WillSushyMedia
This movie was so-so. It had it's moments, but wasn't the greatest.
Sienna-Rose Mclaughlin
The movie really just wants to entertain people.
Delight
Yes, absolutely, there is fun to be had, as well as many, many things to go boom, all amid an atmospheric urban jungle.
ccthemovieman-1
I heard three of these songs on television and thought this must be a super tape, so I bought the VHS when it came out. Unfortunately, the three songs I heard and saw on TV were the best of the lot. However, that's not imply this isn't a good concert, just the great one I anticipated. I have also seen Crawford in a Las Vegas show and he's quite the showmanThere is a lot of talk between some of the songs, too much at times, but Crawford is an interesting guy and humorous in his storytelling.The two songs I liked the best and heard first on TV were "Not Too Far From Here" and "Music Of The Night." Crawford performs several songs from "Phantom of the Opera" including a really nice duet. In addition he sings several Christian songs and a few more secular songs, all in good voice. The second half of this concert was far better than the first half, IMO.The man has a tremendous voice so no matter what song you hear, it's done well.
harry-76
What's Michael Crawford got that many of us would like to have? In this 1998 concert Crawford gives an intriguing performance, starting off with a standing audience ovation after his very first number.The first time I became aware of this performer was his Cornelius Hackl in the film version of "Hello, Dolly." I recall rather wondering how he managed to get cast, as he sang the lovely "It Only Takes a Moment" in the park scene. It was certainly not a beautiful voice I was hearing--somewhat raspy, a bit unfocused, and ordinary. I attributed its effectiveness to an extension of his well- played Cornelius character, but I was not at all impressed with his natural vocal instrument. Now, thirty years later he appears in this vocal concert, with full orchestra, chorus, splashy lighting and theatrical effects. Since the 1969 film he's won numerous awards and gained a devoted following from his famous original title role in "Phantom of the Opera."The voice has gained some strength and control, yet it's basically the same instrument heard back in the late 60s. What he does appear to have is an astute sense of theatre, timing, keen ear, and other attributes of professionalism.He also sings with his whole heart, and puts everything he's possibly got into the moment. His fervent desire to communicate enhances his diction and projection, and he obviously loves his craft.The audience responds lovingly and enthusiastically to a well-conceived format and "package." Perhaps his basic "ordinary" instrument is in tune with these times of electronic enhancement; perhaps there's something here that's not overwhelming--a kind of kid-next-door up there making good.
Whatver the case, this performer is making the most of what he's been given to work with. All one can say is, more power, Mr. Crawford.
Monika-5
Michael Crawford, as well as being an amazing singer, is also full of charisma and enthusiasm, as evidenced in this wonderful concert! He sings all sorts of show tunes (including Phantom of the Opera, of course) as well as inspirational, gospel and mainstream pop songs. Try to catch this special if PBS ever reruns it. It truly is "special"!
sngbrd39
I saw this special when it was broadcast on PBS. All I have to say after seeing it is that Michael Crawford has one of the most entrancing tenor voices I have ever heard. Seeing the special really made me wish that I could have seen "Phantom of the Opera" on Broadway with him as the Phantom. His selections from that musical sounded heavenly. His other selections, especially the Irish music, were also beautiful. I only wish my local video store had this in stock so I could rent it sometime.
