Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street- Review

Not usually one for musicals, I was purely blown away by the artistry, presentation and unorthodox themes of this film adaptation of the original 1979 musical under the same name. Sweeney Todd is a gloomy, sublime and dark masterpiece directed by the artfully twisted Tim Burton and features the astounding performances of Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter and Alan Rickman.

The pure beauty of this film cannot be expressed. It has been so carefully crafted and every detail is catered for. The cinematography is so crisp that it could be fashioned into a sculpture in an art gallery and adored by millions. The gothic buildings and colours really represent the period it was set in and really meets the ideas of what London looked like in the 1800s. These elements really make for a pleasurable viewing and are guaranteed to leave you admiring everything about this film.

The performances: Despite a few reviews that state a lack of appreciation for Johnny Depp's vocal abilities and not meeting the "standard of talent present in other musicals", he really was a fitting actor for this role and his singing was just brilliant. Goosebumps formed on my arms every time he opened his mouth and held a note in the best way possible and left a lasting impression on just how much of a jack-of-all-trades he really is. Actor, director, producer and musician...world domination next? Out of all the roles he has played, this has to be one of my favourites.

Helena Bonham Carter is a timeless woman and is no stranger to theatre and musical-based films. I enjoyed her role the most as she is always a treat to see. Armed with haunting vocals and a twister of a personality, she makes the role of Mrs. Lovett one that everyone can enjoy. When she first started singing, I felt as though I was having an out of body experience. I could listen to her sing all day and never grow tired. In an indescribable way, she is most relatable. Anyone familiar with feelings of unrequited love and longing will take pity on her character but take her as she is and love her all the same.

A bit of a Harry Potter gathering here I found, not only did we have Helena, but we were also given Alan Rickman and Timothy Spall. Elegantly is one word to describe Alan's performance in this film. Like the upper class man he is, he never once faltered and he too was graced with a voice. Providing baritone to bass vocals, he equally made his part memorable and enjoyable. While his character was to be hated, it was still one that could be appreciated and tasteful. It still saddens me that he is no longer alive but what a gift it is to have him appear in this film upon many on his length resume of films.

The only con apparent in this film is the use of blood. It wasn't as realistic as I expected it to be but perhaps that is all part of the general presentation. I'll believe that it was made to be theatrical and exaggerated as this musical is far different from any other I've seen.

Depending on the viewer, musicals can have a give or take reaction. Some fancy them and others do not. Thankfully, this film had both dialogue and appropriate times to break out into song. Musicals that do not balance this are less popular with me but being able to get a story out of both conventions simultaneously was marvellous and I commend Tim Burton on such construction.

Beautiful, shocking and deliciously creative, I HIGHLY recommend this film.

Score: 10/10.