Phantom of the Opera (1943)

Based on Gaston Leroux’s novel and the 1925 film starring Lon Chaney, Phantom of the Opera (1943) is an American romantic horror film directed by Arthur Lubin. After revealing that he is losing the use of his left hand, violinist Erique Claudin is dismissed from the Paris Opera House. Despite facing financial struggles, he secretly funds voice lessons for Christine Dubois, a young soprano to whom he is devoted. Meanwhile, Inspector Raoul Dubert pressures Christine to leave the Opera and marry him, while famous opera baritone Anatole Garron hopes to win her heart. Though Christine considers both men good friends, she does not openly express her feelings towards them. In a desperate attempt to earn money, Claudin submits his self-written piano concerto for publication.

However, after weeks pass without any response, he becomes anxious and visits the publisher, Maurice Pleyel, to inquire about its status. Pleyel’s rudeness prompts Claudin to believe that he is being neglected and accuses him of trying to steal his work. Unbeknownst to Claudin, visiting musician Franz Liszt had been playing and endorsing the concerto in the office. In a fit of rage, Claudin strangles Pleyel. Georgette, the publisher’s assistant, retaliates by throwing etching acid at Claudin’s face in an effort to stop him. This causes permanent scarring which leads Claudin to cover his disfigurement with a stolen prop mask from the Opera house. Now wanted for murder, he seeks refuge in the sewers beneath the Opera and takes on a new identity as the Phantom.