Review of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Here is another movie which I did not know what to expect from.  It is directed by Tim Burton, stars Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter, and is based on a very dark musical theatre production of the same name.  Musicals happen to be, in my opinion, one of the most underappreciated type of film made today.  Recently, both Moulon Rouge and Chicago have been extraordinarily well-written, directed and produced films with wonderful leading actors, ensemble casts and amazing songs.  Sweeney Todd is similar in its production and acting, though its macabre plot, humor and visuals may be off-putting to many.  I for one, enjoyed it thoroughly, and found the conclusion to be somber and appropriate, if a bit depressing.  The black and white make-up of the main characters was very effective in reinforcing the darkness in their souls.  Though the songs were not particularly memorable by melody (other than Johnny Depp's "I will have ven-geance..."), the music which was playing as the barber shop and meat pie business was getting off the ground was especially effective.  Carter seemed to have the most darkly humorous lines, though Johnny Depp had the stronger performance overall.  If he does not at least receive an Oscar nod for his performance, I will be very surprised.