"Sweeney Todd" *** 1\2 (out of ****)There seems to be such a fascination with the Sweeney Todd story. There have been, according to my memory, at least 5 film adaptations of the story. There was one in 1926, 1928, 1936, a TV movie starring Ben Kingsley and now Tim Burton's adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's musical.
I've always been somewhat apprehensive about Burton's work. Some of his early work, like "BeetleJuice" or "Batman" didn't interest me very much. His "Sleepy Hollow" had some good visuals and production value but little else to recommend. It wasn't until the release of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" I started to look at Burton differently. I found that film to be endlessly creative. Now, I stand corrected. "Sweeney Todd" may be Burton's best film. It has a dark twisted worldview, laced with black humor and sheer visual beauty.
In the early moments of "Sweeney Todd" the production value and Burton's rapid moving camera overtake us. There are times when the viewer feels as if they are right there on Fleet Street. You can smell the air and feel your feet on the pavement.
Just about every film making decision Burton makes is correct. His choice of casting is truly inspired. Who could have been better than Johnny Depp in the title role? Or Helena Bonham Carter as Mrs. Lovett? For years producers and directors have wanted to turn Sondheim's musical into a film. Names floated around such as Harrison Ford or Robert Redford in the lead. Neither one of these men have the diabolical charm Depp possesses. As for Carter, she simply looks the part. She fits right in the nightmare vision Burton has created. She has a Gothic look to her.
"Sweeney Todd" is the kind of story Edgar Allan Poe would be proud of. Todd returns to London, after being in prison for 15 years after a judge, Turpin (Alan Rickman), who had eyes for Todd's wife, has his framed, so he could attempt to win her over. Todd, not knowing if his wife and child, Johanna (Jayne Wisener) are still alive has sought revenge against Judge Turpin and one of his cronies Beadle Bamford (Timothy Spall).
Todd eventually eventually learns his daughter is alive but is informed by Mrs. Lovett (Carter) his wife is dead. So the two join a partnership. He kills innocent people, while she uses them to make her "meat" pies.
Burton treats the film as realistically as possible. And it shows on-screen. The actors treat the situations as if they are performing Shakespeare. The film even has a realistic look to it. The color tones seem to be predominantly grey (I can't say for certain since I am partially color-blind). But it has drearily hue to it.
Lots of viewer may complain there is too much violence. The body count reaches 12. But, walking into a film such as this, it could be assumed one knows what they are getting into it. And, if not, you have just been informed here.
The only complaint I can offer against the film is Depp's accent. At times it reminded me of Capt. Jack Sparrow. Other than that I have nothing to say except praises. What a pity the film wasn't showered with much Oscar nominations. Where was the "Best Picture", "Best Director", "Best Supporting Actor (Rickman), "Best Art Design" and "Best Costume" nominations. Luckily Depp was nominated but lost to Daniel-Day Lewis for "There Will Be Blood".
In the end though "Sweeney Todd" is a bloody good time (sorry I couldn't resist)!
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