The Phantom of the Opera – 18 Cinema Lane

2025 has been a strange year for 18 Cinema Lane. That’s because most of the movies I’ve seen and/or reviewed this year have been ok or fine. After seeing so few good or bad films in 2025, I wasn’t able to create separate top ten best and worst movies lists like in years past. So, instead, I wrote a combined list where I discuss the movies I saw this year that I liked and didn’t like. What’s also different about this year’s end of year list is how there are no Honorable Mentions, due to how few good movies I saw in 2025. But there are two Dishonorable Mentions; Recipe for Murder and Black Bag. The only reason why these films are considered Dishonorable Mentions is because I DNFed (did not finished) both of them. For this year’s list, I will start talking about 2025’s worst movies then end the list by talking about 2025’s best movies. If I reviewed any of the movies on my list, I will provide a link to those reviews.

Worst Movies I Saw in 2025

7. Stalked by My Amish Boyfriend

Lifetime movies, like Hallmark movies, are not created equally. The 2024 film, Stalked by My Amish Boyfriend, is just one example of this statement. While it was interesting to see and hear how information about Amish culture was woven into the story, that part of the script couldn’t overshadow the major flaws of the movie. I was frustrated by how some characters would make dumb decisions simply for the sake of making dumb decisions. Stalked by My Amish Boyfriend was also, in my opinion, a mostly forgettable film. This is the reason why the 2024 picture is at the bottom of my list.

6. She Wore a Yellow Ribbon

As I said in my review of She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, I expected the 1949 movie to be an action-packed, suspenseful, and even intriguing story. What I got instead was an underwhelming film that prioritized presentation over product. I praised She Wore a Yellow Ribbon for its pretty looking scenery. But a photogenic background was unable to save the film from its weak script. A limited amount of action took away a lot of the story’s suspense and intrigue. It also doesn’t help how I only became familiar with most of the characters instead of truly getting to know them. She Wore a Yellow Ribbon is one of two movies I saw this year that almost made me fall asleep.

Take 3: She Wore a Yellow Ribbon Review

5. Kind Hearts and Coronets

Kind Hearts and Coronets is the second film I saw in 2025 that almost made me fall asleep. But the flaws in this movie greatly differ from She Wore a Yellow Ribbon’s emphasis on scenery over substance. Despite Kind Hearts and Coronets being classified as a “comedy”, I didn’t laugh at all while watching the film. I also had no idea what the story’s moral was supposed to be, due to the moral being treated as an afterthought. Like I said in my Kind Hearts and Coronets review, I’m not entirely sure what this movie was trying to say. That lack of clarity not only makes the movie underwhelming, it also makes the movie confusing.

Take 3: Kind Hearts and Coronets Review

4. Reality Bites: A Hannah Swensen Mystery

Having Reality Bites: A Hannah Swensen Mystery on my worst movies of the year list and finding Pie To Die For: A Hannah Swensen Mystery slightly better than its predecessor feels like déjà vu. That’s because One Bad Apple: A Hannah Swensen Mystery was placed on my worst of 2024 list, with its follow-up, A Sprinkle of Deceit: A Hannah Swensen Mystery, being slightly better. Though Reality Bites: A Hannah Swensen Mystery had its own set of flaws. Forced humor felt straight out of a sit-com, especially when Delores was involved in the story. As I said in my review, I wondered why a laugh track was missing. Both of the film’s mysteries contained such a small sense of urgency, the run-time felt a bit drawn-out. The story’s overall intrigue was weaker due to this flaw. If the Murder, She Baked/Hannah Swensen series continues in 2026, I’d like to see the quality become more consistent.

Take 3: Reality Bites: A Hannah Swensen Mystery Review

*Reality Bites: A Hannah Swensen Mystery* poster created by Hallmark Movies & Mysteries

3. Perry Mason: The Case of the Heartbroken Bride

Perry Mason: The Case of the Heartbroken Bride is the most disappointing movie I saw in 2025. There were so many missed creative opportunities in this story, the film itself was under-cooked and uninspired. The movie was sometimes boring because of the lack of urgency. Seeing Perry, Della, and even Kevin meanderingly take their time building a legal case sucked the energy out of the story. I said in my review how any movie series boasting over ten titles was going to have at least one “bad day at the office”. I also said in my review how Perry Mason: The Case of the Heartbroken Bride was one of those days for the fictional detective.

Take 3: Perry Mason: The Case of the Heartbroken Bride Review

2. My Gal Sunday

This 2014 movie is a perfect example of Hallmark putting the cart before the horse. Instead of creating a solid stand-alone film that could have naturally led to more chapters, the network put more effort into trying to build the foundation for a potential series. Parts of this story didn’t make sense. One glaring example is when an itinerary shows the protagonist couple’s plans of going dancing at 11 p.m. on Saturday then going to church at 8 a.m. on Sunday, begging the question of when these characters were supposed to go to sleep. The on-screen chemistry between Cameron Mathison and Rachel Blanchard made their characters, Henry and Sunday, feel less like a married couple and more like a couple who are about to start dating. It’s, honestly, a shame My Gal Sunday wasn’t a stronger picture. Mystery stories about married couples are uncommon from Hallmark, so this 2014 story could have offered something unique to the network’s table.

1. Mystery by the Book

This film actually has two titles; Mystery by the Book and Key to Love. However, I saw the movie on Great American Family under the title, Mystery by the Book. Therefore, I will be referring to that title for the sake of my list. For a movie with the word ‘mystery’ in the title, the story’s mystery is an afterthought, which makes the title itself very misleading. Instead, the characters develop other priorities, like playing dress-up and tapping glasses four times during one dinner date. Parts of the script don’t make sense, like how the protagonists find a treasured antique key. Mystery by the Book is even so bad, it’s, at times, unintentionally funny. A perfect example is when Corey Sevier’s character, Josh, is looking for a set of keys, only to find a set of keys seconds later on a key hook labeled “Keys”. Thank goodness Great American Family’s Ainsley McGregor Mysteries series is growing stronger in quality. But if the network wants to expand their mystery library, they have a long road ahead of them.

*Perry Mason: The Case of the Heartbroken Bride* poster created by Fred Silverman Company, Viacom Productions, Dean Hargrove Productions, National Broadcasting Company, and Viacom

Best Movies I Saw in 2025

**8. The Phantom of the Opera (1925)**

I’m still shocked by how the 1925 version of The Phantom of the Opera was never included on any of American Film Institute’s 100 movies lists, even months after I reviewed the film. Looking at everything the movie has to offer, I believe there is an argument to be made for its inclusion on, at least, one of those lists. Lon Chaney’s performance alone highlights how make-up, body language, and even the eyes can enhance an acting performance. Each area of the Opera House was presented through color coded film, which gave the movie a unique identity. What also helps 1925’s The Phantom of the Opera standout is how the cinematic lens showed the audience the expansive nature of storytelling. This is why, in my opinion, the story of the Phantom and his opera house is better suited for film than the stage.

Take 3: The Phantom of the Opera (1925) Review (Silent Pioneers Double Feature Part 2)

7. Fist of Fury

For an introduction to Bruce Lee’s filmography, I think Fist of Fury is a good one! The martial arts choreography was definitely one of the strengths of this film. But the movie contained other aspects I liked as well. Bruce’s portrayal of Chen is a reason why Fist of Fury was so memorable. Clever writing and higher stakes woven into the script create a story that was clever, suspenseful, and intriguing. Because of how much I enjoyed watching Fist of Fury, I hope to check out more of Bruce’s movies in 2026!

Take 3: Fist of Fury Review

6. The Chalk Garden

Even though I reviewed this film back in February, I still think about what Laurel said about not liking being told “good morning”. How well-written the dialogue was is one of the reasons why I remember Laurel saying, “what is a good morning to someone else is rarely a good morning to me”. Speaking of Laurel, Hayley Mills’ utilization of animated expressions and a variety of emotions helped the audience see how complex her character truly is. But Hayley is not the only actress whose performance was strong. The Chalk Garden is a movie where every actor and actress does a great job with the acting material they were given. The 1964 presentation is part character study, part mystery that works!

Take 3: The Chalk Garden Review + 505 Follower Thank You

5. The Night Before the Night Before Christmas

The Night Before the Night Before Christmas is another movie I saw (and reviewed) this year where it was difficult to choose a favorite acting performance. The strength of the cast’s acting abilities not only made watching the story unfold more enjoyable, it even helped characters become more likable. Emphasizing the theme of giving painted a portrait of Santa I hadn’t really thought of before; someone who has a reputation for giving. It was also a clever way to remind viewers of one of the Christmas season’s important components. How Christmas activities were included in the script was a breath of fresh air as well. As I said in my review, I wish Hallmark went back to creating titles that didn’t rely too much on a formula, tropes, and/or cliches.

Take 3: The Night Before the Night Before Christmas Review + 515 Follower Thank You

*The Chalk Garden* poster created by Quota Rentals Limited, Ross Hunter Productions, and Universal Pictures

**4. Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ (1925)**

It’s amazing how two movies on this year’s best films list not only turned 100 years old, they also utilized color coded film to their advantage! But what sets Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ apart from The Phantom of the Opera is how title cards went above and beyond in Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ due to how well-written they were. Another aspect that distinguishes Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ is the cinematography’s capturing of the scope of the film. Long and medium shots effectively showcased a world that looked and felt larger than life. The visual presentation of the movie was certainly impressive. However, Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ found a balance between style and substance!

Take 3: Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ (1925) Review

3. The Man Who Invented Christmas

Despite being the most recently reviewed movie on my list, The Man Who Invented Christmas is one of the best biopics I’ve ever seen! How the creation of A Christmas Carol lent itself to exploring Charles Dickens’ life story brought a unique element to the biopic genre. Watching Charles’ iconic tale come to live, literally and figuratively, provided the film a creative and memorable identity. The “Easter Eggs” related to A Christmas Carol sprinkled throughout the story was an engaging way to stay invested in the movie. The Man Who Invented Christmas is a solid Christmas title that would make a good double feature with I Heard the Bells.

Take 3: The Man Who Invented Christmas Review

2. The Wild Robot

I first talked about The Wild Robot in my list of The Top Ten Best Stand-Alone Films. Even though I published that list back in March, the 2024 animated movie has still held up as one of the best titles I saw this year! Like I said in The Top Ten Best Stand-Alone Films list, the animation was gorgeous, appearing as a blend of paintings and priceless photographs. A pleasant surprise was how much emotional depth the story contained. What adds a sense of timelessness to the production was the abundance of good messages and themes. While it’s too early to say how The Wild Robot will stand in the test of time, I think it has potential.

1. An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving

I actually revisited this film in preparation for my review of An Old Fashioned Christmas. Watching An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving again after so many years reminded me why I love this movie! Attention to detail and historical accuracy created the illusion of taking the audience to another time and place. How the messages and themes of the Thanksgiving holiday were woven into the story allow An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving to truly embrace the holiday itself. The more I think about the 2008 movie, it makes me surprised it wasn’t a Hallmark Hall of Fame presentation. My belief is due to An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving containing elements that would likely be found in a Hallmark Hall of Fame project, such as strong acting performances and a historical fiction lens.

*The Man Who Invented Christmas* poster created by The Mazur Kaplan Company, The Mob Film Company, Ingenious Media, Nelly Films, Parallel Films, Rhombus Media, and Bleecker Street Media

Have fun in 2026!

Sally Silverscreen

In my review of 1920’s The Garage, I admitted silent films are rarely covered on 18 Cinema Lane. Acknowledging the one hundredth anniversary of a movie is even rarer. This is a reason why I selected 1925’s The Phantom of the Opera for the Silent Pioneers Blogathon! But reviewing this film also presents a full circle moment for me. Before 2025, I had seen pieces of The Phantom of the Opera from 1925. That’s because those pieces are featured at the beginning of Phantom of the Megaplex (which happens to be celebrating its 25^th anniversary this year). As a fan of that movie, I felt I owed it to myself to finally check out the film that paved the way for countless cinematic projects. Though this is my first time seeing 1925’s The Phantom of the Opera in its entirety, I am familiar with its story. This is due to seeing parts of 2004’s adaptation of The Phantom of the Opera. So, without further delay, let’s start this review!

*The Phantom of the Opera* (1925) poster created by Universal Pictures

Things I liked about the film:

Color coded film: Silent films have a reputation for appearing in black and white. But in The Phantom of the Opera, only the Phantom’s lair is presented in this hue. This is because the Paris Opera House is color coded based on where a scene takes place. Outdoor scenes appear in blue. Scenes taking place backstage, and even a ballet performance, are presented in pink. The only scenes fully in color are those during the Bal Masque de l’Opera. Color coding the movie’s scenery gives each part of the story its own distinct significance. It definitely gives The Phantom of the Opera a unique identity!

The acting: When you think of 1925’s The Phantom of the Opera, you think of Lon Chaney. Though he spent the movie with his face covered by make-up or a mask, Lon utilized the use of his eyes and body language to give the Phantom emotion. During the Bal Masque de l’Opera, the Phantom discovers someone betrayed his trust. His eyes not only appear very wide, they even look pained. The Phantom falls back in his seat, emphasizing how shocked he is by the betrayal. Even though Lon stole the show, there are other performances I liked in The Phantom of the Opera! Mary Philbin portrays Christine Daae. Through a variety of acting techniques, Mary shows the audience what her character is thinking and feeling. A perfect example is when Christine meets the Phantom for the first time. Shocked by his appearance, she leans back against the wall, trying to move as far from him as possible. Christine’s eyes are wide and her jaw drops in horror, illustrating how unsettled she is by the Phantom.

The on-screen chemistry: As I just said in this review, Mary Philbin portrays Christine Daae. Throughout The Phantom of the Opera, Christine shares romantic feelings with Raoul, portrayed by Norman Kerry. When these characters shared moments together, their interactions were romantically tender. The love between Christine and Raoul feels like it radiates off the screen. Mary and Norman’s on-screen chemistry was very sweet, making their characters’ scenes together feel genuine. Their performances, as well as the screenwriting, made Raoul and Christine’s relationship one of the best parts of The Phantom of the Opera! I wish Mary and Norman shared more scenes together.

The Silent Pioneers Blogathon banner created by Maddy from Classic Film And TV Corner

What I didn’t like about the film:

Underutilized characters: There were a few underutilized characters in The Phantom of the Opera. Two of them are the new owners of the Opera House. At the beginning of the movie, the ownership of the Opera House changed hands. Not only are the new owners informed of the Phantom’s existence, they are presented with evidence he actually exists. Yet, these owners don’t do anything to remove the Phantom from the Opera House or protect their business from the Phantom. A major reason for this is how the characters were underutilized, making limited appearances throughout the story.

Little sense of urgency: Like I said in my review, the new owners of the Opera House don’t do anything to remove the Phantom from the Opera House or protect their business from the Phantom. Any time the Phantom makes threats to ruin the show or even when Christine disappeared, there was little sense of urgency to prevent the Phantom’s chaotic plans. The day after Christine went missing, there was a newspaper article written about her disappearance. But no search party was organized to look for her. Even Raoul’s suspicions don’t appear raised when he receives a mysterious note from Christine. When Christine returns at the Bal Masque de l’Opera, no one notices except for Raoul. With all this said, the Phantom doesn’t seem as big of a concern to the Opera House’s community as he should be.

Unanswered questions: For this part of my review, I will spoil The Phantom of the Opera. If you haven’t seen this film and are planning on watching it, skip ahead to the part of my review titled ‘My overall impression’.

The 1925 version of The Phantom of the Opera attempts to give the Phantom a backstory. But this attempt leaves the audience with more questions than answers. On a notecard addressing the Phantom’s history, it states he is a “master of Black Art”. This statement is never given an explanation, especially since the Phantom isn’t shown adopting magic or supernatural powers. The notecard also states the Phantom was “exiled to Devil’s Island for criminal insane” and that he “escaped”. No explanation is provided why he was taken to the island in the first place. Did the Phantom actually commit a crime or was he falsely accused, with taking over the Opera House and causing chaos his form of revenge? These are two examples of unanswered questions in The Phantom of the Opera.

String of musical notes image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/pentagram-vector_710290.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a> <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by Freepik</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

My overall impression:

1925’s The Phantom of the Opera is considered a classic, not just from the Silent Film Era, but within film history. So, imagine my shock when I discovered the movie was never included on any of American Film Institute’s 100 movies lists. When this film was first released, it brought something new to cinema’s table. The Phantom of the Opera paved the way when it came to the power of make-up. The 1925 picture also showed the world the expansive nature of storytelling through a cinematic lens. This is why, in my opinion, the story of the Phantom and his opera house is better suited for film than the stage. Lon Chaney is one of the most celebrated actors of all time. His role as the titular character proves why that statement holds true. Lon’s ability to transform into the Phantom makes his performance captivating. Beyond the make-up, he effectively uses his eyes and body language to bring emotion to his character. Though the film has its flaws, The Phantom of the Opera still holds up, even a hundred years later. Color coding for each area of the Opera House gave the production a unique identity, as well as distinct significance to these spaces. In a world where silent films are not as common as they once were, I’m thankful for the restoration efforts made for The Phantom of the Opera.

Overall score: 7.5-7.6 out of 10

Have you seen 1925’s The Phantom of the Opera? Which story do you wish had been adapted into a silent film? Let me know in the comment section below!

Have fun at the opera!