Why is the monkey important?

Timestamps:
1:40 - A Collector's Piece's History
2:59 - The Lair
4:22 - Truth and Fantasy
6:32 - Maskless at the Party
9:41 - Face-to-Face
12:35 - Christine's Redemption
13:41 - Guide and Guardian
15:26 - Darkness' Warmth
16:24 - The Human Exposed
This is a very interesting dive into what the music box symbolizes, and the part it plays in bringing the world of Christine and Phantom to life for us. I was definitely in the camp of "what has this monkey got to do with Christine at all?" before my curiosity got the better of me, and I started diving into footage and meditating upon what could really be happening for our protagonist during her transformation, and how she would have fixated on lot 665 as a pivotal piece to the redemption which took place under the Opera House. Raoul, I think, regrettably would be left behind in the significance it has to play; the lonliness, deep emotionality and artistic soul that Phantom and Christine instantly recognize in each other attracts them both like magnets, but the monkey tells her the only way out, is actually in... it might only be because of that music box Raoul even lives to old age at all...! Honestly, while I set out to make this video to learn more about Lot 665 I realized halfway through I learned way more about Christine on the journey than anything else. I can appreciate her character's depth and maturity much more now than from any particular portrayal.
What do you think, grasping at straws; or is there something really special about this wise little monkey character?
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#phantomoftheopera #monkey #musicalbox #lot665 #phantom

[@pleisha]

I remeber the first time I saw the movie (my first interaction with the Phantom) and I was very close to crying in scenes like the "All I ask of you" reprise and the kss between Christine and Erik, but the part that managed to break me down was that little moment with him crying while singing to the music box, he reminded me of a child finding comfort and solace on his favourite toy. And God, it hurted like hell, a man with the heart of a boy, broken and yearning for love, it had me sobbing in seconds and wishing to hug him, I still cry everytime I hear the music box's melody, I wish to buy a music box like that someday. Thank you for the wonderful video.

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

He’s a wonderful entity we can grow to compassion for, and from there, put the people we know in his place. So many are rejected and all humans require and desire love!! Thanks for leaving a note.

[@Shiltz]

I've watched different versions of the musical many times so I'm quite densensitised to these scenes, but the one with him singing Masquerade does make me cry to this day. If you've watched the 25th anniversary version of the finale, Erik (Ramin Karimloo) actually copies the motion of the monkey whilst singing it and that really got me!

[@ignaciomayorgaalzate5338]

Likewise. I still remember that scene after almost 20 years.

[@J.C.T-bh9gt]

I agree. Phantom was the first musical I ever watched and it inspired my voice funny enough and it holds a very special place in my heart and I don’t know why but watching this video especially towards the end had me tearing up, beautiful video ❤😢

[@josephst.george7841]

I always saw it as his “teddy bear”

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I can see that!

[@xxXPureInnocenceXxx]

The monkey has always struck me as so odd. Like, I knew it was important, just couldn’t understand why. Thank you for making this! It really helped me put the pieces together.

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I'm so glad it helped you develop your thoughts! Folks like you are the reason I make these videos!!

[@sweetpeaon3]

This is one of those video essays that I am absolutely fortunate to watch, because without any context I was able to infer from the title "Oh yeah, the monkey from Phantom. Why _is_ it important again?". This is incredibly detailed and I love how this is unapologetically for Phantom fans who have memorized every piece of this story. Thank you so much!!

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I'm honored you enjoyed it so much! Yes, as one of those ravenous fans myself, I really wanted my channel to be a place for "us" to deep-dive properly and unapologetically!! Thanks for dropping a note! More videos on the way...

[@l.n.3372]

Interesting video. I've always been intrigued about the monkey music box, too. For the record tho, the chandelier is mentioned far more often in dialogue and song lyrics than you had acknowledged, BTW. Off the top of my head: A) obviously it's mentioned during the auction lol B) Phantom during poor fool, he makes me laugh: behold! She (Carlotta) is singing to bring down the chandelier! C) Managers during masquerade: to a prosperous new year! To our new chandelier! D) Phantom during why so silent: remember there are worse things than a shattered chandelier! E) Managers during Notes 2: not another chandelier ... Look my friend what we have here ... That's at least 5 times.

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

That's a great point thank you very much for your critique!

[@maisiebrooks6254]

phantom has been my niche little fixation for the past 2 years since i rediscovered in lockdown. was fascinated with it as a kid even though i didn’t completely understand it it used to make me cry because i was so moved. have watched it so many times and yet the mannequin christine collapsing out of the mirror still managed to make me jump lol

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I rediscovered it after a years-long hiatus over lockdown as well... an old friend was wearing a Phantom hoodie, and it reinvigorated everything for me... revisiting it as an adult I saw so much more in it!! Welcome back to the magic.

[@christiannightshade5886]

Great video! The monkey creeps me out still, it's like each time the music plays he might be lurking around, hiding nearby

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Very glad you enjoyed thank you!

[@litzyeh1786]

the thing is LOVE NEVER DIES ruins everything

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Sure does… On my to-do list!

[@jpmcft3194]

Think of it as the canonical Christine Daaé being invited by someone important to do a “fanfic” adaptation as part of her musical career. After the show, she goes home to Raoul and their children, and life continues.

[@myles2168]

I received one of these monkeys for my birthday. I cried when I opened it. I play it every night. Masquerade 🎶🎵🎶🎵

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

A great gift!

[@josephcook6442]

Goddammit that second kiss in the lair always hits hard

[@tygrtales6319]

I got distracted by how beautiful this rendition of the soundtrack is😂

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Right??

[@alysonk1142]

this video and your channel are incredible! I think this show has so much more depth than a lot of people give it credit for. It's so great to see someone analyze this show so closely and connect some of the dots in it because I'm obsessed with its subtext and all of the little details like this one. everywhere you look in this show, if you look hard enough, I feel like there's always something going on beneath what's really happening that connects to the deeper themes and the story that it's telling. really cool stuff, keep it up!

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Exactly why I love it too! I'm so glad you found my channel! If you ever find something I haven't touched on you'd like to see a video about, feel free to email me or DM me on instagram, always looking for those ponderous peers! I have more videos on the way, just a very slow process!

[@ygnit5793]

Found your channel today while in yet another grip of my Phantom obsession. I fully intend to watch every single of your videos in a row. Just wanted to say, thank you for all the content, you're truly one of a kind creator 🖤

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Don’t know how I missed this comment. Thank you very much, eventually there will be more. 🖤

[@katrienvandenheuvel2398]

This video is ridiculously beautiful. I am watching this during a break at work and I need to try to hold me from crying!

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

That's such a touching comment, thanks so much for sharing with me!

[@jaclynwild]

Excellent presentation!! I love the detail and depth you offer on this subject. ❤️

[@JayJayJackson]

I appreciate this willingness to look deeper into things you question. I learned to do that the hard way. I think when I was young, I was very arrogant, but I’ve worked on several films, and after being in NYC for 40 years, I’ve met some people in the theater, notably the Nederlanders in the 90s and a few fairly high level actors, directors, and technical people… and I can tell you many of these people are intelligent on a level you rarely find. That’s not to say they don’t make mistakes, but when they do something they have a reason for it, a rationale. Trying to understand that is a hell of a lot more rewarding than just thinking something you don’t understand is dumb. I love creative peoples’ thought processes and gaining insights from others informs my own.

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Hey guys, my channel is demonetized because of my use of ALW's music for my videos! Of course it wouldn't feel right without using it, so I've made a Ko-fi account where you guys can drop me a few pennies (enough for a coffee!) if you're feeling generous to support my work! Thank you! ko-fi.com/pryingpandora ☕💖

[@thehappydaydream4043]

I'm so glad I happened upon this video that led me to the rest of your channel! I've always loved the musical but some of the things in it I didn't understand, but your videos do such a wonderful job of explaining them! I love these videos!!!

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

It's my pleasure, my channel was made for you! Thank you for dropping a note!!

[@dearone5000]

THAT WAS SO GOOD

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Honored you thought so! More to come, stay posted!

[@thatequine-trovert6956]

@Prying Pandora Productions . Speaking of Don Juan (probably spelled that wrong) in Susan Kay’s book she mentions that the Phantom’s master called him Don Juan as a taunt so I think it truly is about his life

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I haven’t finished Kay’s book, I really love her thoughtfulness and research to bring his backstory (from the musical) to life, so far, however! Thanks for the note.

[@JillValentine136]

This is such a good video om

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for dropping a note for me. Happy New Year!

[@MJ69ism]

Brava, beautiful work here well done

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Thank you so much!

[@MJ69ism]

@@pryingpandoraproductions your very welcome my love, you have so much depth and knowledge of the arts & you have the skills of a true analytical critic, I would submit your work to playbill or Stage, your really gifted, I’d love to work with you one day. 👏🏽🫶🏽👸🏼

[@ellafischbachbrock2352]

This is so deep oh my gosh

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it.

[@sundus928]

I'm crying 😭that was so good! Your videos are really informative. I'm an aspiring artist and would love to draw POTO art inspired by this. Thanks.

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Find me on Instagram @pryingpandoraproductions if you do, I’d love to see!

[@GhostOwly]

great vid, i hope your channel grows

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Thank you! I wish I had more time to dedicate to it…

[@jameswilson3370]

This is beyond brilliant. Thank you!

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I'm honored, thank you!

[@mikeyfrederick1232]

Really enjoying your content..interesting and well published..you can tell the amount of work you put into your videos...it shows...

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I'm honored, thank you very much for taking the time to leave a note for me.

[@j4k_11]

wait why did Phantom put the Monkey by Christine when she was asleep? Why does he have it? Doesn’t it represent what he tries to hide with his mask and music?

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Good questions, what are your theories?

[@luaatefi]

wonderful! please do more! I am in love with the background music, where can i find it?

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

There's more on the way at some point! I promise! For this one I used "Phantasia", and Hayley Westenra's "Dark Waltz" instrumental.

[@cutephantomJCAGdoll]

Excellent video!

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Thank you!

[@thegrandestbazaar4800]

Extremely good

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Thank you very much

[@nx_boof611]

The monkeys name is Paul and I find that so funny 💀💀💀💀

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Hah, didn't know that!... I wonder if that's a Jimmy Neutron reference...

[@johnsheehan7215]

Maybe you know this already if you don't I'm informing you. But What happened after the event is that Christine got pregnant with the phantoms child. Though the phantom mysteriously disappeared before she could tell him. Also that Raoul became a drunk a gambler and an ass. he wasn't as pleasant when he was first seen during the first event. Andrew Lloyd Webber did a spin-off continueism of the story of The phantom of the Opera. In a new film called Love never dies which also shows how Christine originally initially died. No one exactly knew the circumstances of Christine's death in the victim of the Opera. But it was clearly sound in Love never dies near the end of Love never dies.

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

There will be a breakdown on it eventually.

[@matthewmastrobuono582]

Oh wait so the drunk raoul and Christine with phantoms son is actually in the book? I’ve meant to read the book for years but takes me so long to read. I am not a fluent reader. I struggle to comprehend. Have to reread sections. Been thinking of doing an audio book version if it exists.

[@thefonzkiss]

Teach your grandma how to suck eggs.

[@Greg_Romford]

1:53 Correction - The chandelier is mentioned more than once: Prologue: Lot 666, a CHANDELIER in pieces/ It is believed that this is the very CHANDELIER which figured in the famous disaster. Act 1 Scene 7 (Il Muto): Behold she is singing to bring down the CHANDELIER Act II / Scene 1 (Masquerade): To the new CHANDELIER / Remember there are worse things than a shattered CHANDELIER Act II / Scene 2 (Managers Office): Not another CHANDELIER? I make that 6 mentions...

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Inside a song. :)

[@Greg_Romford]

@@pryingpandoraproductions all in the libretto. Are you saying that inside a 'song' gives the word more relevance? Both 'masquerade' , 'why so silent' and Act II 'Notes' are musical numbers? I have the full score in front of me...

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

@@Greg_Romford Sure, I suppose that was my reasoning behind the distinction! I appreciate how thorough you are, however.

[@Greg_Romford]

@@pryingpandoraproductions well I am autistic so these little details do matter to me. Other than that (as a long standing Phan) I do enjoy the videos you produce. Thank you.x

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

@@Greg_Romford It's no problem! The little details are really important, and I appreciate you looking out for them. Keep it up, and thanks for dropping a note!

[@fiercearmadillo6850]

At 13:51 - that painting! I think I recognise it from an illustrated edition I had as a little girl? Who is the artist? Which is the book? I MUST find it again...

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

Greg Hildebrandt - The Dancer's Dismay

[@christinedaae7323]

Oh! So the Monkey Music Box isn’t The Phantom’s Prop? It’s actually Christine’s Prop?

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

That's my theory anyway!

[@christinedaae7323]

But, that doesn’t make any sense. Because, The Monkey Music Box was in The Phantom’s Lair to begin with. Right?

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

@@christinedaae7323 Well that's what my video is about! :)

[@christinedaae7323]

The Angel of Music doesn’t like people talking about his personal stuff. The Monkey Music Box belongs to The Angel of Music. It was given to him by Madame Giry.

[@chrisholiday775]

DREAM!

[@josephsecker402]

Who are the Phantom and Christine on the stage?

[@pryingpandoraproductions]

I need a time stamp to help you :)

[@iainhenderson4065]

Sienna Bogess and Ramin Kirmaloo

[@jws1948ja]

The movie was much better than than the play.