Based on Steven Sondheim’s Broadway musical, Sweeny Todd is a relentless tale of revenge as we see a barber slash through patrons until he gets to Judge Turpin, the man who put the falsely accused Sweeney behind bars. Did I also mention that the remains of the fallen are served to the public in the form of Mrs. Lovett’s delectable meat pies? I thought not. Anyway, as you may have guessed, Depp does the honors as Sweeney in this wonderful production that Burton can file away in the “eccentric genius” folder.
If there ever were a film specifically designed for Burton, it would be Sweeny Todd and he most assuredly delivers. In Sweeny, Burton expands on his phantasmagorical dynamic created in Sleepy Hollow and creates a wonderfully visceral and nuanced viewing experience. What is truly mind-boggling is that we can see Burton’s growth as he pushes the stylistic latitudes in Sweeny. Just as he used the base visual in Sleepy Hollow, he surprises us with astonishing contrast that is reminiscent of the enigmatic Edward Scissorhands. Specifically, Burton uses one dream sequence, where Mrs. Lovett (Carter) dreams of a better life, to destroy all equilibrium and knock the audience completely off-kilter. The direction is sublime and the players involved allow the film to transcend, led namely by incomparable Johnny Depp.
The film offers a high pedigree in the acting department with the likes of Alan Rickman, Carter, and Depp, but the make or break point was to be the vocals. As it turns out, Burton’s casting could not have been more perfect and what was perceived as a possible crutch becomes a strength. The near flawless performances exist from top to bottom as we even see an incredible effort from the 14 year old Ed Sanders in the role of Toby. But ultimately, it all comes down to Depp. The tone and range of his voice is surprising and quickly dispels any questions in his ability. You will be hard pressed to find another actor to match his versatility. Depp becomes Sweeney and will have audiences across the world fearing the question: 'Ow ‘bout a shave?