera" justice. He was a smash on Broadway and Los Angeles. I do not believe the movie will be as much as a success with another person in the role. |
| Name: Francesco
Moretti Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Italy Time: 1999-11-25 10:42:59 Comments: I think it would be a great injustice to make Antonio Banderas as the Phantom, or any athor performer, instead of Michael Crawford. I am Italian, I've never seen "The Phantom of the Opera" on stage, but I really LOVE Lloyd Webber's musicals and I've got all of them on CD and video. I didn't like the performance of Antonio Banderas in the "Royal Albert Hall Celebration" singing the Phantom, and as all of you I think that Michael IS the ONLY performer that can be the Phantom on screen as he has been it on stage for many years. I wait for news on your web site every day. You' re doing a GREAT GREAT GREAT job. But...I'm not agree to boycott any movie version with any other actor as the Phantom. I've been waiting the film for so long time that I'll see it in any case when it will be realised. One day, however, I hope to see "The Phantom of the Opera" as "Il Fantasma dell'Opera", on an Italian stage, with Italian lyrics, with an Italian company. Best wishes, Francesco. |
| Name: Carina
Rios Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: USA Time: 1999-11-25 04:56:40 Comments: As a die hard Micheal Crawford fan ... I think it would be BLASPHEMY to yhave anyone else be the phantom..... |
| Name: Simon
Roots Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Britain Time: 1999-11-25 04:54:12 Comments: Michael Crawford is THE Phantom - to put someone else in the movie would just be plain sacrilege. |
| Name: Bruce Graham Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: USA Time: 1999-11-24 23:33:39 Comments: Use Michael and Sarah Bruce Graham |
| Name: Jennifer Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Long Beach MS Time: 1999-11-24 15:30:32 Comments: I love the phantom ever since I was 5 or 6. I am now 15 and still love it. I'm doing drum & bugle corps and play a show that involved a musical (not Phantom). I loved it, now I want to play for brodway or anykind of production. Phantom has realy change my life even though I have a lot left of it. |
| Name: Sylvia
Galvan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Calexico, CA Time: 1999-11-24 06:05:29 Comments: I would love to see Michael Crawford in the movie. I can't imagine the movie with anyone else!!! |
| Name: Tanya Website: N/A Referred by: Yahoo! From: PA Time: 1999-11-24 00:36:09 Comments: I truely hope if they do do a Phantom movie they pick Michael. In my opion he is one of the best Phantoms ever to walk on stage. His preformance is breathtaking. |
| Name: Sherry
Litteral Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Dayton Ohio Time: 1999-11-23 09:05:42 Comments: Dear Warner Bros. I just wan't to say, I have been wondering for sometime now why Michael Crawford's original Phantom of the Opera has never been captured on film as so many other musicals have (Cats, Les Miserables etc.) Now with this chance that Warner Bros. has to make this film with the one person who put more heart and moved more audiences around the world than anyone else, who has ever played the role isn't going to be given the chance that he has rightfully earned. I think it is a real injustice to everyone. I don't understand why Warner Bros. doesn't want the very best production, not to mention the money making advantages to having Michael Crawford back in a role that he has mastered like knowone else could or ever will. It's a real disappointment to me and I to know many others. It's like having someone paint over the Sistine Chapel after the Masterpiece has already been done. Sincerely, Sherry Litteral |
| Name: Henriette
Schwartz Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Long Beach Time: 1999-11-23 00:42:23 Comments: Michael Crawford is the only person who can portray The Phantom. I would not see the movie if he were not in it. |
| Name: Amie
Pinho Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego, CA Time: 1999-11-23 00:39:15 Comments: I just saw the San Diego Production of the Phantom last night....that Phantom was AWESOME! It just reminds me that the movie needs to be made and NEEDS to be with Michael Crawford...period...he is the only Phantom...not Antonio Banderas (I don't believe the Phantom is from Spain), John Travolta (can't sing if his life depended on it), or any other Hollywood big name...sure they can get a big Hollywood name, but they would be disapointing Phantom Fans everywhere that have been waiting for Michael Crawford to make this movie forever. Please Mr. Lloyd-Webber, cast Michael Crawford...he is the only true Phantom! Thank you. |
Name: Scott Milham |
| Name: Leoni
Benghiat Website: Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement From: South Africa Time: 1999-11-22 19:21:27 Comments: As a South African fan of Michael Crawford, the movie of the Phantom of the Opera is probably my only hope of seeing this great singer in action in what is, to me, the greatest singing role of his career. I cannot imagine that the movie producers would even consider anyone else for the role of the Phantom. Michael Crawford is the obvious choice because he made the Phantom acceptable to us, he romanticised the role and he made it his own. In short, he invented the musical Phantom of the Opera on stage and album and he should be the one inventing the same role on film. Please, please, please, Warner Bros, don't give the role to anyone else but the original Phantom = Michael Crawford. |
| Name: K.
Michiel Cavuoti Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Abilene, TX Time: 1999-11-22 13:59:46 Comments: Dear Sirs; As a huge fan of the stage musical Phantom of the Opera I can see that you have an amazing opportunity. When Phantom is made into a film you can create a masterpiece; an instant classic; a movie that will go down in history as the definitive version of the stage play. How is that? it is actually very simple. Cast Michael Crawford in the role he invented and made his own, as the Phantom. There are literally millions of people world-wide who are familiar with him as the voice of the Phantom. He is the one, the only Phantom of the Opera. Make a movie we will all be proud of, Michael Crawford The Phantom of the Opera. I live in Abilene, TX. My husband and I have seen POTO five times in London, once each in New York and Los Angeles, and twice on tour, Denver and Dallas. We will see it for our tenth and probably last time, in London January 5th, 2000. We were never fortunate enough to see Michael in his role. I am sick that it looks like Antonio Banderas will play the role in the movie. If I had not bought these tickets back in May, I would not be seeing it again. In fact as many of us have vowed I will never see another Andrew Lloyd Webber production of anything. I can't believe he sold out. The only exception would be if one of two things happens: he comes to his senses and casts Michael Crawford in the film; or he films Michael Crawford in the stage production and releases it as he did Cats last year. If he were to do that, I wouldn't care if he cast Bozo the Clown as the Phantom in the movie. I hope that our comments do not fall on deaf ears, though I fear the die is already cast. Sincerely, K. Michiel Cavuoti |
| Name: Brandon Rueda Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: California Time: 1999-11-22 00:20:19 Comments: Michael Crawford is the ONLY person suitable for the role of the Phantom. It would be unjust for anyone else to portray that role. Michael Crawford IS the Phantom! |
| Name: Kat Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Seattle Time: 1999-11-22 00:05:45 Comments: Wow. I think I need to vomit. I just read the latest reports in recent news on casting. I've followed this for so long with such blind hope. When the damned thing comes out we wont be able to ignore this ugly mark in music history, we will be mocked, blatantly reminded and caged by the film. It's going to hurt for a while, but I am going to laugh when the film flops. My biggest fear in the past few years has been going to see a film and seeing a Phantom preview with Antonio. I shiver, I truly do. Michael Crawford and the Phans have been horribly betrayed. And, as I can never forgive Christine for abandoning Erik, I can never forgive Lloyd Webber for abandoning Michael. I'm sorry friends, it looks like it's over now the Music of the Night. -Again, Kat |
| Name: Ken Bruns Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego, CA Time: 1999-11-21 22:09:55 Comments: I was living in los Angeles when Michael Crawford starred in "The Phantom of the Opera". I don't ever remember another actor nor another production that caused such a sensation, and I have seen a lot of theatre. All of us who were privileged enough to have seen his brilliant performance have expected that he would star in the film that would surely be made of this very successful show. It has been delayed long enough. Audiences are ready to buy tickets, CDs, tapes, and the videos that will follow. But now the rumors are circulating that Mr. Crawford is not to repeat his amazing, award-winning performance. Instead, the story and music are to be changed to suit the limited vocal ability of a mediocre movie star. What is the point? Why would Michael Crawford, who is filling concert venues across half of the world, be ignored in favor of a pretty boy who can't sing? I can see cutting a bit of the libretto but not the best songs in the show. If the actor can't sing "Music of the Night", then he has no business playing the Phantom. He's trying to play 'way out of his league. I for one will skip seeing the film if that's the best they can do. |
| Name: Howie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ral., NC Time: 1999-11-21 20:19:38 Comments: Hi, Just thought I would put in my two cents worth. I am not a big theater fan nor a fan of Michael Crawford...at least I wasn't until my wife changed my mind. I have always thought he had a good voice and was surprised to learn from her that there was a chance he would not be playing this role in the movie that is being planned. I mean, who the heck would they replace a voice like that with? There has to be some mistake. My wife tells me they are thinking to use Antonio Bandaras for Pete's sake. I mean this IS a musical right? They have to be at least planning on using someone who can actually sing to play the part...and isn't Zorro the wrong race, accent, age for this? And why would they want to replace Michael Crawford anyway? Thank you for your time. |
| Name: Kristen
Diana Niles Website: Referred by: AOL From: New York, currently living in Virginia Time: 1999-11-21 19:38:03 Comments: Michael Crawford is the reason "The Phantom of the Opera" was so successful, he is not only a gifted and talented actor &singer, but a lso a wonderful person. If he wishes to do so, I think he should be offered the opportunity to play the Phantom in the up coming movie. |
| Name: Vicki
Nelson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Yuma, Az Time: 1999-11-21 19:36:52 Comments: PLEASE, strongly consider the facts, Michael Crawford, is The Phantom of the Opera! He is the Original Phantom, and simply put, by far the best. This Phantom is the one who inspired me to fly to London to his performance, again to New York where I was delighted for the second time. And yes, there was the third work of art in Los Angeles. If Crawford ever sang again ,as the Phantom, I would fly around the world to catch his spell binding performance. The CD plays as I drive, and the PBS tape is played often in our home. This degree of loyalty and admiration for his God given talents, runs much deeper than that of a 'fan'. The world needs to see and hear Michael Crawford, there are so many who have not experienced this marvelous voice and will never see or hear the most beautiful music produced thus far. I am Vicki Dokos-Nelson, I live in Yuma, Az. Just celebrated by 55 th birthday in October! For years my friends and I have discussed how wonderful it would be to have a new "Phantom of the Opera", with Michael Crawford. We can only pray that this comes to fruition. Vicki |
| Name: Kristen
Diana Niles Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-11-21 19:33:03 Comments: My name is Kristen Diana Niles, and I am 19 yrs old. I am a huge fan of Michael Crawford and strongly believe that Michael should be cast in the role of the Phantom in the up coming movie "The Phantom of the Opera," if Michael would like to be in the movie. I believe this for several reasons, but most importantly because Michael IS the Phantom, If it were not for his interpretation I do not believe the show would have been as successful as it was and still is. His voice and his presence is the essence of the play. The idea that the role would be offerd to anyone else is proposterous. As a member of the Michael Crawford International Fan Club I respect and admire the man behind the mask and believe he is a truely wonderful man and gifted actor. Sincerely, Kristen Diana Niles :) |
| Name: Michelle
Osborne Website: Crysania's Worlds Referred by: From a Friend From: Syracuse, NY Time: 1999-11-21 18:57:34 Comments: I have been keeping close tabs on the progress of this campaign for several months now. Although I am a college student and have very little free time, I have been trying to help out in every way possible. But the more I talk about it, the more frustrated I get. Can't these people at Warner Brothers see what they're doing? Don't they have any clue? Is Andrew Lloyd Webber so blind and deaf that he would destroy this masterpiece in one fell swoop? I just can't even begin to understand why they feel Antonio Banderas would suit the role of the Phantom. He can't sing, and he doesn't have the sensual lure that the Phantom *needs* to be convincing. If they think the draw is his name and that he has "pretty" face, then they are *so* wrong. His "name" is not associated with musical theatre. And his face doesn't matter for this role. The *logical* choice is Michael Crawford...he is synonymous with the role...He *is* the role...He helped create and shape the role when the production first began...Obviously Andrew Lloyd Webber trusted him then. Why he thinks he can't create the same magic now is completely beyond me! I just remained so baffled and hurt over this entire thing. If this movie is made without Michael Crawford, very few people will ever see it and it will be one gigantic flop...And forever, Andrew Lloyd Webber will be remembered as the composer who destroyed his own masterpiece... |
| Name: Walt Kord Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Texas Time: 1999-11-21 17:20:19 Comments: I believe that Antonio Banderas is a good actor but I believe even stronger that we need someone great for the part of the Phantom and, in my opinion, that would be Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Bill Frey Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Apollo, PA Time: 1999-11-21 13:25:33 Comments: My wife has been going on for months about this movie. I didn't understand why she was so upset until she made me watch the PBS special where Antonio Banderas sang the title song from Phantom. Antonio Banderas should stick to non-musical roles and leave the musical ones to people such as Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Kate Website: N/A Referred by: From a Friend From: New York Time: 1999-11-21 13:00:48 Comments: I have never known an entertainer to stir such emotions as Michael Crawford. I have never heard a singer with a voice that held angels behind it like Michael Crawford. I have never seen a role in theatre or in movies so perfectly portrayed at Michael Crawford's role as the Phantom. I have never in my wildest dreams believed that Michael Crawford might not be hired to play the Phantom again. It is too horrible to be true. Michael Crawford IS the Phantom. He is the one who will make a movie of epic proportions. When I think of Michael in the Phantom movie I think of some apocalyptic Phantom of the Opera!! Michael will soar, but he will not over power the other characters. Part of his genius is his ability to perform so gloriously and be so big, but not cast a shadow over everyone else. You may say he did to Sarah Brightman, preventing her from winning a Tony, but that's not so. Sarah Brightman was a victim of Broadway prejudice. They didn't want her playing Christine on Broadway, and that's why she didn't win the Tony. Please hire Michael Crawford as the Phantom. He is the true Phantom, the only Phantom, and the Phantom everyone wants to see. Kate |
| Name: Shepherd
Family - Derek, Madeline, Lee, Jamie, Lucy,Kate Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Sussex, England Time: 1999-11-21 12:04:16 Comments: We would like to add our voices to the growing campaign to allow Michael Crawford to recreate 'The Phantom' on film. We have seen many different versions of the role and no other actor has come close to the sublime interpretation of Michael Crawford. To 're-work' the story to accommodate the abilities of Antonio Banderas would be a travesty. By all means cast him as Raoul, but give the part of the Phantom to Michael Crawford. That combination could be electrifying! Andrew Lloyd Webber and Warner Brothers presumably think they will make more money by casting Banderas as the Phantom. We truly believe it will be a costly mistake. They are seriously underestimating Consumer Power. Michael Crawford MUST play the Phantom - it's the only decision that makes sense! |
| Name: TMCPMC Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Right here. Time: 1999-11-21 11:29:41 Comments: Welcome to our 30th guestbook!! We appreciate and thank EVERYONE who comes here and signs their messages in support for Michael Crawford to star as the Phantom in the upcoming film, "The Phantom of the Opera." (Is this the biggest "duh" in the history of movies or what?) Scuz us for the editorial comment...... but (shrug) we *are* only human! :) When this guestbook is full we will hit 3,000 entries! Our thanks to all! The Michael Crawford Phantom Movie Campaign |