Universal is singing a dark song this Friday after announcing a Phantom of the Opera adaptation based on the novel by Gaston Leroux. The deal includes a spec script written by John Fusco, producers Harry Mason Jr of Harvey Mason Media, and John Legend through his Get Lifted Film Company producing partner Mike Jackson.
Set in contemporary New Orleans, Fusco got the idea for his treatment after getting reacquainted with the French Quarter music scene, where he got his start. First published as a serial in Le Gaulois from September 23, 1909, to January 8, 1910, the classic story revolves around a mad, disfigured composer who becomes infatuated with an up-and-coming opera singer.
“I was in New Orleans with Costner, Woody, and John Lee Hancock and found myself reconnecting with my old musical haunts, and the next generation of my music cronies,” Fusco told Deadline. “I began playing with them again, writing music and recorded two albums and during the pandemic, I reflected on that journey and wanted to bring the screenwriting together with the songwriting and that music with a full-out movie musical.”
The material from Leroux’s novel is now considered public domain and has been adapted for the silver screen several times. The Phantom of the Opera is also the subject of a Tony Award-winning musical arranged by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
“This is set in the sultry nightlife scene of modern-day New Orleans, the world of jazz, R&B, neo-Soul, and funk,” Fusco said. “The French Quarter, where New Orleans is not only known as America’s most haunted city, but the music, French Creole culture, the voodoo mystique, masquerade pageantry of Mardi Gras, just lent itself to a natural adaptation of the Paris setting, and a story that has revenge, unrequited love, and mystery.”
Haunted? Voodoo mystique? Masquerade pageantry? You’re speaking my language, Mr. Fusco. I’m loving this bold and refreshing take for a new Phantom of the Opera adaptation. After all, who wants to see the same crusty story told time and again when a new setting, culture, and musical influence can bring so much to the concept? I’m not even into musicals but now I’m dying to see this.
Fusco also told Deadline that he’s thrilled to be working with Mason Jr (Dreamgirls, Pitch Perfect, Respect) and Legend and Jackson on Phantom of the Opera. Everyone involved in this project is known for bringing something unique and engaging to the musical medium, and with Universal footing the bill, this could be a spectacle on par with films like West Side Story, In the Heights, and Chicago. I say bring it on, and please take full advantage of the New Orleans setting.