I love the Phantom, but not enough to ever remember his name...
He is the greatest because he is the underdog and we all connect with the underdog because well...we all are the underdog. The pain that he goes through is so vast that hearts just reach out to him. Than when he gets what he wants, even after only a glimpse. He gives it back.
I have seen the movie, who hasn't? I have seen in on theater in london...got crummy seats, was literally sitting on the armrest the full time with the little overpriced binoculars glued to my face.
I really love the masquerade scene. I think a lot of people do. the lines
"hide your face so the world will never find you" is very provoking.