The Phantom (1996)

About The Phantom

The Phantom is a 1996 American superhero film, which is directed by Simon Wincer. It is based on Lee Falk's comic strip The Phantom. The film’s plot revolves around a seemingly immortality figure known as the Phantom who fights against the evil forces to prevent them from obtaining a mystic artefact that will give them vast power.

Making / Production

The film was shot in various locations including Thailand, California, Los Angeles and Australia. Robert Evans who was the producer of this film, got the rights of the comic strip The Phantom after the success of Batman and tried to emulate its success. The screenplay was done by Jeffrey Boam.

Actors

• Billy Zane as The Phantom / Kit Walker: Billy plays the protagonist who strives to protect the world from evil. His performance was noted for its loyalty to the heroic character and adventure-based persona.
• Kristy Swanson as Diana Palmer: Kristy portrays Diana as a determined investigative reporter who aids The Phantom in his missions.
• Treat Williams as Xander Drax: Williams plays the villain calmy and menacingly, always on the hunt for the Skulls of Touganda.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film draws many elements from two of The Phantom stories, "The Singh Brotherhood" and "The Sky Band."
• In the comic, the Phantom's eyes were drawn as white without pupils when he wore his mask, which was replicated in the film by having Billy Zane wear special contact lenses.
• The Phantom's horse, named Hero, was played by five different horses during the course of filming.

Quotes

• "In case you haven't noticed, Singh, the world has moved on" –The Phantom / Kit Walker.
• "Every man has a destiny. Here’s mine." –Xander Drax.
• "Don't be afraid. That's just the jungle making itself...I'm always here." –The Phantom.

Music - Soundtrack

• "The Phantom" composed by David Newman
• "The Rope Bridge" composed by David Newman
• "The Skulls" composed by David Newman