Note: Every once in a while, Infuzemag.com will provide a second opinion on a noteworthy movie. This time around, Josh and Emily Pardy (or "Team Pardy" as we call 'em around here) have offered their own take on Tim Burton's interpretation of the Stephen Sondheim musical, Sweeney Todd. Enjoy! -- Ed.

 

The dark, dynamic duo has done it again! Sweeny Todd is the highly anticipated film spawned from the collaborative genius of director Tim Burton and Johnny Depp. Taking on the macabre musical originally created by Stephen Sondheim, this truly legendary tale takes on a whole new life. Thanks to this re-envisioning of the story, the viewer doesn't have to be familiar with either the Broadway production or the English legend in order to enjoy this adaptation to the silver screen.

The story is simple enough to follow: Sweeny Todd (Depp), formerly the barber Benjamin Barker, has returned to London a wronged man after serving a 15-year sentence for a crime he didn't do. The man responsible, the corrupt Judge Turpin (Alan Rickman), engineered Barker's demise because Turpin craved his beautiful wife. With nothing left to live for, Todd seeks vengeance against Judge Turpin. With the help of poverty-row baker Mrs. Lovett (Helena Bonham Carter), Todd quickly resumes his occupation, enabling him to come razor-close to those he seeks revenge against.

Brilliantly paced, the almost-entirely sung dialogue only helps to enhance the film's humor and its clever characterizations. Managing to evoke Sondheim's difficult and quirky lyrics, each actor shows that singing is a comfortable part of his or her repertoire. And the songs are truly something special, giving dimension to the characters, carrying much of the story's intensity, and serving as the plot's primary engine.

The chemistry between Depp and Bonham Carter is undeniable, owing no doubt to their chemistry with director Burton, their frequent collaborator (Depp on film, Bonham Carter in real life -- she's the mother of Burton's children). Their harmony on screen transcends even the music.

The supporting cast is no less talented, including the surprising (but perfectly cast) Sacha Baron Cohen as a traveling "Italian" barber and miracle elixir salesman. Rickman also showcases his vocal talent, proving yet again that he adds new layers of complexity to every role.

Of course, the main character of Burton's film isn't played by a SAG member. Blood, along with the pearl handled straight razors that spill it, play a prominent role throughout the film, and Burton gives the red river ample screen time and space. If there were ever a musical deserving of an R rating, this is it. Be forewarned: Although imaginative and creatively tasteful, this horrific tale is brutal and bloody.

Burton's vision has only grown more refined with each warped story he tells. Nineteenth-century London has never been grayer or creepier. His shadowy shooting creates a sinister setting which complements the famously spooky soundtrack.  

Full of wit and violence, Sweeny Todd offers a tragic and diabolical escape with unforgettable music and award-worthy performances (the film has already been nominated for multiple Golden Globes). If you can withstand the blood and brutality, all in all, it's worth risking your neck to make an appointment with Sweeney Todd.  
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