Question 1

Which electronic music duo cites Phantom of the Paradise as their favorite film and artistic foundation?

Accepted Answer

Daft Punk called it "our favorite film, the foundation for a lot of what we're about artistically" and saw it over twenty times. Composer/actor Paul Williams later appeared on their album Random Access Memories.

Question 2

What real recording studio and custom synthesizer was used for Winslow Leach's electronic composition room?

Accepted Answer

The electronic room was The Record Plant studio, featuring the custom-built Moog synthesizer TONTO, which was used by T.O.N.T.O.'s Expanding Head Band and is now exhibited at Calgary's National Music Center.

Question 3

What dangerous real machine was used for Winslow Leach's disfigurement scene, and what safety issue occurred?

Accepted Answer

A real injection-molding press at an Ideal Toy Company plant was used. Despite foam pads and chocks to prevent full closure, the powerful machine crushed the chocks and nearly closed completely, forcing actor William Finley to pull his head out just in time.

Question 4

What in-joke occurs when Swan adjusts Winslow Leach's voice in the film?

Accepted Answer

When Swan announces the adjusted voice is "perfect," it's actually Paul Williams (who plays Swan) singing, not William Finley (who plays Winslow Leach).

Question 5

Which major film festivals and awards recognized Phantom of the Paradise in 1975?

Accepted Answer

The film was recognized at the Golden Globes, Academy Awards, and Writers Guild of America awards in 1975, and was also featured at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in 2024.

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Phantom of the Paradise

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