Phantom of the Paradise
The rock opera film, which features horror and comedy, was released in 1974. William Finley, Paul Williams, and Jessica Harper star in leading roles. Songwriter Winslow Leach’s music is stolen by producer Swan who gives it to his band. He sneaks into Swan’s office and is arrested and given a life sentence after getting framed for drug dealing. He escapes and hides into the offices again where he is disfigured in an accident that also makes him lose his vocal ability.
Phantom Of The Paradise – 1974, Paul Williams, William Finley. Photo By Pressman-Williams/Kobal/Shutterstock
The film bombed at the box office and received poor reviews. However, its music received an Academy Award nomination for Original Song Score and Adaptation and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Score – Motion Picture. Current reviews are favorable, and the film has now reached cult status.