"There once was a barber and his beautiful wife..."
So begins a fairytale that quickly unravels itself into a searing nightmare filled with bloody razors and meat pies oozing with the flesh of human beings. Such a tale as this could only belong in the twisted miracle child of a movie created by Tim Burton.
Yes, friends, I finally got to see the infamous tale of Sweeney Todd on the big silver screen. My, what a fantastical trip this one was! I had picked up the book earlier, and was feeling confident that by only getting halfway through upon the time of viewing the movie, I could still understand key elements. So, I bet you are all wondering, "How did the movie go"? This little concoction of Burton's not only satisfies the pallet but whets your appetite for original sound scores (this time around they weren't lovingly meshed together by the god known as Danny Elfman) and stunning visual effects.
From beneath the squelching sounds of splattering blood and sputtering last breaths, I couldn't believe how delightful this take on the play and book was becoming! Mom wasn't really excited about the whole gore and cannibalism factor in it but, being a Depp fan as much as I am, she agreed to go. I had to, however, reach over and cover her eyes when the fast hand of Todd swiped his blade across his unsuspecting customers' necks.
Oh, and speaking of Depp- I know a ton of people either love the guy or loathe him. Whatever your pleasure or passion to hate the guy- a fan or not of his movies- you will love the movie anyway. He takes his character to a whole new level, tipping the scales of dementia and endearing passion for his forgotten loved ones. Helena herself dazzled with her wide eyed stare and lackadaisical attitude towards her unsightly meat pies.
The color and theme of the movie was wholly amazing! The real world took much to the effect with the color scheme as Corpse Bride had; swathed in shades of dusty browns, grays and blacks, the real world was as dull and listless as the dead. The past memories, flashbacks and daydreams shifting out of reality took a bright, cheery, somewhat psychedelic (in Burton terms) twist. These colors tended to play out nicely, emphasizing the bright shock of the crimson fluid as it squirt from the sinewy necks of the innocent or guilty.
The set design, period clothing, lighting and swooping camera angles that swung about the streets of London set the best backdrop one could imagine. The takes that Depp and Helena had on their individual characters were astounding! Only they, in my mind, could play their roles as respectfully and artfully, with precise skill and caring, as they did. In fact, Depp was only missing the hyena-like barking laugh that Todd had in the book; he had the squinting glare, the far away but dark, haunted and gaunt look about the eyes... He was perfect!
Normally I detest musicals (save for Nightmare Before Christmas, of course!), but this one I happily sat through with nary a complaint. Instead, I darkly giggled at the twisted lyrics that poured forth from the various actors with such emotion and passion. And as for Depp's singing? My, for a guy who doesn't sing at all he was fantastic! Helena was a perfect high note parallel compared to Depp's often times raspy, lower end of the spectrum. The two together weaved together such a melodious song that it made their dark deeds of murder seem less gruesome and cruel, taking on a lighter and more hilarious outlook on it.
Memorable moments abound. I have to say I cackled at a moment where Todd and Lovett (Helena) view a barber boasting of his wondrous potion, only to claim, in song, that... well, if you go see it, you'll understand why I found it so funny. Another moment was the finale! Not quite what you expect in the world of "and they lived happily ever after" but it was oh so satisfying to see it wrap up the way it did.
Should you go see it? Yes. If you're a Tim Burton fan, a Helena or Depp fan, or simply looking for something a little bit out of the ordinary and eccentric, then this is a must to see! I would not take kids to see this as one part of the movie sees Todd drenched in blood from head to toe, grinning manically as bodies slide down the chute to be ground up as meat paste. Not for the faint of heart (the blood splattering and squelching as it hits the camera could turn a few stomaches, as do the close ups on the slit jugulars).
Keep in mind that I read a majority of the book before I went, and I intend to finish it. By reading the book first, I got to witness the parallel coincidences and absolute differences between each version. It made for a much more enjoyable experience. I picked up a copy at my local Boarders, but I presume you can obtain one anywhere now that the movie is acclaimed and gathering raving reviews. If you wish not to delve into the pages of the book, immerse yourself on the history behind the stories and plays itself! The story, originally called "A string of pearls" is a much different take compared to the movie. The musicals adapted bits and pieces from the book and advanced it further. How it all began, though, is as interesting as the movie itself.
I must end with this little tidbit of musings: he first started out as a teen heartthrob, becoming a sisscor-handed lovable monster only to twist, later on, into a an occult book hunter, shifting to a man getting chased by imaginary bats whilst chasing the magic dragon. From claymation puppets to eyeless agents, from rascally pirates to an eccentric man worshiping Buster Keaton, Depp has proven that, once again, any character he takes on can not only move us but entertain countless for years to come.
Not only that, but besides acting, he can sing! Who knew?
heart Peace out, ya'll! heart
Imdb review: http://imdb.com/title/tt0408236/
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