Das Phantom der Oper (1916)

From the very beginning, Erik, the builder of the opera house, equipped his venue with all kinds of ingenious mechanical devices. During its construction, he also made a secret passage that lets him reach his cellar vaults without being seen. Erik has built himself a second, secret life with an old opera regular who calls himself the Phantom. One day, the opera’s female star falls ill and is unable to perform. The Phantom then recommends a young, unknown artist named Christine to the opera director for the role of Marguerite. The director hires Christine, unaware that the young woman will become the obsession of the Phantom, whose face is disfigured and who has fallen hopelessly in love with the rising singer. Christine achieves great success, but this soon fuels Erik’s jealousy and possessiveness. One day, the Phantom abducts her and imprisons the singer in the cellar vaults known only to him, keeping her as his very own possession in the hope that she will return his love. Only Christine’s friend, with the help of a Persian, is able to free her. In the process, the Phantom meets his death.